Heather Smith

About Heather Smith

Strategic, results-driven executive with 20+ years of experience leading large, multidisciplinary teams and managing complex, high-value federal programs. Proven ability to drive transformational change, execute mission-critical objectives, and balance operational demands with long-term strategic priorities in politically sensitive environments. Expert in emergency management, intergovernmental coordination, and large-scale grant administration.

Experience

1. Recovery Division Director, Region 7

   Fema

   Jan 2019 — Present · Kansas City, MO, US

   Direct Recovery grants and programs across IA, KS, MO, and NE, managing 100+ staff and $3.5B in infrastructure funding- Lead workforce performance through planning, coaching, and accountability, ensuring quality, timeliness, and mission alignment- Developed FEMA Region 7’s first Annex R – Recovery, establishing staffing models, timelines, and performance metrics for Level 3 flooding events- Designed and executed a 24-month Public Assistance Program Delivery Manager Development Program, improving delivery efficiency and customer service- Led five accelerated hiring events, issuing select job offers within 48 hours- Reorganized the Division to increase efficiency and improve stakeholder outcomes- As Acting Deputy Regional Administrator in 2020- Revised budget processing to increase visibility and accountability and enable continuous improvement analysis on funding impacts- Executed end of year (FY20)$3.1M operating budget including five reprogramming requests to address the COVID-19 virtual working environment and unfunded requirements.

Education

• George Mason University - Antonin Scalia Law School

  Doctor of Law - JD

• Cedarville University

  Bachelors in Public Administration