MARLO E. JOHNSON
Pikesville
Summary
Dynamic and highly experienced compliance and socioeconomic program leader with over 20 years of progressive expertise in overseeing Disadvantage Business Enterprise (DBE), Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Small Business Enterprise (SBE), Veteran Small Business Enterprise (VSBE), Micro Business Program (MBP), Small Business Program (SBP), Small Business Reserve (SBR), and Preferred Provider Program (PPP) programs across multiple Maryland state agencies and WMATA. Proven success in policy development, contract compliance, certification management, and federal reporting under 49 CFR Part 26, complemented by strong abilities in managing large program portfolios and monitoring compliance across 180+ contracts. Recognized for building robust relationships with stakeholders and delivering impactful training to government liaisons while advancing equitable participation of small and minority businesses in public contracting. A strategic problem solver committed to regulatory precision and community engagement, dedicated to fostering partnerships that enhance program participation and improve quality of life in marginalized communities.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
SBPO Contract Compliance Manager (G14)
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)
Hyattsville, MD
08.2019 - 07.2026
- Oversaw socioeconomic programs and ensured contractor compliance through audits and outreach.
- Co-chaired Procurement Review Committee to identify and facilitate subcontracting opportunities.
- Prepared semi-annual and tri-annual FTA reports, contributing to corrective action plans.
- Improved communication channels between departments by establishing regular meetings and reporting structures related to compliance matters.
- Developed and implemented compliance policies to ensure regulatory adherence across all operational areas.
- Led cross-departmental training sessions on compliance processes and best practices for staff members.
- Streamlined reporting processes, ensuring timely submissions of compliance documentation to regulatory bodies.
- Mentored junior compliance staff, fostering professional development and enhancing team performance.
- Analyzed regulatory changes, updating policies and procedures to maintain alignment with new legislation.
- Reduced risk exposure for the company by identifying and addressing areas of noncompliance.
Small Business Program Office (SBPO) Certification & Outreach Manager (G14)
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)
Hyattsville, MD
07.2022 - 01.2026
- Managed comprehensive certification and renewal operations for DBE, MBE, MBP, SBE, and SBP programs, safeguarding compliance with applicable regulations.
- Conducted thorough evaluations of policies governing DC Unified Certification Program (DCUCP) and WMATA's DBE plan to ensure compliance and effectiveness.
- Led staff training initiatives aimed at boosting team performance. Oversaw audit inquiries, guiding teams through compliance processes. Formulated strategic corrective action plans to drive operational improvements.
- Managed community outreach efforts aimed at increasing program visibility and engagement, while upholding compliance with 49 CFR Part 26.
- Facilitated partnerships with non-federal agencies to support community initiatives and programs.
DBE/MBE/SBE/VSBE Compliance Manager (STD 18, Step 20)
Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) – Maryland Transit Administration (MTA)
Baltimore, MD
01.2018 - 08.2019
- Monitored compliance for 180+ contracts and prepared FTA and MBE reports to ensure regulatory adherence.
- Developed policies and trained government liaisons on DBE/MBE procedures to enhance understanding and implementation.
- Engaged with stakeholders at MTA liaison meetings and trade shows to strengthen partnerships.
- Developed and implemented compliance programs ensuring adherence to federal and state regulations.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to enhance understanding of compliance requirements and processes.
- Prepared detailed reports on compliance status for senior management review, highlighting key issues and recommendations.
MBE/SBR/PPP/VSBE Manager (STD 18, Step 19)
Department of Juvenile Services (DJS)
Baltimore, MD
06.2015 - 12.2017
- Chaired Procurement Review Group (PRG); reviewed waiver requests and ensured vendor compliance.
- Chaired Procurement Review Group (PRG), reviewing waiver requests and ensuring vendor compliance to support procurement integrity.
- Provided training sessions to staff on best practices and company policies. and coordinated outreach events.
- Oversaw staff training and development, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Established best practices for compliance with state regulations and organizational policies.
- Developed and maintained relationships with customers and suppliers through account development.
- Achieved departmental goals by developing and executing strategic plans and performance metrics.
Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Manager
Maryland Judiciary
Annapolis, MD
05.2013 - 06.2015
- Established participation goals and ensured contractor compliance through regular monitoring.
- Organized outreach events and trained liaisons on MBE policies to enhance community engagement.
- Implemented training programs for staff to improve service delivery and compliance standards.
- Streamlined communication protocols between departments, promoting collaboration and information sharing.
- Developed policies to enhance procedural compliance and maintain judicial integrity across operations.
- Managed and motivated employees to be productive and engaged in work.
- Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving disputes promptly, maintaining open lines of communication, and ensuring high-quality service delivery.
- Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
- Developed and maintained relationships with customers and suppliers through account development.
- Achieved departmental goals by developing and executing strategic plans and performance metrics.
- Improved marketing to attract new customers and promote business.
Manager, Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Program
Maryland Environmental Services (MES)
Millersville, MD
09.2012 - 05.2013
- Managed MBE compliance and outreach initiatives; evaluated policy effectiveness to enhance program alignment.
