Dara Smith
About Dara Smith
Dara Smith is a Lead Business Analyst with extensive experience in business analysis and digital product development. She holds an MBA from the University of St. Thomas and has worked for notable companies including Inspire Brands and Target.
Work at Inspire Brands
Dara Smith has held the position of Lead Business Analyst at Inspire Brands since 2017. In this role, Smith focuses on digital product development strategies and delivery life-cycle management specifically for online retail platforms and ecommerce channels. Smith's responsibilities include leading teams through product launches and brand positioning, contributing to the overall success of the company's initiatives in the competitive food service industry. The role is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where Smith has been instrumental in optimizing business processes and enhancing operational efficiency.
Previous Experience in Business Analysis
Prior to joining Inspire Brands, Dara Smith worked as a Senior IT Business Analyst at Great River Energy from 2015 to 2016. Smith also served as a Senior Business Analyst at Xcel Energy for a brief period from 2016 to 2017. Additionally, Smith spent 19 years at Target as a Business Consultant, where extensive experience in business process analysis and optimization was gained. This diverse background in various sectors has equipped Smith with a comprehensive understanding of business operations and strategic development.
Education and Expertise
Dara Smith holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance from the University of St. Thomas. Smith also earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Finance from St. Cloud State University. Furthering education, Smith completed another MBA focusing on Big Data & Business Intelligence at ENEB - Escuela de Negocios Europea de Barcelona. This educational foundation supports Smith's expertise in digital product development strategies and program management, particularly in the context of online retail and ecommerce.
Background in Business Consulting
Dara Smith's career began in business consulting, with a significant tenure at Target from 1995 to 2014. This 19-year period allowed Smith to build a solid foundation in business operations and client relations. Following this, Smith transitioned into roles that further developed analytical skills and leadership capabilities, including positions at Great River Energy and Xcel Energy. This extensive background has shaped Smith's approach to business analysis and team leadership.
Commitment to Continuous Improvement
Dara Smith is passionate about continuous improvement and actively seeks new challenges within the business analysis field. This commitment is reflected in Smith's approach to optimizing business processes and enhancing team performance. Smith's focus on program and leadership office operations demonstrates a dedication to fostering an environment of growth and efficiency in every role undertaken.