After graduating from the University of Maryland, Reka spent the early part of her career working in the Physics Department at the University of Maryland. In her 8 years with the department, she held progressively responsible roles including Coordinator of Web Development & Special Events, Coordinator of Faculty Affairs, and Director of Faculty Affairs & External Relations. During that time, Reka helped transition the department, and ultimately the University, to a confidential, secure, and entirely electronic appointment, promotion, and tenure (APT) process that would make the entire process more efficient and sustainable. In 2008, Reka started a new role as the Director of the University Senate at the University of Maryland. During her 14+ years in that position, she oversaw the development and revision of over 500 legislative actions including University-wide policies ranging from parental leave for faculty and staff to appointment, promotion, and tenure policies, and educational policies.

In September 2022, Reka started a new position as the Director of Research Transparency & Outreach in the Division of Research at the University of Maryland. In this role, she helped develop and implement the UMD Consulting Policy (II.3.10[E]) to address the reporting requirements associated with outside professional activities as stipulated in National Security Presidential Memorandum 33 (NSPM-33) and any additional associated federal regulations. During her time in this role, she played a key role in building campus awareness through numerous, educational training and outreach activities. Reka also spearheaded the development of a project that identified discrepancies in current & pending (other) support disclosures to proactively ensure accuracy.

In December 2025, Reka started a new position as the Director of AI Initiatives for the Division of Research. In this role, she will provide strategic leadership in the Division for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) across units, operations, and services. Montfort will develop a comprehensive AI Integration Strategic Plan for the Division, inventory and assess existing AI tools across campus, evaluate AI-driven solutions that advance equitable access and operational efficiency, and direct collaborative efforts with both on- and off-campus partners.