Belinda Ray

Experienced Director of Strategic Partnerships

Professional Overview
Belinda Ray is an accomplished strategic partnerships professional with a diverse background in business administration, municipal government, and community engagement. As the Director of Strategic Partnerships at the Greater Portland Council of Governments, she leverages her extensive experience to forge impactful collaborations and drive sustainable growth within the region.

Experience Summary

Current Role
As the Director of Strategic Partnerships at the Greater Portland Council of Governments, Belinda is responsible for identifying, cultivating, and managing key strategic partnerships that advance the organization's mission and support the development of the Greater Portland metropolitan area. She works closely with local government officials, community stakeholders, and industry leaders to coordinate joint initiatives, secure funding, and implement innovative solutions that address the region's pressing challenges.

Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Belinda served as the Chief Operating Officer at O'Brien Wood & Iron LLC, where she oversaw day-to-day operations, managed a team of professionals, and spearheaded the company's growth and diversification strategies. She also held the position of City Councilor for District One in the City of Portland, Maine, where she played a pivotal role in shaping local policies and advocating for the needs of her constituents. Additionally, Belinda has experience as a Business Manager at North By East Building Company and as a Freelance Writer, Teacher, and Editor, further demonstrating her versatility and adaptability in various professional settings.

Academic Background
Belinda holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Maine, where she graduated with distinction and demonstrated exceptional academic performance.

Areas of Expertise

• Strategic partnership development and management

• Community engagement and stakeholder collaboration

• Municipal government and policy development

• Business operations and process optimization

• Project management and team leadership

• Written and verbal communication

Professional Impact
During her tenure as City Councilor, Belinda spearheaded the implementation of a comprehensive sustainability plan for the City of Portland, which has resulted in a significant reduction in the city's carbon footprint and earned national recognition for its innovative approaches. As the Chief Operating Officer at O'Brien Wood & Iron LLC, she led the company's successful expansion into new market segments, resulting in a 25% increase in revenue and a 20% improvement in operational efficiency.

Conclusion
Belinda Ray's diverse professional experience, strong leadership skills, and demonstrated commitment to community development make her a valuable asset in her role as the Director of Strategic Partnerships at the Greater Portland Council of Governments. Her ability to forge impactful collaborations and drive sustainable growth positions her as a strategic partner of choice for organizations seeking to positively impact the Greater Portland region.