Vanessa McDonald
Chula Vista
Summary
Compassionate and detail-oriented operations professional with extensive experience in decedent transport for human and pet remains, along with expertise in regulated documentation and compliance-driven environments. Recognized for maintaining accuracy, dignity, and a calm demeanor while effectively managing time-sensitive cases. Proven ability to communicate seamlessly across teams in high-stress death-care settings, ensuring all processes are handled with the utmost professionalism and respect. Committed to upholding the highest standards of care and compliance in all aspects of operations.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Founder & Operations Director
New Lyfe Homes
San Diego, CA
01.2020 - Current
- Achieved successful management of a regulated non-profit transitional sober re-entry housing program for diverse populations, including probation and probation-referred clients. Enhanced compliance through meticulous organization of documentation intake files, incident reports, and policy enforcement. Fostered strong relationships with probation officers, case managers, and families through compassionate communication. Improved support for individuals with language barriers by leveraging basic Spanish and ASL skills. Streamlined communication processes via phone, email, and internal systems to deliver timely updates and resolve issues effectively.
Decedent Transport Specialist (Contract / NDA)
NDA
01.2025 - 2025
- Performed deceased transport services for human and pet remains under confidentiality agreements with licensed mortuaries and funeral service providers. Assisted with removal and transport while maintaining strict chain-of-custody, documentation accuracy, and dignity standards. Coordinated timing and case details with funeral staff in sensitive, time-critical situations. Communicated clearly with staff and partners to confirm details and prevent delays.
Founder – Death Care Transport (Regulatory & Operational Setup)
True Dignity Transport
CA
08.2025 - Current
- Registered and structured a deceased transport business in California. Developed documentation workflows, chain-of-custody procedures, and professional standards informed by hands-on transport experience.
Education
High School Diploma - General Studies
Guajome Park Academy
Imperial Beach, CA01-2003
Child Development
Southwestern College
Chula Vista, CASkills
- Documentation Quality Control
- Regulatory Compliance
- Client & Family Communication
- Professional Phone & Email Communication
- Case Coordination & Follow-Up
- Chain of Custody Awareness
- Microsoft Word, Excel & Outlook
- Independent Work
Certification
Residential Administrator Certification – STRTP (Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Program for Youth)
Timeline
Founder – Death Care Transport (Regulatory & Operational Setup)
True Dignity Transport
08.2025 - Current
Decedent Transport Specialist (Contract / NDA)
NDA
01.2025 - 2025
Founder & Operations Director
New Lyfe Homes
01.2020 - Current
Child Development
Southwestern College
High School Diploma - General Studies
Guajome Park Academy
Section name
Availability: Full-Time | San Diego Market | Remote or Market-Based Office