Sheila Obanda

Results-driven and detail-oriented professional with 4+ years of progressive experience providing executive, program, and procurement support within fast-paced regional and international development organizations. Proven ability to manage complex calendars, coordinate senior stakeholders, draft high-quality briefs and correspondence, and maintain efficient administrative and operational systems. Recognized for strong judgment, discretion, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to deliver under competing priorities across East Africa–focused programs.

Program Officer – Procurement Officer at The People's Action for Learning (PAL) Network (2024-01 – Present)

• Coordinate closely with senior management, program teams, and external partners to support operational effectiveness across multiple initiatives.
• Draft and review professional correspondence, internal briefs, procurement justifications, and operational documentation for leadership review.
• Manage complex workflows involving multiple stakeholders, ensuring deadlines, approvals, and compliance requirements are met.
• Maintain structured documentation systems and trackers to support transparency, accountability, and audit readiness.
• Serve as a key liaison with vendors and service providers, ensuring clear communication and effective relationship management.
• Support senior leadership through anticipatory planning, issue resolution, and process improvement.
• Coordinate logistics for regional and international conferences, including travel arrangements, flight bookings, accommodations, and on-site support for senior stakeholders and delegates.

Executive Assistant to the Chief Executive Officer at The People's Action for Learning (PAL) Network (2023-01 – 2023-12)

• Provided high-level executive support to the CEO, including calendar management, meeting coordination, and confidential correspondence.
• Drafted speaking notes, briefing materials, meeting agendas, and follow-up action points aligned with organizational priorities.
• Coordinated engagements with government officials, donors, international partners, and civil society stakeholders.
• Maintained accurate records, filing systems, and documentation to support executive decision-making.
• Acted as a trusted gatekeeper, balancing competing demands and ensuring effective use of executive time.

Program Assistant at The People's Action for Learning (PAL) Network (2021-01 – 2022-12)

• Provided administrative and coordination support to ensure smooth execution of the annual work plan.
• Prepared background materials and supporting documentation for program implementation and reporting.
• Generated purchase requisitions, imprest and petty cash requests, and payment vouchers.
• Supported liaison and communication with network members and partners.
• Assisted with event planning and coordination of meetings and workshops.

Intern – Diplomatic Correspondence & Administration at Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Kenya (2018-12 – 2019-06)

• Assisted with diplomatic correspondence, research, and briefing note preparation.
• Supported protocol-related activities and administrative functions.

Master of Business Administration in MBA – Catholic University of Eastern Africa (2024-09)

Bachelor of Arts in International Relations – United States International University – Africa (USIU-A) (2015-09 – 2019-04)

Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education in KCSE – Loreto Convent Valley Road (2014)