“Community leadership and mentoring of high potential young women needs to begin well before they start their careers.  It is often the things we learn outside formal academic or work environments that have the greatest impact and influence in our lives, which led to the creation of DM&A’s annual Me and My Community_TM event. The program is designed for high school girls with high potential, but limited opportunity for exposure to Central Florida’s female executive leaders.  The premise behind Me and My Community_TM is to expose young women to the importance of community leadership”, says Diane Meiller, President of Diane Meiller and Associates, Inc., a performance excellence consulting firm headquartered in downtown Orlando.

On June 19^th, Diane Meiller and Associates, Inc. hosted the third annual Me and My Community_TM.  This year, the program welcomed outstanding students from nine Orange County high schools to participate in a one-day interactive problem-solving and mentoring event.  Its purpose is to teach high school women the importance of leadership, teamwork, collaboration, professional communication, compromise, and passion in building first class solutions which have the greatest benefit for the holistic success of the community.  In partnership with Junior Achievement of Central Florida, DM&A hosts this all day event for high school women that have been selected by their school administrators based upon academic and leadership potential. The project based format provides participants the opportunity to work with their peers throughout Orange County, while being “mentored” by outstanding female community leaders. This year’s mentors included: Mary Mahoney, Principal at J. Robinson Group; Laura Pooser, Director of Development for the College of Health & Public Affairs at University of Central Florida Foundation; Linda Beach, Senior Publisher at Apartment Finders; Florrie Yee, Senior Consultant at Diane Meiller & Associates, Inc.; and Anne Chinoda, Partner at Strategic Healthcare Solutions.

The day began with a keynote address by Dr. Deborah German, Dean of the College of Medicine at University of Central Florida who described her journey to becoming one of Central Florida’s most influential leaders, and more importantly, the obstacles and failures that shaped her success.  Then, the young women broke into groups to tackle important community issues ranging from unemployment to health care reform to higher education.  Breaking only for a quick lunch donated by Jason’s Deli, the students worked tirelessly to both come up with a solution to their assigned issue and collaborate with other groups to ensure the best outcome for the entire community.  A panel of judges comprised of professional executive women including Judy Holcomb, Professor at the Rosen School of Hospitality at University of Central Florida; Leslie O’Meara-Malfitano, Director of Human Resources at Diane Meiller & Associates, Inc; and Maria Camacho, Vice President of Program Management at Wyndham Vacation Ownership evaluated each team on scorecard criteria including their understanding of the problem, creativity, presentation skills, use of budget, and collaboration with others to select the winning team.

The winning team, a group that focused on the issue of accessible higher education for Central Floridians created a program called S.T.A.R., Soaring Toward Academic Readiness, that offered a seven year curriculum, starting in sixth grade and ending in twelfth, that prepared students for success at a collegiate level.  This group was presented with a monetary reward that they decided to split evenly between the members of the group and a donation to Operation Positive Direction, an Orlando Police Department youth mentoring program.

For mor information about DM&A’s Me and My Community program, click here.

Leslie O’Meara-Malfitano, Director of Human Resources

Diane Meiller and Associates, Incorporated is pleased to welcome Ms. Leslie O’Meara-Malfitano as the Director of Human Resources, where she will have responsibility for managing all aspects of staff augmentation, resource development, and HR policies.  Prior to joining DM&A, Ms. O’Meara-Malfitano held positions in Business and Resource Development for a global Information Technology services and solutions company.  In addition, she spent several years as a Senior Human Resource Generalist for Office Depot, Inc headquartered in Delray Beach, FL where she was responsible for recruiting, staff augmentation, compensation and benefits, employee retention and organizational development for the 400+ employees within the Information Technology division.

Ms. O’Meara-Malfitano earned her undergraduate degree from the Florida State University and her Masters in Human Resource Management from Nova Southeastern University.

Bringing a breadth of skill and experience in staff resource development and retention, Ms. O’Meara-Malfitano is a strong addition to the performance excellence team at Diane Meiller and Associates, Incorporated.

