Petra Stefancova

Operations and Project Executive with 8+ years' experience delivering grant-funded programmes, managing post-award processes, and supporting SMEs and stakeholders in fast-paced, customer-focused environments. Proven track record in claims review, compliance, and portfolio coordination across ERDF and Innovate UK programmes. Skilled in working to service level agreements (SLAs), ensuring accuracy, quality assurance, and timely delivery of operational activities.

Strong collaborator with the ability to work independently while contributing to cross-functional teams.

Business Operations Project Executive at Exemplas / Innovate UK (2023-04 – Present)

• Manage post-award operational activities across funded programmes, ensuring applications and claims meet compliance, eligibility, and audit requirements
• Act as a key point of contact for SMEs and delivery partners, providing guidance and resolving queries to maintain high levels of customer service
• Coordinate multiple project workstreams, ensuring alignment with governance frameworks, timelines, and operational processes
• Review and validate claims, maintaining accurate records and audit trails in line with programme requirements
• Analyse claims and application data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for process improvement
• Work collaboratively with project managers, grants teams, and operational leads to ensure efficient end-to-end programme delivery
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, enhancing accuracy, efficiency, and customer experience

ERDF Project Officer at Wolverhampton City Council (2021-03 – 2023-03)

• Managed end-to-end post-award grant processes, including claims review, validation, and submission in line with ERDF compliance requirements
• Ensured claims were processed accurately and within required timeframes, supporting delivery against service standards and deadlines
• Provided clear, consistent guidance to stakeholders, resolving complex queries and ensuring understanding of funding rules and processes
• Maintained and monitored tracking systems to report on project performance, financial progress, and delivery milestones
• Collaborated with finance and project teams to support reconciliations, reporting, and audit requirements
• Supported quality assurance processes, ensuring high levels of accuracy and compliance across all activities

Project Administrator (ESF Officer) at Stanmore College – Employer Engagement Department (2017-03 – 2019-09)

• Supported administration of ESF-funded programmes, ensuring compliance with funding and audit requirements
• Maintained accurate documentation, data systems, and quality assurance records
• Coordinated stakeholders including learners, tutors, contractors, and internal teams
• Assisted in planning, scheduling, and monitoring programme delivery
• Supported reporting, audits, and stakeholder communications
• Identified risks and supported implementation of corrective actions

Customer Service & Administrative Roles (2011-01 – 2017-12)

• Delivered front-line customer service, handling enquiries, scheduling, and issue resolution
• Developed strong organisational, communication, and stakeholder management skills

National Certificate in Business in Business – Aberdeen College

Childcare Level 3 in Childcare – Harrow College

Certificate in Principles of Team Leading in Leadership