Diego Cardenas

About Diego Cardenas

Strategic operations and program management leader with 25+ years of progressive experience across social services, business development, and organizational leadership. Proven expertise in building and scaling high-performing teams, implementing compliance frameworks, driving operational excellence, and spearheading business growth. Skilled at translating organizational strategy into actionable systems while maintaining focus on mission-critical outcomes and financial performance. Strategic thinker with strong analytical foundation (BS Industrial Engineering, MBA) and demonstrated success in regulated environments, startup operations, and enterprise settings. CORE COMPETENCIES Program Operations Management • Team Leadership & Development • Compliance & Regulatory Affairs • Process Improvement & Systems Design • Stakeholder Management • Budget & Financial Oversight • Business Development & Growth Strategy • Policy Implementation • Documentation & Quality Assurance • Case Management Operations • Crisis Management • Entrepreneurship • Cost Reduction & Operational Efficiency

Experience

1. Assistant Vice-president of Case Management Uc Tfc

   Cayuga Centers

   Mar 2022 — Present · New York, NY, US

   Direct oversight of case management operations serving up to 1,100 unaccompanied minors within the UC Program, ensuring comprehensive care coordination and successful family reunification outcomes· Lead cross-functional team of Directors and Assistant Directors, fostering independent decision-making and operational accountability across multiple service delivery streams· Architected and implemented standardized systems and procedures that improved service delivery consistency and reduced compliance violations by establishing clear documentation and action protocols· Maintain ORR Portal administrative access; ensure 100% accurate and timely submission of all federally mandated reports and corrective action plans in response to compliance findings· Partner with State Licensing, ORR, and third-party stakeholders (ICE, Legal Service Providers, Child Advocates) to maintain regulatory alignment and implement evidence-based best practices· Provide specialized guidance on complex casework scenarios, balancing organizational capacity with individual client needs and statutory requirements

Education

• Universidad del Valle (CO)

  Bachelor's degree

• Washington State University

  MBA

• Washington State University

  Master of Business Administration - MBA

Skills

• • Bilingual in English and Spanish - Written and Verbal. • Ability to Develop Ra
• Marketing
• Timely Decision Making
• Contract Negotiation
• Team Leadership
• Team Building
• Microsoft Excel
• Critical Thinking
• Process Improvement
• Blogging
• Customer Service
• Analysis
• Strategic Planning
• Coordination
• Microsoft Office
• Project Management
• Budgets
• Business Strategy