Christl McCarthy

Results-driven, detail-oriented Executive Assistant with nearly three decades of experience supporting C-suite leaders and governing boards. Optimizer of executive office efficiency, with expertise in complex calendar and travel management, board governance, event planning, and organizational transitions. Trusted "right-hand" to multiple CEOs, recognized for impeccable discretion, seamless communication, analytical instincts, and decisive problem-solving in high-stakes settings. Known for maintaining trust across diverse stakeholder groups and fostering consistently positive team culture.

Rapid Advancement & Executive Continuity | Promoted from Administrative Assistant to Executive Assistant within first year; Successfully managed transitions of three successive CEOs (17 years, 5 years and 7 years). Exceptional annual performance reviews from all three CEOs.

Merger & Organizational Restructuring | Orchestrated administrative support during organizational merger (2014–2015); coordinated seamless integration of two Board of Directors groups with board expansion from 60 to 90+ members and executive board from 25 to 40 members; minimized organizational disruption by facilitating comprehensive and timely communications among all relevant stakeholders (internal and external).

Executive Search Coordination | Managed end-to-end coordination of CEO search process, managing confidential communications and scheduling & planning meetings for Board Search Committee, third-party search firm. Executed all logistics for CEO candidate interview schedules, travel arrangements, and handling of sensitive and confidential information with absolute discretion.

CEO Onboarding & Relationship Building | Orchestrated complex travel schedule for CEO's first week - 8 member visits in 5 days over 3 major geographic regions. Gained rapid trust of new CEO by leveraging both my institutional knowledge and culture awareness as well as my entrenched relationships with board of directors and staff.

Staff Reorganization & Morale | Supported CEO through challenging staff reorganization with multiple layoffs; maintained team morale, positive culture, and productivity during difficult transition exhibiting composure, emotional maturity, and positive attitude

Major Operational Transitions | Key support for headquarters relocation from Washington, DC to Arlington, VA (2024); In the same year collaborated on organizational rebranding initiative, transition to new CRM/AMS platform, and participated in beta testing

Board Governance Enhancement | Collaborated with CEO on governance and bylaw changes; managed transition from Diligent-BoardEffect portal to new CRM-integrated committee portal; led Board training on new systems, maximizing platform value for members.

Member Engagement & Growth | Consistently year-over-year increased Board registration at annual trade show, through managing agenda development and coordination of government-level speakers for board exclusive briefings and social networking engagements. Increased attendance was achieved through timely promotions, clear communications, and comprehensive registration tracking and follow-up. Board trade show registrations increased 30% from 2023-2024 and additional 10% from 2024-2025.

PACE Certification (Professional Administrative Certification of Excellence)

American Society of Administrative Professionals (ASAP)

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