MARLENE SCHWAN

(847) 710-1894

marleneschwan@gmail.com
Highland Park, IL 60035
www.linkedin.com/in/marleneschwan

BUSINESS AND OPERATIONS PROFESSIONAL

Project Management Change Management General Management
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS

Organized and goal-oriented, with more than 10 years experience in business and project
management and a strong customer focus.

Analytical problem-solver, able to anticipate issues and create new systems that streamline
operations, resolve concerns, and improve efficiency.

Skilled in building excellent rapport with clients and team members. A visionary, able to see the
big picture, delegate effectively and motivate team members to achieve on-time project
completion.

Computer skills include: MS Word, Outlook, Excel, Access, Project, Publisher, and PowerPoint.
Core Competencies
Operations Management Strategic Planning Continuous Improvement Business Analysis
Systems Integration Training & Development - Marketing & Promotions Data Analysis

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Business Process Consultant, MMS Group LLC, Highland Park, IL
Business Services

Current

Provide oversight of all aspects of operations with an emphasis on implementing processes for maximum
efficiency and cost-effectiveness; work collaboratively across all departments of the organization Strategically
introduce systems that impact results, enhance profitability, and assist the stakeholders to meet business
objectives and goals.

Ensure integrity of revenue and inventory controls that yields immediate net profit.
Responsible for compliancy to corporate accounting, internal audit, and external regulatory parties.
Discover talent and develop leaders to sustain business success.
Provide financial analysis, budgeting forecasting, and management reporting expertise.

Operations People Manager, Alvarez and Marsal, Chicago, IL

Global professional services firm

2015

Provided overall facilitation and coordination of people-related aspects of operations, including performance
management, recruiting strategies, hiring, processing, onboarding, and training. Accomplished in Competency
Based Hiring to identify behavioral success factors.

Conducted a thorough historical ROI analysis of campus recruitment efforts which resulted in a databased recruitment plan; reduced allocation of resources saving 15% in costs; refreshed campus
recruiting marketing materials to improve brand messaging.
Updated and maintained people database system to facilitate a more proficient and precise performance
management tracking system which resulted in an increase in Performance Review submissions from
48% to 100%.
Supervised interns through their summer experience, assigned projects, and provided assistance to
complete deliverables on time.

MARLENE SCHWAN

(847) 710-1894 marleneschwan@gmail.com

Project Manager, Tressler LLP, Chicago, IL

Multi-specialty law firm

Page 2
2011 - 2014

Analyzed office performance, identify opportunities, and convey cost-cutting strategies to the Executive Board.
Designed solution plans to increase overall productivity and efficiency; lead change management efforts to
integrate seamless operational processes across multiple departments including accounting, billing, library, IT,
and marketing.

Assigned as project lead to facilitate a seamless and cost-effective integration of the merge and
acquisition between two law firms. Coordinated with key stakeholders internally/externally, updated
network systems, integrated HR practices, and engineered full lifecycle for transition.
Performed an extensive cost analysis of maintaining print law libraries across seven offices that resulted
in directing the conversion to a digital library platform, managing cultural change, reducing
redundancy, and decreasing legal research costs by 20% in the first year.
Developed module within firm accounting program to reverse undesirable trend of excessive A/R
balances resulting in a 30% reduction in outstanding receivables and added $2.5M in working capital.

Business Manager, Emalfarb, Swan & Bain, Highland Park, IL

Law firm specializing in the construction industry

2000 - 2011

Supported daily business operations and ensured achievement of objectives in a legal environment; managed
attorney billing activities and provided business support. Coordinated a network of 100+ attorneys nationwide;
fostered reputable professional relationships with attorneys and clients. Supervisory duties included recruiting,
hiring, training, and annual performance evaluation for a team of 20+ employees.

Positive results of synchronized marketing plan included 10% growth in acquisition of new clients
monthly.
Successfully increased total annual billings by 20% and reduced total costs by 15% within twelve
months from initial implementation by overhauling and streamlining internal accounting processes.

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Lakeside Congregation, Highland Park IL
Board of Director VP of Administration, Member Relations, Adult Enrichment

2004 - Present

Ladies of Virtue (Partnership b/t LOV CARES & PMI Chicago)

2013 - 2014
Project Advisor Provide project management guidance and support to groups of young woman

EDUCATION
Master of Business Administration, Project Management
Keller Graduate School of Management, DeVry University, Chicago, IL
Bachelor of Science, Political Science & Mathematics
University of South Florida, Tampa, FL

CERTIFICATIONS
Project Management Professional (PMP) Project Management Institute
Communication Certificate College of Lake County, Division of Professional Development
Owner/Operator Certification Hamburger University, McDonalds Corporation

AFFILIATIONS
Lou Man NFP Special Needs Management, Treasurer
Project Management Institute Chicago Chapter
Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Chicago Chapter