Elita Dowd

Dynamic financial professional with over 15 years of experience in proposal management and financial analysis within clinical research and project management settings. Proven expertise in delivering high-quality proposals, developing pricing strategies, and leading budgeting initiatives, having successfully managed a $100M+ oncology portfolio. Strong cross-functional collaboration skills with a history of enhancing operational efficiency through effective financial modeling and scope management.

Committed to driving revenue growth and supporting strategic objectives.

Manager, Proposals & Financial Analysis at Cognitive Research Corporation (CRC) (2022-06 – Present)

• Spearhead proposal development and pricing strategies to bolster company revenue objectives in a clinical research context.
• Oversee the entire RFP lifecycle, from initiation through submission, contracting, and change orders.
• Deliver over 23 high-quality proposals annually, while expertly managing competing deadlines and stakeholder inputs.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Business Development, clinical teams, and department heads to align scope, timelines, and pricing strategies.
• Develop and institute a scalable proposal infrastructure, which includes pricing models, pipeline/backlog forecasting tools, and unit-based budget templates.
• Conceptualize and implement a formal change order process and tracking tool, enhancing visibility and control of out-of-scope work.
• Provide continuous budget negotiation and contracting support for awarded studies.
• Educate project teams on financial processes to ensure precise scope tracking and robust revenue capture.

Finance & Proposal Analyst at Aperio Clinical Outcomes (2020-06 – 2022-04)

• Championed financial strategy and execution for RFPs along with ongoing project financial management.
• Directed the RFP budgeting process, leading cross-functional meetings to outline scope, timelines, and pricing.
• Formulated client-ready budget proposals under tight timelines, achieving high accuracy and competitiveness.
• Partnered with project managers to scrutinize financial health, burn rates, and profitability across studies.
• Administered and executed change orders, ensuring coherence between scope alterations and revenue.

Senior Project Financial Analyst at Syneos Health (2019-08 – 2020-05)

• Provided financial oversight for an oncology portfolio exceeding $100M.
• Facilitated monthly project financial reviews, advising project managers on risks, margins, and corrective actions.
• Managed revenue recognition in accordance with ASC 606 standards.
• Constructed forecasting models and reporting tools to monitor performance against plans.

Senior Financial Analyst at RTI International (2016-06 – 2019-07)

• Directed project budgeting and forecasting across a portfolio exceeding $40M.
• Developed executive-facing financial models and performance reports.
• Collaborated with operations to enhance profitability and mitigate risks.

Finance, Audit & Treasury Leadership at Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions | Dex Media | Lenovo (2005-09 – 2016-06)

• Established a strong foundation in financial controls, forecasting, and operational finance.
• Led audits, treasury operations, and financial risk management across global environments.

MBA in Business Administration – Campbell University (2003 – 2005)

BA – UNC Chapel Hill (1992 – 1996)