Samson Shepherd

Navy veteran and Human Resources and Operations professional with 15+ years of experience supporting workforce management, payroll administration, benefits programs, personnel operations, and high-accountability government organizations. Skilled in workforce planning, policy interpretation, regulatory compliance, employee support, records management, case resolution, and process improvement. Proven ability to advise leadership, resolve complex administrative issues, support geographically dispersed teams, and translate complex policies into accurate, actionable procedures.

Recognized for strong organization, sound judgment, and a consistent focus on service quality and operational efficiency.

Payroll and HR Operations Specialist at Strategic Data Systems — MyNavy Career Center (2026-07 – Present)

• Serve as a subject matter expert and program advisor for Navy-wide payroll and personnel administration, supporting the Chief of Naval Personnel and Commander, Navy Personnel Command.
• Interpret and implement federal statutes, legislative changes, and military pay and personnel regulations to promote compliance and consistent execution across Navy personnel operations.
• Develop, update, and disseminate payroll and HR policies, procedures, and operational guidance to pay and personnel departments supporting deployable ships, squadrons, and shore-based commands.
• Provide policy guidance on payroll, personnel, and travel administration affecting active-duty service members, reservists, retirees, veterans, and their families.
• Translate complex regulatory requirements into actionable procedures that promote accuracy, consistency, and compliance across geographically dispersed payroll and HR operations.
• Provide benefits counseling and administrative support regarding the GI Bill, military and veteran insurance programs, education benefits, and incentive bonuses.
• Interpret eligibility requirements and benefits policies to provide accurate guidance and resolve complex benefits-related inquiries.

HR Representative at Strategic Data Systems — MyNavy Career Center (2025-05 – 2026-07)

• Served as the first point of contact in a multi-tiered support environment, providing HR and benefits assistance to military personnel, veterans, and their families throughout the United States and overseas.
• Maintained an average 91% efficiency rating across customer service, case resolution, data entry, and administrative support functions.
• Investigated and resolved customer inquiries through phone, email, chat, electronic fax, and other communication channels, delivering accurate and timely solutions.
• Provided guidance on military personnel programs, benefits, and administrative processes by interpreting policies and using multiple internal and external resources.
• Leveraged CRM systems, enterprise software, telephone applications, and web-based platforms to document interactions, process requests, and maintain accurate customer records.
• Entered and verified sensitive customer information across multiple systems and electronic forms, ensuring data accuracy, completeness, and compliance with established procedures.
• Earned consideration for supervisory and specialized team assignments based on technical proficiency, job performance, and operational effectiveness.

Senior Workforce Advisor / Payroll & Benefits Advisor at United States Navy (2011-12 – 2025-05)

• Advised executive leadership teams on workforce strategy, retention planning, and personnel readiness across multiple commands and units supporting 500+ personnel.
• Counseled thousands of service members on career development, benefits, personnel actions, and workforce planning.
• Led retention initiatives that increased unit retention to 86% across multiple commands.
• Managed sensitive payroll and personnel records, maintaining accountability and supporting audit compliance.
• Served as a liaison between executive leadership and centralized personnel offices to resolve complex administrative and workforce issues.
• Streamlined personnel documentation workflows, contributing to a reported 90% improvement in operational efficiency across multiple locations.
• Developed and delivered workforce planning training materials and presentations to support leadership decision-making.

Associate of Science in Management – Tidewater Community College

Registered Apprenticeship in Computer Operator – United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP), U.S. Department of Labor (2020-10)