Data-Driven Beginnings:
How a Virtual Assistant Grew Into a Trusted Partner in Operations
Tim Jaques, an author, speaker and seasoned leader in innovation and project management, holds multiple pivotal roles: President of IPMA-USA and Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Capital Health Consulting. In 2023 Tim turned to Freedom Makers in an effort to streamline operations and enhance organizational efficiency. Through our selection process, he found Meghan, a communications specialist and Marine Corps spouse with a robust background in administrative support and creative service. Initially brought on to manage CRM data and marketing funnels, Meghan has quickly become an integral part of the team.
When he first reached out to Freedom Makers, Tim told us he needed someone who is a people person, and feels comfortable speaking with people in other countries and time zones. He wanted someone who was both curious, empathetic, and interested in learning new things. "Energy is important and irreplaceable," Tim said. "Tasks can be learned."
The Challenge:
Tim's professional landscape encompasses responsibilities across healthcare consulting, international project management, and strategic innovation. He was looking for support managing data systems and internal workflows to ensure timely follow-ups and accurate records, which are essential for maintaining strong relationships with nonprofit partners and government clients.
With a growing workload and expanding responsibilities, Tim needed someone he could trust to handle many critical details.
The Solution:
Meghan was brought on to provide data entry and general administrative support, but her involvement quickly went beyond the basics. Using platforms like Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Canva, and WordPress, she helped streamline internal systems, worked to maintain CRM accuracy, and ensured invoices and client data were always current. In addition to those core responsibilities, Meghan also began to manage email communication, support client onboarding, assist with conference planning, and contribute to general project coordination.
As their relationship grew, Meghan's role also began to include marketing coordination, social media content development, and website updates for both CHC and its nonprofit partners.
In 2024, Meghan was instrumental in getting a first-ever international research conference held at the University of Maryland for IPMA. She handled conference planning and implementation, even often serving as the face of the conference for all inquiries.
Impact:
Today, Meghan plays a central role in CHC’s operations and outreach. Her responsibilities include:
- CRM & Data Integrity: Maintaining up-to-date client records and tracking invoice info.
- Website & Social Media Management: Regular updates to CHC’s website and consistent presence across LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
- Marketing & Event Support: Promoting CHC initiatives and supporting nonprofit events with creative design and content scheduling.
Meghan’s proactive communication and attention to detail have contributed to more streamlined internal systems, smoother collaboration and more predictable timelines. By consistently managing back-end workflows and data processes, she has created the operational space needed for the team to pursue new initiatives and expand their outreach efforts.
Evolving Support:
As her role evolves, Meghan continues to support the business in both foundational and strategic ways. Her ability to take initiative and reliably follow through on tasks has made her a trusted part of the operation.
Tim tells us,
“Meghan really highlights the very best of Freedom Makers – she is super smart, marketing savvy, agile in her assignments, and always ready to brainstorm new ideas and solutions. I really appreciate her positive attitude and ability to pivot when needed. I cannot recommend this service enough!”
Getting Started with a
Freedom Maker
1.
Discovery
We learn about your business and your goals and help you craft a unique opportunity description before we send it out to our community of Freedom Makers.
2.
Selections
We identify potential matches based on skills, personality fit, and experience. You'll meet up to four "finalists" who have expressed interest in your opportunity. The final choice is yours!
3.
Onboarding & Kick Off
You are onboarded into our system and we host a Kick Off Call where we help you and your Freedom Maker build your task roadmap, categorize your priorities, and set clear expectations.