Shannon Brockman, Intern

Donna Lash, Senior Consultant

Donna Lash joins Diane Meiller and Associates as a Senior Consultant.  Ms. Lash has over 20 years of information technology experiences that includes 10 years in leadership positions complimented by 10 years of practical execution in implementation of large scale technology solutions, establishing project management offices, creating strategic sourcing practices emphasizing the importance of vendor management and procurement procedures and defining technology strategy and organizational vision.

Most recently, she was Vice President of Client and Program Management for Wyndham Vacation Ownership where she led the deployment of PMO processes resulting in double digit percent improvement in on-plan project delivery. In addition, she established the strategic sourcing practice focused on vendor selection, contract negotiations and relationship management which drove significant savings related to vendor consolidation and contract re-negotiations.

Prior to Wyndham, Ms. Lash was Vice President of Technology for Cheaptickets.com.  There, she led a team of over 90 software engineers, project managers, business analysts, quality assurance analysts and architects in delivery of online travel distribution and marketing solutions.  In addition, she worked on several merger and acquisitions in the travel distribution industry, establishing repeatable processes for due diligence including creation of business models to estimate and later execute the integration of merging companies.

Bringing a breadth of experience in repeatable, on-plan delivery of complex business solutions in the hospitality, travel distribution, retail, telecom and financial industries, Ms. Lash is a strong addition to the performance excellence team at Diane Meiller and Associates, Incorporated.

DM&A’s President Addresses Economy

As we head into the second quarter of 2009, the shock of 2008 has faded, and our desire to build an even stronger economy increases, we continually assess our objectives, values, and contribution both professionally and personally.  Over the past several months, I’ve had the opportunity to meet with numerous colleagues, clients, consultants, industry and community leaders, and overall job seekers, about where we are today and expectations for the future, and it never ceases to impress me how motivated and realistically optimistic most people are about the path of our community and economic prospects for the future.

In February, I was fortunate to be included in a delegation of local leaders accompanying Mayor Crotty on a Metro Orlando EDC on a trip to Dubai.  Similar to Orlando, Dubai’s main industry is tourism, with an additional focus on building a health care city to provide world class medical services in the Mid-East.  Some of the trip’s highlights included meeting with the head of transportation in Dubai and learning about the rapid implementation of a rail system, which transports tourists, residents, and business people throughout the city via a modern, convenient commuter rail system.

We were present when Anne Chinoda, The CEO of Florida’s Blood Centers, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Minister of Health for the United Arab Emirates, which initiates the first-ever collaborative blood cell research effort between her organization and the UAE Health Administration.  Additionally, we met with Central Florida executives currently doing business in the Middle-East, as well as numerous other leaders of health care and hospitality organizations.  The common comment by many of those that we met with was how surprised and impressed they were by the depth and breadth of Central Florida’s industry diversity; specifically health care, biomedical research and training, digital media, and engineering/construction.  These economic missions are critical in expanding the awareness of our region’s repository of talent and expertise to attract economic investment in the Orlando area.

Locally, DM&A has certainly felt the impact of the economic slowdown like many of our contemporaries, but remain committed to providing value to our clients and community to help others get through these tough times to reposition enterprises for competitive advantage and success.  Now is the time to look ahead, invest wisely today for a prosperous economic rebound.

DM&A continues to work with clients as they transform their businesses, and IT functions.  Specifically, engagements in 2009 have included Corporate Strategic Planning, Risk Mitigation, Governance, Portfolio/Project Management and Business Process Efficiency and Execution.

I want to personally thank our consultants, colleagues, clients and community partners for their continued confidence and partnership with DM&A and look forward to a year of growth and prosperity.  Diane Meiller

DM&A Staff

Serena Frank Presents to SIM

Serena Frank, Principal of Governance and Strategy of DM&A, was the guest speaker at the Central Florida Chapter of SIM’s March meeting. The topic of her presentation was “IT Governance, Project Portfolio Management, and Business Alignment through Relationship Management”.  If you would like to see this presentation, please contact Diane Meiller or Serena Frank at dmeiller@meillerassociates.com or sfrank@meillerassociates.com

UCF Internship at DM&A

DM&A welcomed Eric Kami , a UCF student, who joined our staff in October of 2008 to observe our consulting business and shadow both Diane and Cheryl throughout the-day-to-day operations of the business.

