Leadership Spotlight: Carla Simmons, Dir. of Operations

Carla Simmons joined Certify in March 2022 and was promoted to Director of Operations in January 2024. She graduated from Tennessee State University with a BS in Computer Science. Her previous employers include Humana and Centene Corporation. While she was born in Toronto, Carla grew up in the Bronx in New York City. Currently, she lives in Metro-Atlanta with her husband and 2 young adult children. Outside of work, Carla loves all things Arts & Crafts, as well as traveling and volunteering in her community. Carla also enjoys spending time with her family, especially with her twin sister.

Career Journey

Can you tell us about your career journey and what drew you to Certify?

I started my career in Credentialing over 18 years ago and what a journey it has been! So much has changed since then. When I began working in this industry, we were still using paper applications, ink stamps, and calling and faxing to confirm verifications. I have seen the transformation as technology has become more prevalent. This use of technology is actually what peaked my interest in Certify.

What is the most meaningful piece of leadership advice you were ever given?

“Be yourself!” I have worked with many excellent team members and leaders. While I admire their style and glean from some of their best characteristics, I can’t aim to copy their style. I have to be me and focus on being the best me I can be!

Who has been your inspiration or role model?

My husband! He has had to overcome some physical challenges in his life, where others may have used it as an excuse to be complacent. Instead, he used those challenges to push him forward and persevere. He is a High School Educator, tasked with inspiring the next generation and preparing them for the future. He also has a passion for bettering the lives of those in his community. He shows me, everyday, that when passion meets purpose, success and satisfaction follow!

Did you have a mentor?

While I did not have a specific mentor, there have been several key people who have helped me along my way. One key person was a former manager. She was the first to really see characteristics in me, that I did not see in myself. She started to assign me tasks that would help me hone and refine my skills, which eventually led to new opportunities and leadership positions

What is the most important skill that a Director of Operations needs to have?

Organizational skills! This position requires me to juggle many responsibilities. Creating an effective organizational system and strategy will aid in the ability to meet deadlines and accomplish goals.

What advice would you give to young professionals entering the workforce today?

Be willing to put in the work in! Sometimes you have to do tasks that are not a part of your job description. Remaining flexible and being a team player will take you farther than you could ever imagine.

Company-Specific Questions

What at Certify are you most excited about right now?

I am excited about the next phase of our business. We have already experienced so much growth within a short time. While growing quickly has its challenges, when you have the right people doing the right things, it allows people the opportunity to be creative and that's how the best ideas are born!

What problems do you think Certify is best positioned to address in the market?

I’m proud that Certify increases speed, efficiency, and accuracy while decreasing operating expenses.

How does diversity and inclusion make a difference to a company like Certify?

Having a diverse group of people working together comes with its set of challenges; however, the rewards far outweigh those challenges. True success happens when we all come together and work toward one common goal. Our global workforce allows for us to take different thoughts and opinions into account, and come up with the best innovation and solution

What would you say makes Certify stand out culturally from other companies you’ve worked for?

The people! Certify has the most hard working and collaborative group I have ever worked with! Everyone is always willing to step in and help solve a problem or improve a process. No one ever says “That is not my job.” We have a “Can do” attitude and it shows! We are all working toward our company mission while embodying our vision and values.

You can learn more about Carla’s leadership journey in her bio. Carla, thank you for sharing your experiences with us.

If you are interested in joining our team, see our Careers page to find open positions.