Kathy Witry Halstead Email & Phone Number

West Sacramento, Ca

Oversee the functions of the administrative/operations and internal communications activities in the Communications division of the world's largest educator-only pension fund representing nearly 900,000 members and managing an investments portfolio over $246 billion. Provide strategy and overall direction for CalSTRS internal communications efforts including intranet content and design and digital signage. Administer operations, procurement and project management tasks for the Communications division, including oversight of the division’s $4.5 million annual budget. Manage intake process used to initiate and deliver the creative process in writing, editing, graphic design, video production, digital signage, photography and all other communication services.

Oversaw project management function for Communications division to include contracting functions, SharePoint tracking, budget oversight, inventory controls, and quality assurance. Managed human resources matters including recruiting, initiating timely probationary reports and training requests to support individual development plans. Served as executive editor of the e-newsletter; planned, researched, and created schedules; coordinated editorial content and oversaw production process. Developed and conducted periodic readership surveys. Oversaw development of strategic internal communication plans for project management office and employee recognition program. Supported logistics for internal communications initiatives including video shoots and internal events.

Developed and directed the implementation of goals, objectives, policies, procedures and work standards for 12 wireless phone sales operations. Prepared and administered annual budget of $900,000, including determining staffing and operational needs; approved and monitored expenditures. Planned, developed and implemented strategy for personnel management including recruitment and selection policy/practices, discipline, pay, contracts, training and development, succession planning, morale and motivation, culture, performance appraisals and quality management issues. Handled administrative responsibilities for the company, including the development and maintenance of daily sales reporting, trend reporting, sales tax reporting and bi-monthly payroll. Prepared monthly account reconciliations and special reports as requested.

Designed and implemented annual fundraising activities, including establishing regular programs for solicitation and recognition of individual, major, corporate, foundation and “planned-giving” donors. Created and directed a Development Committee to implement large gift and other programs to encourage larger personal, foundation and corporate gifts. Researched, identified and cultivated donor prospects, including individuals, foundations, corporations and other businesses, and the public sector. Recruited, trained and managed hospitality and development events including 2003 NCAA Track and Field Championships in Sacramento, CA.

Integrated all elements of the marketing mix including offer development, customer base marketing, marketing communications, competitive intelligence and operations. Proven event planning and execution skills: Trade show implementation, logistics management and volunteer coordination. Managed district field marketing event sponsorship budget of $700,000. Negotiated sponsorships designed to meet local market goals including California State Fair, Fresno State Football/Basketball, etc. Represented AT&T at 2002 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City, UT.

Reconciled equipment related general ledger accounts. Ensured accurate inventory related financial data including cost of goods sold and equipment revenue. Reconciled equipment accounts to physical inventory valuing $5+ million. Managed annual audits of the CA/NV/HI regional distribution center and retail service centers throughout the region.