Joan Russell
Director of Administration and Finance
As one of Symmetra Design’s longest tenured associates, Joan joined the team in 2009. Her administrative role includes collaborative strategic planning, managing business operations, facilitating the hiring process, review of talent acquisition, employee training & development, and the renewal of professional licenses & certifications. Joan’s fiscal oversight is to ensure financial integrity and compliance reporting.
Joan maintains internal controls with business planning and budgeting. Her other focus areas are marketing, business development, Information Technology, and corporate vendor management.
Joan earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Howard University and a Master of Science in Management - Human Resources from the University of Maryland.
What do you enjoy about working at Symmetra Design?
I enjoy working for a small company because you can really see the results of your work and your decisions have an impact on the operations. There are times when you have to wear multiple hats so there is never a dull moment.
What are your interests outside of work?
Traveling, Family, and Friends! I love the islands of the Caribbean, especially Jamaica. I have also enjoyed traveling to Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands. When not working or traveling, I can be found spending time with family and friends. On the rare occasion I get time to myself, I can be found curled up with a cup of hot tea and a good book.
What excites you about the future of transportation?
Having elderly parents, with one having mobility issues, has made me look at ADA compliance and access in a different manner.