Open to opportunities

Akeel Gaines

@akeelgaines

Message

Experienced leader in organizational development and community impact.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that allows me to leverage my leadership skills to foster teamwork and drive community impact.

With over 20 years of experience in organizational leadership and administration, I have dedicated my career to fostering positive change and growth within communities. My extensive background includes personal and community program development, small business startup processes, and teaching in various capacities, from small groups to large platforms. I hold a Secret Security Clearance, demonstrating my ability to handle sensitive information with integrity.

Currently, I serve as the Regional Director at the New Jersey Small Business Development Center, where I oversee client services, program delivery, and staff compliance. My role involves monitoring trends in entrepreneurship, piloting innovative programs, and ensuring the financial health of the region. I am passionate about empowering small business owners through one-on-one consulting and training, and I actively engage with community organizations to enhance service planning and development.

Previously, I held the position of Chief Operations Officer in the United States Army, where I managed a large team and ensured operational excellence across multiple units. My experience in strategic development, fiscal administration, and personnel management has equipped me with the skills necessary to lead diverse teams and drive organizational success. I am committed to continuous improvement and professional development, always striving to create an environment of teamwork and collaboration.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Adjunct Professor

Current

Atlantic Cape Community College

Aug 2022 - Present (2 years 11 months)

Developed and managed syllabus materials for successful course navigation, and coordinated courseware and curriculum with academic department requirements. Evaluated student performance, provided effective feedback, and ensured prompt grade determinations.

material selection Professional Development Interpersonal Communication Subject Matter Expertise

Current

Regional Director

Current

New Jersey Small Business Development Center

Apr 2025 - Present (3 months)

Ensured client services development, database management, monitoring, and reporting, overseeing client services program delivery in the form of one-on-one counseling, training, marketing, and special public events. Monitored trends in entrepreneurship and small business, locally, nationally, and internationally, to ensure that programs remained innovative and current.

Client Services Database Management entrepreneurship Small Business Strategic Planning Budget Management Staff Training Fundraising

Chief Operations Officer Command Sergeant Major

United States Army

Sep 2004 - Aug 2025 (20 years 11 months)

Ensured the organization's performance, training, appearance, and conduct met policy standards for over 350 personnel, and managed over 50 staff members daily. Provided fiscal advice and recommendations in personnel management and strategic operations, assisting the organization in solving problems at all echelons.

Personnel Management Training Development Data Analysis Talent Management Project Management Quality Improvement

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Stockton University

Doctorate of Organizational Leadership, Organizational Leadership

Completed a doctoral program focused on organizational leadership. The curriculum likely covered advanced topics in leadership theory, organizational behavior, and strategic management.

United States Army

Undergraduate Certificate, Leadership and Workforce Development

Obtained an undergraduate certificate in Leadership and Workforce Development. This program likely focused on foundational principles of leadership and strategies for developing a skilled workforce.

United States Army

Certificate, Organizational Group Facilitation

Completed a program in Organizational Group Facilitation. This training likely provided skills in leading and managing group dynamics within an organizational context.

Rowan University

Certificate of Graduate Study, Wellness Coaching

Earned a Certificate of Graduate Study in Wellness Coaching. This program likely focused on principles and practices of coaching individuals towards improved wellness and lifestyle.

United States Army

Certificate, Organizational Leadership Development

Completed a program in Organizational Leadership Development. This training likely focused on developing leadership skills and strategies within an organizational setting.

Rowan University

Master of Arts, Wellness and Lifestyle Management

Obtained a Master of Arts in Wellness and Lifestyle Management. This graduate program likely covered advanced topics in promoting health, well-being, and sustainable lifestyle changes.