Suzanne Jones, CP APMP Fellow (Class of 2017)
Senior Director, Business Winning
BAE Systems, Inc.
Bio
Suzanne Jones is a Senior Business Winning Leader for one of the top U.S. defense contractors. Her winning record includes many new, hyper-competitive wins in three top-ranked companies.
While gaining valuable experience, she has given back to the profession by volunteering at the Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP). She served on the Board of Directors (BOD) of the Nor’easters chapter for four years. During that time, she was instrumental in growing their membership and event attendance and leading their award-winning annual symposia. In 2013, Suzanne won Chapter President of the Year.
Suzanne also served on the APMP HQ BOD for five years, three of those as an Officer and the Chair during a major time of transition. Under her leadership in 2015, APMP membership increased by 19%. She led the organization to accomplish several other notable projects during her time on the Executive Committee.
Passionate about developing people, Suzanne prioritizes mentoring and coaching others.
She remains an active, certified APMP member. In addition to her corporate and APMP chapter leader awards, in 2017, Suzanne earned a seat in the first-ever APMP 40-under-40 class and, that same year, earned the designation of APMP Fellow. In May 2020, she was presented with the APMP Proposal Executive of the Year award.
Outside of work, Suzanne spends her time with family and friends. She loves sports, traveling, and volunteering with various organizations.
What does being an APMP Fellow mean to you?
To me, it's an honor bestowed upon accomplished leaders in our unique profession...leaders who have made significant contributions to their employers and the industry. More important than recognition, it's an opportunity to give back to the industry by sharing knowledge and best practices and investing in others who seek to grow their professional career. Industry Fellows often serve as subject matter experts/consultants to their associations in keeping current with industry trends and determining the needs of their members.
One of the most important jobs of a Fellow is developing, mentoring, and celebrating others.
What's your best memory from attending an APMP event?
There are too many to choose from! If I have to list one... I had the privilege of serving APMP International as the COO, CEO, and Past CEO from 2014-2016. I thoroughly enjoyed hosting and leading the APMP BPC in Seattle, WA, as CEO in 2015. The speakers were great, the networking was meaningful, and it was fun to see so many of my colleagues sharing best practices and building friendships. I thoroughly enjoyed celebrating the industry at that event.
What advice do you have for a proposal professional entering our field?
Learn everything you can. Ask questions. Take on assignments that are outside of your comfort zone. Don't be afraid to raise your hand... and most importantly, stay connected! It's important to build and contribute to your network inside and outside your company... starting with the APMP!
