Standing Ovation: Angela Eccles

The Institute for Security Governance (ISG) is comprised of a diverse team of experienced individuals. Ms. Angela Eccles is no exception, as is evidenced by her impressive arc of achievements throughout her career. Her time at ISG is especially notable, prompting us to thank her for her contributions and honor her with this Standing Ovation highlight. Ms. Eccles joined the ISG in February 2008 as a member of the contract support team, having served in multiple roles during her tenure In September 2022, Ms. Eccles transitioned to a government role, leading the Institute Operation’s Budget and Finance Team. As the Budget Analyst Lead, Ms. Eccles provides direct oversight of programming, budgeting, execution, and review of the Institute’s various funding sources to include one-year and multi-year accounts under multiple appropriations and authorities. We recently asked Ms. Eccles a few questions to learn more about her work and her inspiration and to share the answers with her colleagues.??

Can you share a brief overview of your professional journey and the key milestones that have led you to your current role? ? ?

Soon after graduating from college, I spent numerous years in the non-profit sector, then private industry, before working with the Department of Defense (DoD) as a defense contractor. As a DoD contractor, I grew my skills from contract administration to finance, eventually leading the program support and finance teams. When the Center for Civil Military Relations transitioned to the Institute for Security Governance in April 2019, my role evolved to that of Finance Manager for the contracted finance team, which was a tremendous growth experience and key milestone.??

Another significant milestone was learning how to lead in a remote environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. My role as a manager changed, and I had to adapt accordingly. From finding numerous ways to build camaraderie to creating opportunities for effective communication, it was a humbling experience, and not without hiccups. However, it also taught me how to succeed in a challenging environment, creating both personal and professional resilience. During the pandemic, I began an MPA program, another key milestone, which tested my abilities, expanded my capacity for learning, and helped me realize how much I could accomplish.?

What are some of the most significant projects or achievements you've been involved in during your time at ISG, and how do you feel they have impacted the organization or your team?? ?

One of the most significant achievements has been my contribution to the justification in receiving funding for unfunded requirements (UFRs). Over the last five years, I’ve helped ISG obtain approximately $14M in UFRs, allowing for increased Security Cooperation execution and associated support costs.??

Another significant endeavor was the transition from the Defense Institution Reform Initiative (DIRI) and Wales Initiative Funds (WIF) funding to ISG and International Security Cooperation Program (ISCP) funds for Title 10 Institutional Capacity Building projects. This transition required significant churn and realignment of duties, increasing the entire team’s workload exponentially. We finally have a great system for tracking and execution, but it has been a team effort.??

Finally, attaining my MPA while working full time (and changing jobs!) was hugely significant for me. I appreciated being able to apply what I learned in real-world situations in my daily work.??

Many people find inspiration and motivation in various places. Are there any role models, mentors, or personal experiences that have shaped your career and approach to your work? How have they influenced your professional development??

It may sound a bit cliché, but my mother continues to be a source of motivation, as she instilled in me at an early age that hard work, dedication, and resiliency are cornerstones to success.??

An early role model in my professional career was the Executive Director at the non-profit I worked for. He was tough but fair, and unwaveringly honest, earning the respect of those who worked with and for him.??

There have been multiple leaders within ISG that have helped me develop both personally and professionally. I owe a great deal to them as they helped me develop and build my skillset and confidence, particularly during my transition from contractor to government. Additionally, my team (both government and contractor) continues to provide me with the motivation and drive to improve, specifically where I have had to adapt both communication and teaching styles among a diverse team. Their impressive and varying backgrounds remind me there is more than one way to learn, lead, and teach.???

ISG has seen its needs evolve over the years. How would you describe how you've adapted and transformed your skills and approaches to align with ISG's changing requirements? What advice encouragement would you give to others who are just starting out or might need a fresh look at their career path? ? ?

Over the last 15 years, I have watched ISG transform many times, and one must remain flexible and open to change, even though change can be incredibly difficult. For folks starting out, I would say do not be afraid to fail and to ask for help when needed. That also includes communicating failures, learning from them, then moving on. Excellent and honest communication and accountability help build trust.?

What is one piece of advice you would offer your colleagues??

"One piece of advice to my colleagues is to maintain enthusiasm and dedication to the mission, even during challenging times or with mundane tasks. Demonstrating excellence daily allows leadership to see your commitment, which can lead to growth opportunities.?"

We are extremely fortunate to include accomplished professionals like Ms. Eccles among our ranks and are pleased to offer this Standing Ovation from ISG’s leadership and colleagues. Angela, you are a tremendous leader and teammate, and we are inspired by your journey and your achievements.??