Eric currently a junior at UCF is preparing for his LSAT’s while also leading several organization.  Eric’s busy schedule has required him to return to his academics full time.  While at DM&A Eric demonstrated a strong work ethic, a commitment to excellence and a professional demeanor.  We wish Eric much success in his endeavors!

Diane Meiller Joins SIM Central Florida Chapter Board of Directors

The Central Florida Chapter of SIM, recently appointed Diane Meiller to their Board of Directors as Director of Communications and Publicity Chair.  For more information on SIM and the local chapter, please go to www.simnet.org

SIM (Society of Information Management) is a professional non-profit society that provides Central Florida’s Chief Information Officers and other IT leaders the opportunity: To give back to the community, to further create opportunity for others and enhance Central Florida’s reputation nationwide as a community of outstanding technology leaders.  This is accomplished through mentoring, scholarships and speaker programs; To learn from contemporaries, business executives, technology experts, and community leaders by leveraging shared experiences; To enable career development through increased knowledge and greater exposure in the community and help develop the next generation of IT leaders; To network among peers who become confidantes, advisors, and friends; To act as the voice of the IT community on critical issue.

BioFlorida

Diane Meiller co-chairs with Anne Chinoda, CEO of Florida’s Blood Centers, on BioFlorida conference, scheduled for November 2009.

2008 Holiday Party

DM&A hosted its’ annual holiday gathering with clients, friends and colleagues.  With the changes in the economy that impacted so many, the holidays were a perfect time to remind us of hope and good will.  Thank you for celebrating with us!

A Letter from the Diane Meiller and Associates President
The year is off to a busy start. Starting with January, Diane was honored to participate in the Community Leadership Conference in Captiva, which was a historic event for our Central Florida Region. Hosted by the Metro Orlando Economic Commission, the Orlando/Orange County Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Central Florida Partnership, the conference focused on Going Global Together. Over 290 Community Leaders came together to discuss, learn and share the vision for the region, which requires collaboration among the three host organizations in the areas of transportation, economic diversification and brand alignment and promotion.

As one of sixteen caucus members, I had the opportunity to play an active role to anticipate opportunities, support and encourage conversations and results, and ensure that ideas and challenges were identified and addressed. As Central Florida looks at the global competitive landscape, it is critical that we develop and execute and collaborative strategy in the areas of transportation, economic diversification, and brand alignment.

There have been significant strides made in the healthcare, biotechnology arena in Central Florida, positioning the region as a leader in biotech and robotics research and development. The unified efforts of the University of Central Florida’s medical school, Orlando Regional Healthcare, Florida Hospital, Burnham Institute, the Tavistock Group, and many other investors in our region’s growth in medical care and research are setting the standards for excellence worldwide.

The opportunity for Diane Meiller and Associates to meet and work with the business leaders, government and non-profit organizations that are dedicated to the future growth of Central Florida is tremendously rewarding. There is an enormous amount of talent, intellect, and desire to enhance the economic, educational, entertainment, and overall quality of life for the current and future residents as well as for those who come for a short stay in Metro Orlando. Diane Meiller and Associates is committed to active participation in the community as the region continues it trajectory toward establishing a worldwide reputation as the best place to live, work and play. The leadership team at Diane Meiller and Associates continues to appreciate our consulting staff, business partners, and colleagues in sharing this passion for the region’s growth and welcome your ideas and participation in this historic moment of our community’s road to global prominence.

Warmest Regards,
Diane R. Meiller

2007 Christmas Party
We had a delightful holiday celebration with our clients, friends and colleagues who joined us at the Buena Vista Palace. It was a wonderful time had by all. We thank everyone for taking time out of their busy schedules to join our holiday event.

