Name: Mark Plourd
Title: Reimbursement Team Leader
Department of Administrative Services
Office: Business Office - Collections and Billing
1. Can you share your current role and key responsibilities within the State of Connecticut?
I am a Reimbursement Team Leader in the Collections Unit at DAS. Alongside a highly skilled team, we analyze and interpret federal and state laws and regulations and pursue reimbursement of state assistance.
In my role, amongst other responsibilities, I am responsible for equipping my team with the tools, resources, and guidance necessary to perform at a high level and ensuring we are in compliance with the state and federal regulations for collection.
2. What motivated you to pursue a career with the State of Connecticut, and what has been your journey here?
My father(retired) and brother were both state employees when I entered the workforce, and I saw firsthand the impact they had on the residents of the State of Connecticut and saw the growth they experienced in their careers. The opportunity to be in an environment that offers continuous learning, professional growth, and the ability to build meaningful relationships across agencies with a common goal was a major motivator in pursuing a career with the State of Connecticut.
I began my career with the Department of Social Services as a Resource Investigator before transitioning to DAS as a Reimbursement Analyst. I advanced to the role of Reimbursement Team Leader, where I have had the privilege of working under the leadership of Mike Barile and Francisco Rivera, alongside a group of knowledgeable Team Leaders and top-rate collections/billing/accounting staff. Throughout my time in Collections at DAS, I have gained extensive institutional knowledge while contributing to a collaborative and mission-driven team.
3. What achievements at the State of Connecticut are you most proud of, and what impact have they had?
One of my proudest accomplishments at DAS has been modernizing the Collections Unit’s case management process. Prior to COVID, our operation relied heavily on thousands of physical paper files and procedures. When the pandemic required us to deliver high-level customer service remotely, we were forced to rethink an antiquated, paper-dependent system.
In collaboration with Assistant Director Francisco Rivera, I helped implement an almost entirely digital case record system and process. This transformation has enabled staff to provide secure, efficient, and real-time case management and customer service to the hundreds of law firms and probate courts we serve across the state. As a result, we significantly reduced the time required to initiate our liens, assert claims, and deposit our checks. Seeing this initiative through from conception to completion made every meeting, call, and brainstorming session worthwhile.
4. What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of your work, and how do they enrich your life?
Outside of work, I am an avid UConn fan and a dedicated runner. Over the past several years, I have completed multiple half marathons and marathons, including RiMaCon—a road race that began in Rhode Island, passed through Massachusetts, and finished at the Riverfront in Hartford.
Most importantly, I value spending time with my wife and our two children. What enriches my life the most is watching my children explore and develop interests in activities I was never involved in myself. My daughter recently began piano lessons and has developed a genuine passion for music, while my son enjoys karate along with several other sports. Although these pursuits are new to me, I deeply appreciate and value their curiosity, creativity, and eagerness to learn.
5. Could you share a memorable travel experience and what made that destination special for you?
One of my most memorable travel experiences is visiting Anna Maria Island, Florida, just south of Tampa, with my family. My wife and I first went shortly after our daughter was born, and it has become an annual tradition. We love the island’s peaceful atmosphere, which makes it the perfect place for rest and relaxation. During our visits, we rent a golf cart to explore, enjoy the white sand beaches, watch the sunset over the Gulf, and—like any classic beach town—treat the kids to ice cream every night. Every moment is cherished, and what makes it special is that my children are creating lasting memories they will look back on with their families.
6. What advice would you give to someone considering a career with the State of Connecticut?
Do it!! Public service is extremely rewarding, especially at the heart of state government here at DAS. Apply to positions you feel you would excel in and make a big impact in, and even apply to positions you feel you would need to push yourself to learn more. “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take,” right?
7. What’s your favorite spot in Connecticut, and what makes it special to you?
Amongst the many spots in CT, my favorite spot is Essex. The town green overlooks the CT River and is within walking distance to a marina, restaurants, playgrounds, and most importantly, our favorite ice cream shop. Essex is special to me as my kids always want to meet up with their friends on the weekends and enjoy ice cream together, forming core memories for the years to come.
8. If you could have any superpower, what would it be and how would you use it to make a difference?
If I had a superpower, it would be the ability to control the world’s weather. I could prevent dangerous storms, end droughts to help farmers and communities, and make sure important outdoor events or emergency situations aren’t ruined by extreme conditions. Plus, after the last couple of snowstorms... why not enjoy 80 and sunny in February?
9. Who is the person you admire, and what qualities do they possess that inspire you?
The person I admire most is my father. He has shown me what it means to be a dedicated person, friend, father, and husband, and has taught me how to navigate difficult situations with integrity and perseverance. Throughout my life and career, he has been my greatest supporter, always encouraging me through both successes and challenges. His example of hard work, commitment, and family values continues to inspire me, and I strive to carry forward his legacy.
10. What’s an interesting or fun fact?
Bananas are berries, but strawberries aren’t. Go figure?
