Executive Director for Operations and Finance Anita Vanek is NOAA’s Executive Director for Operations and Finance, providing leadership across the agency’s corporate services and operational functions. She works to strengthen organizational effectiveness, financial stewardship, workforce management, and business operations in support of NOAA’s mission. Prior to joining NOAA, Anita spent 13 years at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Administrative Officer.