Diane said, “It is an immense pleasure to ring in the holidays with Diane Meiller and Associates’ clients, team, friends and colleagues - a truly special way to close out a terrific year and ring in another“.

View the photo gallery

Diane Meiller and Associates Adds Change Management Expertise
Diane Meiller and Associates now has three Prosci Change Management Certified consultants on staff.

Now more than ever companies are looking for ways to become adaptive and have the new initiatives they roll out rapidly take hold throughout the organization. A change management strategy incorporated into enterprise wide initiatives is the right recipe for rapid acceptance and adoption by all employees. Often, the people side of change is sidelined to focus only on the mechanics of delivering the initiative. Paying attention to and addressing how the change will impact its’ people is the key element to success and is unfortunately the most commonly overlooked. We here at Diane Meiller and Associates are fortunate to have the credentials and successful track record of delivering and executing change strategies for our clients.

Dianne Meiller & Associates Invests in the Community
Diane Meiller and Associates, Inc. continues to be ensconced in the Central Florida Community. Most recently Diane Meiller and Associates has become a member of the United Arts of Central Florida. This organization is a dynamic collaboration of businesses, governments, foundations, etc. whose partnerships work to enhance the quality and variety of cultural experiences. As a member of the Economic Development Commission, Diane Meiller and Associates participates on the BioTec Orlando initiative, and recently made corporate contributions to Arnold Palmer Hospital, WMFE Public Radio and recently became a member of the Seminole Chamber of Commerce.

Investing in Consulting Services During a Recession
We have all heard the arguments for both sides of the debate as to whether we are in or are not in a recession. This article will provide an overview of IT forecasts for the coming year and key strategies for providing strategic value to your client and employer. We at Diane Meiller and Associates recognize that economic perceptions have a great impact on spend for consulting services. However, the realization is that sometimes there is a greater demand for project-based consulting during economic downturns, while downsizing permanent staff. It is also true that companies can also decide to reduce any investment in outside consulting services as a way to reduce budgets. The question is then, how do companies prioritize which projects are funded, and how, who and what resources are allocated?

Large companies, especially during recessions or economically unstable times, look for ways to save money. One primary way is outsourcing. CIO’s are paying closer attention to supplier performance metrics. That said, executives will prepare for

the future by looking carefully at their external business partnerships and ensuring that their service providers s are delivering the best value for their investment. CIO Connect recently found in comparison to 2007 that IT budgets are likely to stay the same for 45% of technology leaders, and will increase for 32% of organizations. Only 23% of firms say their 2008 IT budget will be lower than last year. Diane Meiller and Associates recently adopted some well-known tips on how PM’s and IT managers can thrive in the current belt tightening environment.

Adversity breeds opportunities. Emerge as a leader during the tough times - be creative, come up with new ideas, and substantiate value. The best way for a Project Manager to contribute is to get involved up front and help solve the problem at hand. Be inquisitive, ensure the project scope as defined is produces results economically and effectively and ties to the overall organizational objectives. In the market that exists today, employees are often rewarded for coming up with creative solutions that contribute to the business’ bottom line.

Business Week’s Bruce Nussbaum agrees. He recently said, “Winners always emerge out of recessions, and they almost always beat their competition on the basis of something new.”

Be prepared to answer tough: C-Level executives want to know how their organizations can save money without sacrificing quality. The old adage of doing more with less is more prevalent during periods of perceived or real recession.

How do we at Diane Meiller and Associates ensure that we consistently provide high value to our clients, and what can we do to help them achieve their goal of optimizing the ability to obtain results while minimizing economic investment? This is a question we should continually ask ourselves throughout every client engagement. Smart people are all saying virtually the same thing: Recessions call for creativity, not only cost-cutting. Inevitably, Diane Meiller and Associates has seen that companies are looking to cut costs. Often times they are outsourcing more work to consulting firms because it is cheaper than hiring full time.

