“L.E.A.D.” offers an informal structure to guide organizations to improve their fiscal/administrative policies and procedures

As a fiscal/administrative consultant, I work on-site in all types of organizations, whether they are funders (e.g., government agencies or foundations) or non-profit services providers. When consulting on-site with non-profit agencies, they may notice that I apply an informal structure to identify and resolve all manner of issues. This informal structure (or philosophy) is “L.E.A.D.”: Leadership, Excellence, Acumen, and Diligence.

Leadership – I’ve held the position of Interim Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for two major human services agencies that provide health care and related services to the underserved population in eight counties within the state of Maryland. My experience in managing and monitoring personnel, government grants, and contracts has afforded me the skillset to evaluate and analyze an organization’s budget, staffing pattern, outreach strategies, revenue generation, current and future capacity, potential for growth, and opportunities for improvement. These leadership topics are vital to enhancing the strategic mission and assuring the long-term viability of the organization.

Excellence – Organizations hire my company (ARMOUR, Inc.) to ensure their programs are in compliance with programmatic activities, are financially accountable, are accurately reporting data, and are providing overall public value. (I work with HHSs, CBOs, FQHCs, ASOs, and CHCs throughout the country.) When necessary, I pursue cases of suspicious or incongruent data reporting, identify overuse of funds, and investigate negative consumer comments. Upon completion of any site visit, I prepare a formal report, which is delivered along with a presentation to the leadership team.

Acumen – Throughout my career, my responsibilities have included reporting to boards, committees and government agencies; managing all aspects of human resources; negotiating vendor contracts; enhancing organization benefits; and identifying staff training opportunities for developmental growth. Significantly, I have been responsible for creating fiscal policies and procedures, which includes investment policy and improved cash management. This includes accounting for company assets and monitoring risk by staying current on changes in statutes and applicable Office of Management and Budget (OMB) circulars. My ability to bring this level of acumen to the organizations that hire my company has a direct impact on their ability to improve fiscal and administrative procedures. This ensures they will be in full compliance with funders’ regulations, and they will continue to receive funding to support their strategic mission.

Diligence – When an organization is found to be out of compliance, I provide technical assistance (in person and over the phone) to help staff members correct the problem. I clearly let the leadership and employees know that I’m available for follow-up guidance. My goal is to ensure the organization has a solid fiscal and administrative foundation. This enables the organization to continue to receive funding, deliver quality services, and make a difference in the community it serves.