- Compiled and presented monthly reports for GOMA while training agency liaisons on compliance protocols.
- Directed operational strategies to enhance waste management efficiency across multiple projects.
- Managed cross-functional teams to implement sustainable environmental practices and compliance initiatives.
- Developed and executed training programs for staff on environmental regulations and safety protocols.
- Developed partnerships with local agencies to promote sustainable practices in community services.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams to achieve organizational goals and objectives efficiently.
- Coordinated with IT department to upgrade technology infrastructure, enhancing operational efficiency and data security.
MBE & SBR Compliance Manager (STD 18, Step 4)
Maryland Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA)
Glen Burnie, MD
04.2008 - 09.2012
- Chaired PRG meetings, facilitating discussions to drive accountability and transparency in reporting.
- Supervised staff, ensuring adherence to MBE/SBR goals to promote equitable participation in state contracting.
- Conducted risk assessments and audits to identify compliance gaps and recommend corrective actions.
- Provided training and guidance to staff on regulatory compliance requirements and best practices.
- Developed and implemented compliance policies ensuring adherence to state regulations.
- Conducted regular audits to assess compliance with federal and state transportation laws.
- Trained staff on compliance standards and best practices, promoting a culture of accountability.
- Analyzed regulatory changes, advising management on necessary adjustments to compliance strategies.
- Prepared detailed reports for senior management outlining compliance trends and risk assessments.
- Prepared records and data for regular audits.
- Succeeded in maintaining a positive relationship with regulators through proactive engagement and timely responses to inquiries.
- Enhanced overall business operations by continuously improving policies, procedures, and controls related to compliance requirements.
MBE Contract Coordinator (STD 15)
Maryland Transportation Authority (MdTA)
Dundalk, MD
10.2006 - 04.2008
- Reviewed MBE forms and waiver requests to ensure compliance with contract terms.
- Recommended goal percentages and coordinated PRG meetings to align project objectives.
- Coordinated contract documentation and procurement processes to ensure compliance with state regulations.
- Assisted in developing and implementing contract management procedures to enhance operational efficiency.
- Maintained accurate records of contracts, amendments, and performance metrics for stakeholder review.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory requirements by maintaining accurate records and staying current on industry changes.
Medical Care Program Specialist II (STD 13)
Department of Mental Health and Hygiene (DHMH)
07.2003 - 10.2006
- Managed vendor contracts, renewals, and RFPs to ensure compliance with MBE goals.
- Coordinated work groups to streamline decision-making processes and enhance collaboration.
- Developed and implemented program policies to enhance mental health service delivery.
- Coordinated training sessions for staff to improve program outcomes and compliance.
Income Maintenance Specialist II
Department of Human Resources – Baltimore County DSS
03.1998 - 07.2003
- Assessed eligibility for assistance programs and trained new employees on CARES procedures to ensure compliance and effective service delivery.
- Tracked client engagement in work programs to support program effectiveness and client accountability.
- Conducted routine inspections to identify maintenance needs and ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Developed maintenance schedules to optimize equipment performance and minimize downtime.
- Trained new staff on operational protocols and safety procedures for maintenance tasks.
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Business Administration
The College of Notre Dame of Maryland
Baltimore05-1994
Skills
- Community engagement
- Marketing strategy
- Community training
- Staff management
- Excel
- FMIS
- IFMIS
- Program Initiatives
- Public Education
- Problem solving
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Team collaboration
Certification
American Contract Compliance Association (ACCA) – Bachelor's Degree (August 2014)
Awards
Governor’s Citation – Recognition of Contribution to Small and Minority Business (April 2019)
Salary Requirements
Negotiable
Timeline
Small Business Program Office (SBPO) Certification & Outreach Manager (G14)
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)
07.2022 - 01.2026
SBPO Contract Compliance Manager (G14)
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)
08.2019 - 07.2026
DBE/MBE/SBE/VSBE Compliance Manager (STD 18, Step 20)
Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) – Maryland Transit Administration (MTA)
01.2018 - 08.2019
MBE/SBR/PPP/VSBE Manager (STD 18, Step 19)
Department of Juvenile Services (DJS)
06.2015 - 12.2017
Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Manager
Maryland Judiciary
05.2013 - 06.2015
Manager, Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Program
Maryland Environmental Services (MES)
09.2012 - 05.2013
MBE & SBR Compliance Manager (STD 18, Step 4)
Maryland Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA)
04.2008 - 09.2012
MBE Contract Coordinator (STD 15)
Maryland Transportation Authority (MdTA)
10.2006 - 04.2008
Medical Care Program Specialist II (STD 13)
Department of Mental Health and Hygiene (DHMH)
07.2003 - 10.2006
Income Maintenance Specialist II
Department of Human Resources – Baltimore County DSS
03.1998 - 07.2003
Bachelor's Degree - Business Administration
The College of Notre Dame of Maryland