Aphis Executive and Leadership Team

Melissa Tharp, the MRPBS Deputy Administrator and MRP Chief Operating Officer at Aphis, directs the operational and administrative functions of the agency, focusing on the efficiency of business services and resource management. By overseeing the implementation of operational strategies, Tharp ensures that the agency maintains the capacity to deliver high-quality government services. This role involves managing the financial and human resource frameworks that support the entire organization. Melissa Tharp coordinates with other C-suite leaders to align operational activities with the agency's strategic objectives, ensuring that all departments have the necessary support to succeed. Through the optimization of business processes, the MRPBS Deputy Administrator and MRP Chief Operating Officer drives the efficiency and accountability required in the public sector. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of government operations and the ability to manage large-scale organizational change. Ultimately, Tharp secures the operational foundation of the agency, enabling the successful execution of its mission.

Amanda Redford, the Chief of Staff at Aphis, directs high-level administrative workflows and coordinates cross-departmental initiatives to ensure organizational alignment. By managing executive communications and prioritizing critical government projects, Redford optimizes the flow of information between leadership and internal teams. This role involves synthesizing complex policy requirements into actionable directives that support the broader mission of Aphis. Amanda Redford maintains oversight of internal governance protocols, ensuring compliance with federal standards while driving efficiency across all operational units. Through the facilitation of strategic meetings and the management of key stakeholder relationships, the Chief of Staff secures the necessary resources for mission-critical programs. This leadership position requires constant vigilance regarding shifting regulatory environments, allowing the organization to adapt rapidly to new mandates. Ultimately, Redford strengthens the internal framework of the agency, fostering a culture of accountability and precision in every government-led initiative.

Angela Messinger, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Aphis, supports the execution of administrative priorities and manages the daily operational cadence of the executive office. By streamlining internal processes, Messinger enhances the capacity of the leadership team to address urgent government mandates. This role focuses on the implementation of organizational policies that govern large-scale public sector projects. Angela Messinger monitors the progress of key initiatives, ensuring that departmental goals remain synchronized with the overarching strategic vision of the agency. Through the coordination of inter-agency collaboration, the Deputy Chief of Staff facilitates the seamless delivery of services across regional jurisdictions. This position demands a deep understanding of bureaucratic structures and the ability to navigate complex administrative challenges. By refining internal workflows and fostering clear communication channels, Messinger drives the operational excellence required to maintain the high standards expected within the government industry.

Laura Blanton, the Veterinary Services Chief of Staff at Aphis, manages the administrative and strategic functions of the veterinary division to ensure the health and safety of national animal populations. By overseeing the integration of veterinary policy with field operations, Blanton ensures that all regulatory actions align with current scientific standards. This role involves coordinating with technical experts to address emerging biological threats and maintaining the integrity of animal health programs. Laura Blanton directs the allocation of resources for veterinary diagnostics and surveillance, ensuring that the agency remains prepared for large-scale health crises. Through the management of complex logistical networks, the Veterinary Services Chief of Staff supports the deployment of field teams across diverse geographic regions. This leadership role requires constant interaction with scientific boards and government stakeholders to refine response strategies. Ultimately, Blanton secures the operational continuity of vital veterinary services, protecting the agricultural and public health interests of the nation.

Susan Shriner, the Chief of Staff, Animal Care at Aphis, oversees the administrative framework governing animal welfare programs and regulatory compliance. By directing the implementation of animal care standards, Shriner ensures that all operations meet federal requirements for humane treatment and safety. This role involves managing the strategic planning of inspection programs and coordinating with field personnel to enforce regulatory policies. Susan Shriner facilitates the communication between policy makers and operational teams, ensuring that animal care initiatives remain effective and scalable. Through the analysis of compliance data, the Chief of Staff, Animal Care identifies areas for process improvement and resource optimization. This position requires a deep commitment to maintaining the ethical standards of the agency while navigating the complexities of government oversight. By fostering collaboration across departments, Shriner drives the successful execution of animal welfare mandates, ultimately strengthening the agency's impact on national animal health and safety.