That is why we here at Diane Meiller and Associates make our clients strategic value our number one priority each and every day. We understand that clients need to feel that they are getting more from their investment now more than they ever have before. This is also why we constantly strive to upgrade the value we provide to our clients. With dollars tight and companies being very strategic with their investment dollars, we here at Diane Meiller and Associates put forth every effort to make those dollars work for our clients.

Sources: gantthead.com, Indo-Asian News Service, vnunet.com

UCF Internship at Diane Meiller and Associates
On March 10th, Diane Meiller and Associates will welcome a UCF student, who will join our staff in the Downtown Orlando office to observe our consulting business and shadow both Diane and Cheryl throughout the day-to-day operations of the business.

Diane Meiller and Associates Joins Forces with Junior Achievement “Me and My CommUnity”
Diane Meiller and Associates has taken on a new initiative to teach high school women the importance of leadership, teamwork, negotiation and the importance of professional collaboration in achieving organizational objectives. Diane Meiller and Associates is working in tandem with the Junior Achievement local Orlando chapter on hosting an all day event for young women. This event will be a project based format and the participants will work in groups of five. The goal is to not only have a winning team, but reach out and help the other groups’ effort to win as well. The panel of judges will be comprised of professional executive women who will evaluate each team on scorecard criteria such as leadership, creativity, negotiation, teamwork, helping others, etc., to select the winning team. The winning team will then be given a check to present to Junior Achievement. We anticipate that this will be a fun educational event, where teenage students will have an opportunity to participate in a real-life/real-reward professional experience.

Letter from the President….
The year is off to a busy start. Starting with January, I was honored to participate in the Community Leadership Conference in Captiva, which was a historic event for our Central Florida Region. Hosted by the Metro Orlando Economic Commission, the Orlando/Orange County Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Central Florida Partnership, the conference focused on Going Global Together. Over 290 Community Leaders came together to discuss, learn and share the vision for the region, which requires collaboration among the three host organizations in the areas of transportation, economic diversification and brand alignment and promotion.

As one of sixteen caucus members, I had the opportunity to play an active role to anticipate opportunities, support and encourage conversations and results, and ensure that ideas and challenges were identified and addressed. As Central Florida looks at the global competitive landscape, it is critical that we develop and execute and collaborative strategy in the areas of transportation, economic diversification, and brand alignment.

There have been significant strides made in the healthcare/biotechnology arena in Central Florida, positioning the region as a leader in biotech and robotics research and development. The unified efforts of the University of Central Florida’s medical school, Orlando Regional Healthcare, Florida Hospital, Burnham Institute, the Tavistock Group, and many other investors in our region’s growth in medical care and research are setting the standards for excellence worldwide.

The opportunity to meet and work with the business leaders, government and non-profit organizations that are dedicated to the future growth of Central Florida is tremendously rewarding. There is an enormous amount of talent, intellect, and desire to enhance the economic, educational, entertainment, and overall quality of life for the current and future residents as well as for those who come for a short stay in Metro Orlando. Diane Meiller and Associates is committed to active participation in the community as the region continues it trajectory toward establishing a worldwide reputation as the best place to live, work and play. The leadership team at Diane Meiller and Associates’ continues to appreciate our consulting staff, business partners, and colleagues in sharing this passion for the region’s growth and welcome your ideas and participation in this historic moment.

Warmest Regards,

Diane R. Meiller

A Letter from the Diane Meiller and Associates President
It is hard to believe we are into the summer of 2007 already and fall is already on the horizon. We’ve accomplished many milestones, and continue to climb the ladder of corporate maturity. We have embarked on securing health benefits to offer, as well as a 401K plan, which we expect to have in effect by October 1st. Information will be forthcoming on both of these plans, as there are minimum participation rules associated with them per government and/or provider regulations.

We continue to expand our business and community relationships as we enter new industries and markets. In appreciation to the Central Florida community, Diane Meiller and Associates actively participates, sponsors and contributes to professional organizations and non-profits on a regular basis and will increase this involvement as the company grows into other geographical or industry sectors.

It is a pleasure working with our consulting team, our clients, internal staff, and our future colleagues in these areas and I’d like to thank all of you for your confidence in Diane Meiller and Associates.

