Joann Phelan
About Joann Phelan
Joann Phelan is the Associate Director of Global Operations at Evidence Action, where she has worked since 2022. She has extensive experience in operations, finance, and grants, having held various roles in organizations focused on development solutions.
Current Role at Evidence Action
Joann Phelan serves as the Associate Director of Global Operations at Evidence Action, a position she has held since 2022. In this role, she focuses on scaling development solutions and enhancing operational efficiency. Her responsibilities include overseeing various operational aspects and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure the successful implementation of programs. Phelan's experience in technology, operations, finance, and grants supports her effectiveness in this position.
Previous Experience at Evidence Action
Joann Phelan has held multiple positions at Evidence Action prior to her current role. She worked as the Manager of Grants and Transition Implementation from 2014 to 2016, followed by her role as Program Manager for Dispensers for Safe Water from 2013 to 2014. Phelan also served as the Manager of Strategic Operations from 2016 to 2020. These roles contributed to her deep understanding of the organization's operations and strategic initiatives.
Education and Expertise
Joann Phelan earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Wesleyan University, where she studied from 2003 to 2007. She furthered her education at Columbia University - School of International and Public Affairs, obtaining an Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA) with a focus on International Economic Policy and Management from 2010 to 2012. Additionally, she holds a Carbon Footprinting Certificate from the University of New Hampshire, enhancing her expertise in sustainability and environmental impact.
Career Background
Before joining Evidence Action, Joann Phelan gained valuable experience in various organizations. She worked as a Research Associate and Associate Analyst at NERA Economic Consulting from 2007 to 2009. Phelan also held the position of Senior Manager for Grants Administration at Innovations for Poverty Action from 2010 to 2013. Her consultancy role at EcoZoom as Director of Development lasted for six months in 2015, and she briefly worked as a Strategy Consultant at the Busara Center for Behavioral Economics in 2014.
Skills and Competencies
Joann Phelan demonstrates strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills, which are essential for her role in global operations at Evidence Action. She is recognized for her results-driven and process-oriented approach, enabling her to effectively collaborate with diverse, matrixed, and cross-functional teams. Her extensive experience in technology, operations, finance, and grants further enhances her capability to manage complex projects and drive organizational success.