The finalists for WashingtonExec’s 2024 Pinnacle Awards were announced Sept. 20, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person Nov. 21.
Next is Navi Samra, director of national security at MetroStar, and finalist in the DHS Executive of the Year, Private Company, category. Here, she talks about recent achievements, shares career advice and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2024?
I am highly engaged in supporting current USCIS delivery and laying the foundation for more data driven approaches to support and report on system data quality for the Person Centric Identity Services. I saw my role as helping to provide structure and a framework for how we presented complicated technical information to senior leaders within USCIS in ways that translated to business value and tangible, data-driven outcomes. This information is/will continue to be used to help these leaders prioritize and decide on what work needs to be done and how it’s improving PCIS.
I mentor and grow team members (paying it forward because I’ve had great mentors myself). Examples of this include empowering a program manager to present at stage reviews and demonstrate his understanding of his client space; mentoring participants of MetroStar’s first ever International Women’s Day mentor/mentee sessions; and identifying and charting career progression paths with junior developers on project.
I submitted a white paper to USCIS on recommendations around how to simplify their procurement strategy for an upcoming UX and strategy opportunity while meeting small business goals and mission objectives.
Developing new and strengthening existing relationships with other vendors in the DHS space Whether for previously submitted, active, or future bids, I invested a lot of energy into identifying and partnering with other companies on deals with shared goals like customer mission/delivery, open communication/transparency, and the ability to offer innovative solutions. This has been a great opportunity for me to be my authentic self while collaborating on opportunities and growing my network.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
Ensuring client success. This is so important because the missions we support in DHS are near and dear to my heart. I intentionally joined this field after 9/11, wanting to make a difference in national security.
Strengthen my network within the DHS community. I believe in learning and gaining a better understanding of the issues that DHS faces. I also recognize that different companies bring different strengths and features that help ensure we’re offering a holistic approach to best deliver success for the client.
Giving back to the national security community through involvement in industry organizations to support events and publications.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
To be your authentic self and to continue to value the human elements of the work we do — that means getting to know and appreciate your colleagues, clients, and team members and valuing the uniqueness of their perspectives, ideas and talents.
Fun Fact: What is something about you that most people do not know about? (Hobbies, passions, etc?)
I’m a 90s alternative music aficionado, and I love to play golf.