SEITU STEPHENS
215-***-**** *************@*****.***
Profile
A seasoned JD professional with extensive legal and political science back ground developed through
experience as a consultant and research analyst for the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee, Pennsylvania
Utilities Commission and PA House of Representatives seeks a position as Contract Manager.
Excels in relationship building, risk management and regulatory compliance while offering advanced
contract negotiation skills, legislative subject matter expertise and knowledge of various contract types.
Expertise
Contract Negotiation
NDA Drafting & Review
Risk & Benefit Analysis
Risk Management Document Review
Policies & Procedures
RFP Distribution
Grant Writing Records Management
Procurement
Regulatory Compliance
Compliance Training
Experience
STEPHENS CONSULTING- Coatesville, PA 2010 to Present
Political Consultant
Monitor report of proceedings in the Houses of Parliament; government departments; European institutions; think-tanks; non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other bodies in order to keep clients informed of any developments related to their field of activity in addition:
• Advise on potential responses that may be required and requests for information
• Research, forecast and evaluate the effects of public policy on an organization, using public sources, political intelligence and personal contacts
• Attend select committee hearings, party conferences and other events
• Establish and maintain two-way communication with relevant official bodies and stakeholders;
• Maintain regular contact, in person and in writing, with politicians, civil servants, and/or staff in local authorities and regulatory bodies to brief them on clients' work and concerns
• Respond to public policy threats and opportunities
• Write newsletters, briefings, campaign material and press releases
PA HOUSE OF REPRESENTAIVES- Harrisburg, Pa 2008 to 2010
Research and Legislative Analyst
Forecast political, economic and social trends to provide consultation and advisement to government officials, civic bodies, research agencies, media, and political parties including the Pennsylvania Utilities Commission and the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee in addition:
• Wrote contracts, drafts of legislative proposals, and prepared speeches, correspondence, policy papers and contracts for governmental use
• Evaluated programs, policies, and related recommendations to institutions and organizations
• Analyzed policies, public issues, legislation, and operations of governments, businesses, and organizations
• Provided media commentary related to public policy, political issues and events
• Disseminated research results through academic publications, written reports, and public presentations
• Collected, analyzed, and interpreted data including election results and public opinion survey report on findings, recommendations, and conclusions
• Developed and test theories, using information from interviews, newspapers, periodicals, case law, historical papers, polls, and/or statistical sources
INTERGOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE- Harrisburg, PA 2007 to 2008
Research Analyst
Provided consistency and oversight for international and intergovernmental contracts and contractual relationships leading to the management of contracts in coordination with legal counsel and contractors in addition:
• Led completion of bid and request for proposal process for contract award
• Ensured compliance with insurance and bonding requirements
• Drafted, negotiated and managed contracts for construction, services and materials
• Researched and drafted legislation regarding issues within the intergovernmental affairs realm
• Advised legislators, executives, and community advocates on legislation pending in the House of Representatives
PA HOUSE LEGISLATIVE POLICY & RESEARCH OFFICE- Harrisburg, PA 2006 to 2007
District Office Manager
Developed collaborative partnerships with agencies and groups to provide services and support to underserved communities in the Philadelphia’s 181st district; Served as a District representative to provide interpretive and recreational program outreach in addition:
• Analyzed and surveyed constituents for development of new strategic planning and community initiatives
• Organized departments and businesses to provide program services, outreach delivery and launch projects
• Facilitated presentations about District programs and services to local community groups, and staffed events to increase the District’s outreach program goals
• Implemented program development, planning and evaluation including annual assessment and evaluation of department outreach programs
CONSTAR INC- Philadelphia, PA 2005 to 2006
Contract Attorney
Led business development team in preparation of necessary documents for inclusion into tender submissions; negotiated legal requirements of bids in addition:
• Drafted, negotiated, and administered agreements with clients, partner organizations, suppliers, subcontractors, and consultants
• Worked with the Professional Services team to ensure the correct application of U.S. Government and other donor agency regulations, policies and procedures in regular project operations
• Summarize contract key provisions for clients and stakeholders
• Creation of compliance policies and procedures, and stock purchase agreements
ROBERT HALF LEGAL- Philadelphia, PA 2005 to 2006
Contract Attorney
Ensured contracts, processes, procedures and marketing materials met business objectives and are in compliance with applicable laws governing consumer finance in addition:
• Reviewed and revised product marketing materials, customer facing materials and customer correspondence to determine compliance with federal and state laws and regulations regarding advertising and unfair, deceptive and abusive acts and practices
• Participated on business teams to provide legal support for new programs and processes
KELLY LAW- Philadelphia, PA 2005 to 2006
Contract Attorney
Pursued strategies and actions for patent protection on a client to client basis; Prepared and filed patent applications and substantive responses and oversees procedural actions in addition:
• Counseled and educated clients on patent and intellectual property law
• Researched to ensure the patent is not currently held by another entity
• Obtained, tracked, and managed the patents of each client
• Initiated legal action against individuals and entities who infringe upon patents held by clients
DESSEN MOSES & SHEINOFF LAW FIRM- Cherry Hill, NJ 2002 to 2006
Law Clerk
Conducted legal research, prepared memoranda, opinions, and orders for attorneys concerning case files; Reviewed and annotated laws, court decisions, documents, opinions, briefs and legal authorities in addition:
• Analyzed law for oral motions made during trials
• Administered change orders ensuring legal and contractual compliance
• Complied references on laws and decisions required for legal terminations
• Conferred with judge concerning legal questions, construction of documents and granting of orders
Education
Juris Doctorate
Widener University School of Law
Bachelor of Science
Lincoln University