Sarah Xander

Background

About Sarah Xander

Administrative Professional working at one of the top research institutions in the world, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), as the Research Department Administrator (Director of Operations) of the Physical Oceanography (PO) Department. I work on high-risk, complex issues dealing with government grants and contract. I'm the team leader of the administrative staff that assist Scientists in maintaining and obtain funding so they can effectively do their research. In conjunction with the above I'm in charge of the day to day operations of the department which encompasses the scientific research initiatives that includes a student population. WHOI has a joint program with MIT so the PO department also has students that we assist, ensuring they have adequate office space and all they they need to thrive and be successful. I work with other departments within the institution, government agencies, and universities to help in the collaboration efforts of the Scientific Staff and their teams. I am also directly involved with all renovations and construction within the PO Department, being the main point of contact and project manager for all facility changes. I have over 30 years of combined experience with managing people and projects. My skills in interpersonal communication, complex problem-solving, and leadership enable me to be an effective manager. Beginning in 2016 I became the manager of nine Administrative Professionals in the Physical Oceanography Department. Since 2016 I have grown my team to eleven total which is now comprised of 9 Research Administrators and 2 People Operations Administrators. Other noteworthy skills include database and project management, user testing, e-commerce experience, understanding of basic HTML, ability to work under pressure as well as a self-starter.