Suzana Chowdhury - Key Community Highlights
Key Executive Leadership Programs
Advancing Federal Government Leaders through Executive Education – Top Ranked Executive MPA #4 by US News & World Report
In the all-new Key Community Highlights series, we are putting the spotlight on Key alumni and current students, who share what they do, what inspires them, and Key's impact on their career.
Suzana Chowdhury
Key Cohort: OIG Emerging Leaders (EmL) 33
Position & Title: Sr. Auditor, Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR)
Can you briefly describe what you do for work?
I am responsible for leading audits and evaluations to provide independent and objective oversight of Afghanistan reconstruction projects and activities.
How has participating in the Key Programs affected your professional/leadership journey?
The EmL 33 program helped me to focus more on relationship building and improve employee engagement and efficiency. I find that motivated employees are more engaged and happier in the workplace. These skills also help to avoid and/or mitigate conflict altogether.
How do the teachings in the Key Programs align with achieving your organization's mission?
As an Auditor in Charge, I am constantly in a position of negotiation. The EmL 33 program prepared me to negotiate and address the differing ideals of my team members in a more constructive way. The program equipped me to understand the interest of my team members and helped me to navigate in finding long term solutions that satisfies the need of the audit/evaluation, the team member, and ultimately, the organizational goals.
What are some exciting developments you see coming in the future for public service?
It is an exciting development to see the public sector include diversity as part of the agencies strategic plan as per the requirement of Executive Order 14035: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in the Federal Workforce. I am looking forward to seeing the contribution of employees in driving diversity in the public sector. Moreover, I am hoping there is an ongoing effort by leaders to (1) attract qualified, diverse applicants for employment and (2) identify, and develop a diverse pool of talent for succession planning.
Can you describe one of your greatest accomplishments at (or outside of) work?
My greatest accomplishment has been to build a culture of trust with my supervisors, peers, and team.
What is something that has inspired you recently?
The power of genuine support and constant encouragement to others through periods of difficult times.
Key Community Playlist
Need some motivation? Here's some music that helps our Key students and alumni get inspired and energized!