SKILLS SUMMARY
Seasoned professional skilled at identifying proposal “targets” and developing effective proposal (technical and non-technical) proposal packages that align with the solicited expectations/services desired. Proven track record of generating client proposals for product/services generating over $50 million in revenue/funds.
Exceptional track record of developing marketing strategies for start-up/entrepreneurial companies. Alongside company executives facilitated discussions/planning regarding competitive analysis, customer segment selection, product positioning, etc. at both strategic and operational levels.
Experience in overseeing/developing marketing communication activities including branding, product launch marketing activities, sales training presentations/tools, executive presentations, public relations, advertising, white papers, trade shows, seminars and even collateral materials, market research, website design and content creation either directly or on an outsourced basis. Skilled at managing outsourced marketing functions/activities.
EXPERIENCE
Recent proposal development projects
Retained (2 years) by New York headquartered proposal writing consulting firm to assist in program and proposal development for clients in New York, Georgia, Alabama, Illinois, Arizona, New Mexico and Washington. Developed programs related to a variety of topics responding to RFPs across the country including several complex proposals over 200 pages each. In 18 months (working part time), submitted 26 federal/state responses to RFQs, RFIs, RFPs, etc. that were funded for approximately $36 million. Virtually managed administrative/research and support staff that assisted with researching, writing and submitting RFIs, RFQs, and RFPs for clients throughout the United States.
Retained by largest school district in the state to develop proposal/grant development office, identify potential funding sources/leads/opportunities, write proposal copy, manage multiple projects simultaneously, submit proposals to federal, state and private funders as well as develop district-wide proposal/support services for over 11,000 employees (over 5 years). Recently developed, wrote and submitted 11 proposals (25 pages plus) within three week time period.
Developed internal grant/proposal office policies/procedures. Wrote/developed boilerplate content and templates to be used in response to RFIs, RFQs, and RFPs.
Prepared proposal development schedules, identified needed personnel, delegated responsibilities and in many cases served as interim project director to drive project from conception to submission.
Work with district staff regarding “lessons learned” from previous proposal development efforts incorporating changes, as needed, into overall process, etc.
Create a variety of collateral (web, blogs, policy statements, layout standards, content minimums, etc.) to ensure consistency of message and clarity of content included in proposals.
Developed online training for employees regarding RFI, RFQ and RFP proposal submissions.
Successfully accomplished yearly $1 million dollar goal over past five years exceeding goal by between $500,000 - $750,000 yearly. In less than 5 years, successful proposal submissions have totaled almost $10 million.
Marketing related projects
Worked with Bill Lowe, known as “Father of the Computer,” to craft message for thin-client, virtual learning environment applications for sales team and potential investors. Performed research, identified relevant case studies and “explanation” pieces used to support concept to investors and potential clients. Developed investor materials including presentation scripts/supporting documents.
Developed sales material. Analyzed competitor positioning/messaging efforts. Identified customer/industry trends. Developed client-specific proposals.
Retained by two virtual education companies to consult regarding overall market/branding direction and internal/external communications plan/direction. Consulted with Executive Vice President of Marketing/Sales to formulate and implement communications/.marketing strategies and plans. Worked with PR Agency to develop appropriate branding strategy. Wrote/developed communications pieces such as brochures, trade show display materials, white papers, sales proposal materials, product descriptions, etc. Wrote/developed marketing materials, website content, sales pieces, press releases, internal informational memos/pieces and presentations to various constituencies. Recommended visual presentation strategy for communications pieces. Gathered and managed market research and identified future market opportunities.
Retained by Grammy nominated producer to consult regarding marketing/proposal development for start-up organization. Developed presentations for executives at several major corporations to seek funding and sponsorships. Developed national marketing plan identifying target market and potential grant funding for upcoming projects. Worked to refine product goals, develop proposal template, develop boilerplate content to consistently represent product, product sales pitch, etc. to be used as future template for moving the organization forward. Developed business specific proposals.
Working alongside partner, produced star-studded charity golf event for the Torii Hunter Project (Foundation). Duties included assisting with origination of project concept/idea; identification of market; pricing; branding/image development of event and future events; sales and marketing materials (online, media, printed); website development; advertising placement; distribution channel selection/placement; entertainment identification/negotiations; facility identification/coordination; media relations; press packets; onsite media coordination/communications; event implementation, etc. Event sold-out and hosted sports superstars such as David Ortiz, Derek Lee, Dustin Pedroia, Maury Wills, Andre Ethier, Harold Reynolds, Hazel Mae, etc.. The event, itself, was filmed by MLB Network and has been broadcast to an international audience.
Project management related projects
"Sensitive client" consultant/mentor assigned to work with clients to "rescue" projects. Worked with executives and mid-level managers to conduct needs analysis and align with professional development plans for employees. Worked with clients to write/develop curriculum for executives as well as frontline employees. Served as management mentor for selected clients.
Served as director, for 9 years, for state supported entity that worked directly with business and industry to analyze organizational management structure/efforts. Grew division to manage portfolio revenues of up to one million. Hired and managed over 100 part-time employees on a yearly basis delivering between 50-100 trainings/programs.
Served as project specialist working on projects for international mail order and retail company. Performed on-site research, coached managers and worked with technical subject matter experts to develop curriculum that could be used internally to train employees at all levels. Developed handouts, instructional materials and training “script.”
EDUCATION
M.S. Interdisciplinary Studies - Organizational Development, Eastern Washington University, Cheney, Washington.
B.A. Public Relations and Marketing, Whitworth College, Spokane, Washington.
CERTIFICATONS
Professional Training and Development Certificate, Eastern Washington University, Lifetime.
Arizona Community College Regular Teaching Certificate, Business/Marketing/Business Administration, State Board of Directors for Community Colleges of Arizona. Lifetime.