Connie Learman
Director of Compliance, Safeguarding & Investigations
Professional Overview
Connie Learman is a seasoned compliance and safeguarding professional with extensive experience in the nonprofit and international development sectors. As the Director of Compliance, Safeguarding & Investigations at Food for the Hungry, Inc., she is responsible for overseeing the organization's compliance programs, implementing robust safeguarding practices, and leading complex investigations.
Experience Summary
Current Role
In her current role at Food for the Hungry, Inc., Connie is responsible for developing and maintaining comprehensive compliance programs that ensure the organization adheres to all relevant laws, regulations, and industry best practices. She leads a team of compliance specialists and investigators, and is instrumental in fostering a culture of accountability and ethical conduct within the organization.
Under Connie's leadership, Food for the Hungry, Inc. has strengthened its safeguarding measures, including the implementation of rigorous screening processes, enhanced staff training, and the establishment of effective reporting and investigation mechanisms. Her work has been instrumental in protecting vulnerable populations and maintaining the organization's reputation as a trusted partner in the global fight against poverty and hunger.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Connie served as the Director of Compliance at Opportunity International, where she played a pivotal role in developing and implementing comprehensive compliance programs across the organization's global operations. Before that, she held the position of Senior Grants & Contracts / Legal at World Vision USA, where she provided expert guidance on compliance and legal matters related to the organization's grant-funded initiatives.
Connie's early career also included roles at the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies and the Mississippi Arts Commission, where she gained valuable experience in the areas of community development, human resources, and organizational management.
Academic Background
Connie holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from the University of Mississippi, with a focus on Human Resource Management. She has also completed numerous industry-specific training programs and certifications, further strengthening her expertise in compliance, safeguarding, and investigations.
Areas of Expertise
- Compliance program development and implementation
- Safeguarding policies and procedures
- Investigations management and case resolution
- Nonprofit and international development sector knowledge
- Stakeholder engagement and collaboration
- Team leadership and capacity building
Professional Impact
During her tenure at Food for the Hungry, Inc., Connie has led the successful implementation of a comprehensive compliance program that has been recognized as a model of best practice within the industry. She has also spearheaded the development of innovative safeguarding initiatives, which have significantly enhanced the organization's ability to protect vulnerable populations and maintain the trust of its partners and donors.
Connie's contributions have been instrumental in strengthening Food for the Hungry, Inc.'s overall operational efficiency, risk management, and ethical standards. Her expertise and leadership have made a lasting impact on the organization's ability to achieve its mission and maintain its position as a trusted leader in the international development sector.
Conclusion
With a proven track record of success in the compliance and safeguarding field, Connie Learman is a highly respected professional who continues to drive positive change within the nonprofit and international development sectors. Her commitment to ethical and accountable practices, coupled with her strong leadership skills, makes her a valuable asset to any organization seeking to enhance its compliance and safeguarding capabilities.