Warmest Regards,
Diane R. Meiller

Diane Meiller and Associates Celebrates an Increase in Clientele
Diane Meiller and Associates, Inc. continues to increase its’ list of clientele. Diane Meiller and Associates was recently selected by Orlando Utilities as one of their strategic business partners because of the company’s strengths in the areas of Project Management and Delivery, Business Analysis and Management Consulting. Continued focus on industry best practices, each client’s objective and culture, and the ability to deliver solutions to meet stated initiatives has been instrumental in Diane Meiller and Associates’ success. Starwood Vacation Ownership is also a recent addition to our client list, which we can attribute to the recognition of our work within the timeshare industry in Central Florida.

Diane Meiller and Associates Adds Kottke as Director of Business Development
This summer Diane Meiller and Associates, Inc. is pleased to announce that Ken Kottke will be transitioning into the role of Director of Business Development. Ken Kottke has been a consultant with Diane Meiller and Associates since May of 2006, engaged on a $100M plus project initiative at MVCI. During this time, his contribution has been invaluable to the client, as well as to the expansion of our presence with the client.

Ken’s experience in management consulting not only includes project delivery, but also extensive business development. This blend of skills will be key in taking Diane Meiller and Associates’ business to the next level. We look forward to having Ken in this role and encourage everyone to share ideas or thoughts on business opportunities.

Diane Meiller and Associates gets Involved with Other Community Groups
Diane Meiller and Associates, Inc. is making an impact on the Central Florida Community. With its involvement in groups like Professional Orlando Women Enhancing Relations (POWER) and the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA), both organizations in which Diane Meiller, President of Diane Meiller and Associates, is a founding and important member, the company continues to stress the importance of building valuable relationships in the business community.

In addition, Diane Meiller and Associates has already started giving back to the greater Orlando community with a number of charitable donations to organizations including Great Oaks Village and the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

Diane Meiller and Associates Joins Economic Development Commission
As the Metro Orlando area grows, so does the local involvement of Diane Meiller and Associates, Inc.

This summer, Diane Meiller and Associates became a proud member of the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping businesses succeed and thrive in the Central Florida area. Diane Meiller and Associates President, Diane Meiller, joined the EDC Board as a member of the Industry Outreach committee, a group devoted to promoting the thriving economic environment of the area to industries throughout the country and encouraging them to bring their businesses to Orlando.

Central Florida C.I.O.s Come Together
On June 20th, Chief Information Officers, IT and business executives from many major businesses in the area, gathered to enjoy lunch and an interactive discussion about transforming Information Technology to meet the business needs of the future. Serena Frank, Senior Vice President of Information Technology Staff Operations at Wyndham Vacation Ownership, was the keynote speaker who shared historical perspectives and best practices in taking an IT organization to the next level. With over 20 years in IT specializing in leading organizations to incorporate and execute standards and measurable processes to drive business benefits, Ms. Frank initiated discussion around best practices for organizations to achieve these goals.

The interactive discussion provided a venue for those that attended to share their respective ideas and experiences with their colleagues, and the commonality of the challenges that the majority of executives face as they lead their teams in the strategic move from a cost centered model to that of a strategic value center within the business.

Diane Meiller and Associates will continue to host forums and educational sessions and encourage suggestions from our consulting team with regard to topic areas.

Florida State University Sophomore Interns at Diane Meiller and Associates
This summer, Diane Meiller and Associates welcomed Shannon Brockman, a sophomore at Florida State University, to the staff as a part-time Assistant in the Downtown Orlando office. Miss Brockman helped to plan functions such as the C.I.O. Forum held in late June, the IIBA quarterly session in July, the POWER executive dinner, and training and meeting events. Additionally, she assisted with the newsletter and marketing materials, giving them a new look, and helped with other projects in the office as they came up.

Shannon will return to Florida State in August where she is studying Nutrition and Psychology. She has been a great help this summer and we will be sad to see her go. However, we know that the future looks bright for this hard working and enthusiastic young woman and can’t wait to see what the years to come will bring.

