Aphis Executive and Leadership Team

Melissa Tharp, the MRPBS Deputy Administrator and MRP Chief Operating Officer at Aphis, manages significant operational divisions and administrative functions. Tharp's leadership ensures the effective execution of programs related to animal health and disease prevention, critical for national biosecurity. This role is central to maintaining the operational integrity and strategic direction of key agency components. By overseeing resource allocation and operational efficiency, Melissa Tharp drives performance improvements across multiple departments. The position demands a deep understanding of public health policy and operational management within a government setting. Tharp's strategic oversight supports the advancement of Aphis's core mission. This executive's influence is crucial for the agency's success in safeguarding animal populations and agricultural interests.

Amanda Redford, the Chief of Staff at Aphis, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the organization. Overseeing critical administrative functions, Redford ensures seamless execution of the agency's mission. This leadership position involves coordinating departmental efforts to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in government operations. By managing key projects and stakeholder communications, Amanda Redford drives progress in critical areas. The role demands a comprehensive understanding of government protocols and strategic planning to support the agency's objectives. Redford's oversight extends to resource allocation and policy implementation, ensuring all activities adhere to regulatory standards and contribute to the overall success of Aphis. This executive ensures the smooth functioning of daily operations and supports the broader strategic vision.

Laura Blanton, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Aphis, supports the Chief of Staff in executing strategic directives and managing operational workflows. Blanton's responsibilities include facilitating inter-departmental collaboration and ensuring timely project completion. This role is crucial for maintaining organizational coherence and driving forward key government initiatives. By analyzing operational data and identifying areas for improvement, Laura Blanton contributes to enhanced agency performance. The position requires meticulous attention to detail and a strong capacity for problem-solving within a complex government framework. Blanton's efforts focus on optimizing resource utilization and streamlining processes to support Aphis's mission. This executive's work directly impacts the agency's ability to respond effectively to evolving challenges and opportunities in the government sector.

Kira Wagner, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Aphis, provides critical support for strategic planning and operational management. Wagner's focus includes enhancing communication channels and ensuring alignment with agency-wide goals. This role is vital for the effective implementation of government programs and policies. By overseeing specific project portfolios, Kira Wagner ensures that objectives are met within established timelines and budgets. The position demands a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating operational risks. Wagner's contributions are essential for maintaining the momentum of Aphis's strategic agenda. This executive's work facilitates efficient decision-making and supports the overall mission of the agency in the government industry.

Frank Tortella, the Deputy Chief of Staff, APHIS VS DIAGNOSTICS AND BIOLOGICS at Aphis, directs specialized operational functions within the diagnostics and biologics sector. Tortella's leadership ensures the integrity and advancement of critical laboratory services and biological product oversight. This role is paramount for maintaining public health and agricultural safety standards. By managing complex scientific operations and regulatory compliance, Frank Tortella upholds the agency's commitment to excellence. The position requires deep expertise in biological sciences and diagnostic methodologies. Tortella's strategic direction supports innovation and efficiency in Aphis's diagnostic and biologics programs. This executive's efforts are fundamental to the agency's capacity to address emerging threats and ensure the safety of animal health products.

Sean Blount, the Deputy Chief Information Officer, Acting MRP-ITD at Aphis, leads the information technology division, driving digital transformation and system modernization. Blount's oversight ensures the robust and secure operation of critical IT infrastructure supporting agency-wide functions. This role is essential for leveraging technology to enhance government service delivery and operational efficiency. By architecting scalable IT solutions and managing data security protocols, Sean Blount safeguards sensitive information and supports mission-critical operations. The position demands extensive knowledge of information systems, cybersecurity, and IT governance. Blount's strategic vision guides the development and implementation of advanced technological capabilities for Aphis. This executive's leadership is pivotal in ensuring the agency remains at the forefront of technological innovation within the government sector.

Nevada Trepanowski, the Strategic & Operational Planning Remote Chief of Staff at Aphis, spearheads long-term strategic planning and optimizes operational frameworks. Trepanowski's role involves developing and implementing comprehensive plans to achieve agency objectives and enhance governmental efficiency. This position is critical for aligning departmental activities with the overarching mission and vision of Aphis. By analyzing market trends and operational performance metrics, Nevada Trepanowski identifies opportunities for strategic growth and process improvement. The role requires exceptional foresight and the ability to manage complex planning cycles. Trepanowski's contributions are vital for ensuring Aphis maintains a forward-looking approach to its operations. This executive's expertise drives sustainable development and effective resource management within the government context.

Susan Shriner, the Chief of Staff, Animal Care at Aphis, leads strategic operations and administrative oversight for the Animal Care division. Shriner's focus is on ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare and regulatory compliance across all programs. This role is fundamental to upholding Aphis's commitment to ethical treatment and protection of animals. By coordinating departmental initiatives and managing stakeholder relations, Susan Shriner enhances the effectiveness of animal care policies. The position requires extensive knowledge of animal welfare legislation and operational management. Shriner's leadership drives continuous improvement in animal care practices. This executive's work is vital for maintaining public trust and advancing the agency's mission in animal health and safety.

Angela Messinger, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Aphis, supports the Chief of Staff in orchestrating strategic initiatives and ensuring operational continuity. Messinger's responsibilities include facilitating cross-functional collaboration and driving the implementation of key organizational objectives. This role is essential for maintaining efficient government operations and program delivery. By managing critical projects and streamlining administrative processes, Angela Messinger contributes to enhanced organizational performance. The position requires strong analytical skills and a comprehensive understanding of government agency functions. Messinger's efforts are focused on optimizing resource deployment and supporting strategic decision-making. This executive's contributions are integral to the smooth functioning and overall success of Aphis.

Stephanie Brault, the Chief of Staff, Veterinary Services Deputy Administrator at Aphis, provides strategic leadership and operational support for veterinary services. Brault's role involves ensuring the effective implementation of policies and programs aimed at safeguarding animal health and preventing disease outbreaks. This position is critical for maintaining the integrity of national veterinary services. By coordinating departmental activities and managing key administrative functions, Stephanie Brault enhances the efficiency of veterinary operations. The role demands expertise in public health, veterinary medicine, and governmental administration. Brault's strategic guidance supports Aphis's mission to protect animal populations. This executive's work is vital for ensuring the agency's preparedness and response capabilities in animal health emergencies.