Joe Sumner
Eau Claire, WI ***** ********@*****.*** 715-***-****
Executive Director
Dynamic leader with over 15 years of experience driving the achievement of organizational goals through strategic leadership. Proven ability to enhance program performance and reduce costs through detailed operations analysis and contract management. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills leveraged to develop mutually beneficial relationships with stakeholders, clients, and community partners.
Track record of success in using technological tools, including websites and algorithms, to maximize programmatic efficacy. Strong work ethic and team leadership abilities, devoted to cultivating the highest performing teams through recruitment and training. Honorable service in the US Navy; awarded the Navy Expeditionary Medal for service in the Middle East.
Financial and Management Competencies
Regional Program Oversight
Cost Reductions
Contract Administration
Process Improvements
Policy Creation/Implementation
Internal Communication
Strategic Operations Plans
Performance Metrics/Analysis
Project Management
Regulatory Compliance
Cross-Functional Teams
Staff Supervision/Training
Career Experience
ATTIC Correctional Services – Madison, WI
Vice President of Operations, 2016 to 2018
Oversaw the administration of five regional areas with a combined annual budget of $30M. Developed and implemented cost reductions and programmatic improvements to meet corporate objectives. Interfaced directly with stakeholders and fundraising agencies to generate growth opportunities. Created, implemented, and enforced internal organizational policies. Negotiated and administered contracts with vendors, agencies, and distributors. Reviewed and evaluated recommendations from team members on operational changes. Drafted financial reports and budgeting documents. Represented the organization in the community.
Key Contributions:
Managed a team of 200+ staff, with direct supervision over five Area Supervisors.
Reduced costs by more than $60K across the agency by using detailed spreadsheets to identify areas of cost inflation and by providing detailed feedback to staff on performance.
Created an algorithm to improve organizational bidding processes by locating prices below the competition rate, allowing the organization to secure more favorable contract terms.
Enhanced internal communication by coordinating staff meetings, listening sessions, and interactive emails.
State of Wisconsin, Dept. of Corrections – Rhinelander, WI
Advanced Program & Policy Analyst, 2011 to 2016
Directed the development and operation of multi-disciplinary service programs across 17 counties. Applied independent discretion and judgement in key situations. Conducted research on programmatic trends; forecasted effective solutions. Collected and analyzed outcome data to evaluate program efficacy. Maintained all programs, including politically sensitive initiatives, in compliance with legal regulations and internal procedures. Supervised contracted staff members. Facilitated communication with public officials and law enforcement; represented the department in the community. Analyzed clients’ socioeconomic needs and allocated funds accordingly.
Key Contributions:
Developed a data gathering system to gauge program efficacy, which was used as a base for a larger system applied throughout Wisconsin state agencies.
Oversaw an inventory and services budget of $2.4M.
Saved the State of Wisconsin $100K+ by locating less expensive options for contracted services and generating competition amongst bidders.
Implemented a region-wide training system in 18 counties with 20 probation/parole officers; met with teams to review evidenced-based practices and program status.
Enhanced the standard client graduation ceremony by sharing positive information about each individual and the group as a whole; ceremony was duplicated by others.
Organized a recreational day for 300+ inmates, including contests, music, food, and a talent show; coordinated security, notified staff, and created/awarded prizes.
Serenity House Inc. – Chippewa Falls, WI
Director, 2000 to 2010
Supervised organizational programs according to ethical, legal, and financial requirements. Represented the agency before accrediting and credentialing bodies. Allocated workload and managed staff members. Recruited, hired, and trained new staff; encouraged professional development training to maximize team performance. Coordinated the execution of treatment services and delivery; administered budgets and ensured facilities were maintained appropriately. Reported directly to the Administrator.
Key Contributions:
Increased referrals 30% by developing relationships with new and existing referral sources.
On an annual basis, developed detailed program statistics, including graduation rates, ongoing successes, time, and funding source; prioritized programs and established goals for the next year.
Organized a regional free community forum on substance abuse and mental health, featuring a nationally known expert and industry leaders; moderated by a local celebrity on the news.
Further experience as a Clinical Supervisor and Substance Abuse Counselor with Serenity House Inc. and the Wisconsin Dept. of Corrections.
Education and Credentials
Master of Business Administration
University of North Florida – Jacksonville, FL
Select Professional Training
Supervisory Management 1 and 3
Giving Feedback: A Managers Guide
Effective Team Building Strategies
Motivating the Unmotivated Client
Multi-Cultural Issues for Rural Programs
Community Leadership
Organizations and Associations
Chippewa Substance Abuse Providers
Loyal Order of the Moose
Notre Dame Parish
Reunion Committees
McDonell High School Class of 1984 Reunion (and DVD)
USS Sampson Reunion
Serenity House 30/35 Year Reunions
Presentations and Forums
Two Seminars, “Treating Early Life Developmental Trauma and Co-occurring Addictive Disorders”
Open Community Forum, Substance Abuse & Mental Health Issues in the Chippewa Valley
Further leadership experience as a Youth Hockey Coach and Referee.