Stop by Citrus Building to Visit New Downtown Location
In March 2007, Diane Meiller and Associates, Inc. opened the doors of a new office in the Citrus Center Building in Downtown Orlando.

As long-time members of The Citrus Club on the 18th floor, where the company regularly hosts conferences, it was a logical step to move into a building that is the centerpiece of downtown Orlando.

We invite you to stop in and see us during your travels in downtown Orlando.

Executive Assistant Continues to be Asset to Diane Meiller and Associates
Charlene Dahlberg started with Diane Meiller and Associates, Inc. in January 2007 on a temporary basis while the company looked for a permanent Executive Assistant. By the end of her first day, Diane knew that she was going to be a key asset to the growth of the business. Charlene’s experience and knowledge in the areas of back office operations, such as banking, financials, and record keeping continues to be a tremendous asset to the company. As the company grows, Charlene’s role has evolved into financial management as we look for a receptionist to assume the office administrative duties upon Shannon’s return to Florida State.

Consultant Profile: Tammy Campbell
Tammy Campbell finished her engagement after almost one year as the SOX/PCI Project Manager at Wyndham Vacation Ownership. Tammy exemplifies the characteristics of high quality and high value associated with Diane Meiller and Associates. She possesses a strong blend of functional, technical and delivery based value, which is shared by her colleagues. We appreciate her hard work over the past several months and look forward to having her back on staff after a few months of R&R in South Florida.

A Year in Review
Diane Meiller and Associates, Incorporated opened its’ doors on January 6, 2006, and signed our first contract on January 9th with Attorneys’ Title Insurance Fund to work with their Project Management Office on Project Retrospectives, and other PMO objectives. Since that first engagement, we went on to engagements with Florida Hospital, Orlando Regional Healthcare, Marriott Vacation Club International, Home Depot Supply and are in process of signing numerous other contracts with organizations both in Central Florida and in the Northeast. This has been possible because of the enormously supportive client community who continues to provide Diane Meiller and Associates with opportunity because of the consistent delivery at or above expectation level. Though a small company to date, the consultant staff has been instrumental in creating the company’s reputation which is demonstrated through repeatable business opportunities. It is my goal to foster an environment which provides continued professional growth and opportunity as the company expands along industry, practice and geographic lines.

Many thanks again for a great 2006, and to a successful 2007!

Holiday Party
Our Holiday Party this year was celebrated at the The Buena Vista Palace. It was a great opportunity to mingle and get reacquainted with our clients and colleagues as well as meet new acquaintances. Below are a few of our party goers.

Welcome Charlene
Charlene Dahlberg has temporarily joined our team from the Tews Company. Charlene will be assisting Diane three days per week (Monday, Thursday and Friday). She will be handling various office duties including payroll and this newsletter. Please welcome her.

Welcome Jonathan Kessel
Jonathan Kessel is our first new team member for 2007. He has joined us as a Project Management consultant and will be working on a large Infrastructure project at Wyndham.

Upcoming Events
On January 19th from 11:00 – 1:00, we will be having a 2007 Company Kick-Off Meeting. It will be an opportunity to share the company’s objectives for 2007, review customer feedback from 2006, exceeding client expectations in 2007, and future markets and opportunity growth. Please bring ideas on how we can continue to build a repertoire of experience-based knowledge and delivery solutions.

Diane Meiller and Associates Team Highlight: Melissa McGarvey
As the company continues to shape around practice and geographic areas, we are pleased to announce the promotion of Melissa McGarvey to Principal. Melissa’s experience includes Global Implementation Practice Leader for PriceWaterhouseCoopers, Managing Director for Microsoft, and numerous other leadership roles in the areas of ERP and HRIS implementation, Training, Change Management, and Organizational Development with best in class company project delivery solutions for nationwide and global initiatives. Along with working with Diane on new business development opportunities in the areas of Change Management, Relationship Management and Strategy, she is working on a large ROI centered executive level project at Home Depot Supply.