Sean Blount, the Deputy Chief Information Officer, Acting MRP-ITD at Aphis, architects the digital infrastructure and information technology strategies that support the agency's mission-critical data systems. By managing the modernization of IT platforms, Blount ensures that the organization maintains secure and efficient access to vital government information. This role involves overseeing the deployment of advanced data analytics tools that assist in monitoring and reporting on agency activities. Sean Blount coordinates with technical teams to implement robust cybersecurity measures, protecting sensitive information from evolving digital threats. Through the alignment of technology investments with strategic business goals, the Deputy Chief Information Officer, Acting MRP-ITD optimizes the digital capabilities of the entire agency. This leadership position requires a focus on scalability and reliability, ensuring that IT systems support the high-volume demands of government operations. Ultimately, Blount drives the digital transformation of the agency, enabling more effective decision-making and operational transparency.

Nevada Trepanowski, the Strategic & Operational Planning Remote Chief of Staff at Aphis, designs the long-term planning frameworks that guide the agency's resource allocation and operational focus. By analyzing market trends and government requirements, Trepanowski develops strategic roadmaps that enhance the agency's ability to respond to national needs. This role involves coordinating with various departments to ensure that operational plans are executed with precision and consistency. Nevada Trepanowski manages the integration of remote operational strategies, allowing the agency to maintain high performance across dispersed geographic locations. Through the facilitation of planning sessions and the monitoring of performance metrics, the Strategic & Operational Planning Remote Chief of Staff ensures that all initiatives remain aligned with the core mission. This position requires a forward-thinking approach to problem-solving and the ability to synthesize complex data into actionable strategies. Ultimately, Trepanowski drives the organizational agility necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of government service delivery.

Kira Wagner, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Aphis, manages the internal administrative operations and supports the executive leadership in executing agency-wide initiatives. By overseeing the daily workflow of the office, Wagner ensures that all administrative tasks are completed with accuracy and efficiency. This role involves coordinating with various divisions to facilitate the smooth implementation of government policies and programs. Kira Wagner monitors the progress of key projects, providing the necessary support to overcome operational bottlenecks and ensure timely delivery. Through the management of executive schedules and the preparation of critical briefings, the Deputy Chief of Staff enables the leadership team to focus on high-level strategic decisions. This position requires a strong ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced government environment. By fostering clear communication and maintaining rigorous standards, Wagner drives the operational success of the agency, ensuring that all administrative functions support the broader mission of public service.

Frank Tortella, the Deputy Chief of Staff, APHIS VS DIAGNOSTICS AND BIOLOGICS at Aphis, directs the administrative and operational support for the diagnostics and biologics division. By coordinating the regulatory review processes for veterinary products, Tortella ensures that all biologics meet the safety and efficacy standards required for national use. This role involves managing the interface between the agency and external stakeholders, including industry partners and research institutions. Frank Tortella oversees the allocation of resources for diagnostic testing programs, ensuring that the agency maintains the capacity to detect and respond to biological threats. Through the implementation of streamlined administrative procedures, the Deputy Chief of Staff, APHIS VS DIAGNOSTICS AND BIOLOGICS enhances the efficiency of the regulatory approval process. This position requires a deep understanding of the technical and legal requirements governing veterinary diagnostics. Ultimately, Tortella secures the integrity of the nation's biological safety framework through diligent oversight and strategic management.

Stephanie Brault, the Chief of Staff, Veterinary Services Deputy Administrator at Aphis, manages the administrative operations and strategic initiatives for the veterinary services division. By supporting the Deputy Administrator, Brault ensures that all veterinary programs are executed in accordance with federal policy and scientific best practices. This role involves coordinating the efforts of various teams to address animal health challenges and maintain the stability of the agricultural sector. Stephanie Brault facilitates the communication between the leadership team and field operations, ensuring that strategic goals are translated into effective action. Through the management of complex administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff, Veterinary Services Deputy Administrator optimizes the use of resources and improves the overall performance of the division. This position requires a focus on long-term planning and the ability to navigate the complexities of government health mandates. Ultimately, Brault drives the success of veterinary initiatives, protecting the health and safety of the nation's animal populations.