Davana O’Brien

Davana O’Brien is an accomplished operations and organizational leader with over a decade of experience driving governance, programming, chapter management, and strategic execution within mission-driven organizations. She currently serves as Director, Operations, Programming & Chapters at NAMIC (National Association for Multi-ethnicity in Communications) in New York, where she leads enterprise-wide operational strategy supporting board governance, national chapters, signature events, and organizational systems.

In her role at NAMIC, Davana oversees board and governance operations, ensuring compliance with nonprofit standards while supporting executive leadership in strengthening engagement and oversight processes. She provides centralized operational leadership for NAMIC’s national chapter network, developing standardized systems, onboarding frameworks, and performance tools that enhance consistency, accountability, and alignment with national strategy.

Davana plays a pivotal role in executing NAMIC’s high-profile signature events, including the NAMIC NEXT Rolling Series. She leads registration systems, logistics, run-of-show operations, and on-site execution—ensuring seamless attendee experiences and operational excellence at scale. Known for her ability to manage complex moving parts in real time, she serves as the primary operational lead during major events.

Her expertise spans organizational infrastructure, risk management, vendor oversight, and digital communications operations. She designs scalable workflows, strengthens operational systems across hybrid environments, and ensures brand consistency across platforms and stakeholder touchpoints. With a strong eye for both detail and strategy, she bridges operations, marketing, and programming to advance institutional goals.

Previously, as Operations & Marketing Coordinator at NAMIC, Davana managed billing and financial reporting, board documentation, marketing campaigns, social media strategy, and event logistics—building a comprehensive foundation in nonprofit operations and communications. She began her career at N. Cheng & Co., P.C., where she developed core administrative, client service, and organizational management skills.

Davana holds a Master of Science in Business Administration from CUNY Brooklyn College, as well as degrees in Business Management, Finance, and Business Administration. She is recognized for her operational rigor, strategic thinking, and commitment to strengthening organizations that shape media, culture, and leadership.