Maria Alejandra Peláez

About Maria Alejandra Peláez

Strategic, systems-driven, and solutions-oriented leader and trusted C-suite partner with a track record of enhancing operational performance in mission-driven organizations. I translate strategy into execution by aligning people, processes, and systems with priorities. I oversee core shared services functions to ensure operational infrastructure that enables high-performance, productivity and accountability. I lead high-priority initiatives ranging from post-acquisition integration to global business continuity planning and organizational restructuring.Known for sound judgment, steady leadership, and reliable execution, I value cross-functional collaboration to bring clarity to the complex and to ensure organizations execute with discipline, alignment, and purpose.PMP certified | Bilingual English/Spanish | Basic French

Experience

1. Vice President, Global Operations

   URC

   Oct 2021 — Present · Chevy Chase, MD, US

   Lead the global operations team to support effective project implementation, optimize project operations and performance, and reduce risk for a portfolio of 24 projects across 20 countries.• Direct URC’s integration management office; key member of M&A team during acquisition process.• Develop corporate strategic and business plans and identify and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for 15 departments to foster a culture of accountability.• Designed and implemented a project performance framework integrating operational, financial, and risk indicators to assess portfolio health and improve decision-making.• Directly develop, oversee and manage multi-million dollar budgets.• Enable the marketing, engagement, and communications team to advance URC’s business development agenda and engage with key stakeholders across a variety of channels.• Oversee facilities management and IT functions prioritizing user and workplace experience to enhance productivity and performance.• Fulfill Chief of Staff role to advance key corporate priorities in partnership with CEO and COO; Appointed Corporate Secretary.

Education

• The George Washington University

  B.A., International Affairs and Political Science; Concentrations: Latin America & International Politics

  2001 — 2005

• Escuela Campo Alegre

  High School Diploma, International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma

  1998 — 2001

• Rice University

  MBA, Management Consulting and Marketing

  2010 — 2012