Director Of Information Technology

• Apr 2018 - Jun 2022

One of my key responsibilities is to direct an onsite and remote team of 12 members to drive and streamline IT operations, encompassing servers, cloud platforms, networks, end-user devices, telecommunications/radios, video surveillance, video conferencing, and all software used by the district. I bring technology innovation, drive cost-effectiveness, and improve service quality by formulating and executing strategic IT plans. I deliver suggestions to Board regarding IT infrastructure planning, budget management, and technological direction. I establish seamless communication among schools, vendors, and education partner groups by building and maintaining effective engagement model. Following are highlights of the key achievements that I attained: ► Transitioned outdated system to reliable cloud hybrid model that transformed in-person classroom learning to online learning by designing a technology roadmap. ► Acquired board approval to implement a project for delivering laptops to 800+ students for learning. ► Continually improved response time, availability, privacy, and security that drove 75% reduction in initial interaction time as well as 80% increase in first contact resolutions. ► Enhanced team cohesiveness using Kotter’s 8-step change model and approaches from Lencioni’s Five Dysfunctions of a team. ► Deployed Kibana and Elastic Stack that increased visibility on cyber security threats and incidents. ► Created and monitored KPIs utilizing PowerBI by evaluating the performance of the IT department. ► Established guidelines, standards, and procedures (using a risk management approach) to safeguard systems and information (using COBIT and ITIL frameworks). ► Executed policies and trained staff members to ensure strict compliance with privacy requirements (FOIPPA/FIPPA) and other legislated security and privacy practices. ► Supported the development of no-code solutions that streamlined data transformation and account creation.

Compliance Manager

• Feb 2013 - Apr 2018

As a Compliance Manager, I fulfilled regulatory requirements by overseeing the implementation of a cyber security framework via project planning as well as gap and risk analysis. Received executive approval for budgetary estimates and resource plans regarding key initiatives. I devised robust solutions (in collaboration with cross-functional teams) to achieve corporate compliance targets. Strategically positioned as a key member of the Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) and the Centre for Energy Advancement through Technological Innovation (CEATI). Moreover, I implemented multi-departmental processes to control access to physical/cyber assets and reduce risk of potential attacks. Selected accomplishments include:► Managed $2M budget to maintain NERC CIP compliance while leading the successful execution of $2.5M implementation and upgrade projects for building and updating compliance controls.► Drafted cyber security guidelines based on NIST standards in liaison with industry members of the Canadian Gas Association. ► Established strategic governance policies to strengthen cyber security, improve incident response, and maximize information protection.► Proactively managed responses to compliance audits of physical and cyber security controls for critical infrastructure, creating hundreds of pages of evidence with no findings.► Built and guided a technical team to oversee the maintenance of newly deployed infrastructure and software solutions.► Oversaw vendor selection and negotiation process to ensure timely and cost-effective execution of infrastructure, software solutions, and service contracts. - Finalized contracts with 10+ vendors to implement and monitor cyber and physical security tools.► Completed compliance-related projects by managing project financials, setting timelines, reducing risks, and building cross-functional collaboration.

Systems Analyst | Project Manager

• Feb 2007 - May 2013

In this role, I planned and implemented major technology projects to support electric generation, transmission, and distribution grids. Oversaw the development of business cases to create feasibility reports of multiple corporate initiatives. I contributed to creating custom solutions in C#, Java, Oracle, and SQL Server in coordination with GIS and Operations teams. Key achievements for this role: ► Spearheaded implementation of a $1M HVAC and UPS upgrade project for the main office. ► Developed and delivered more than 15 business cases IT project approvals. ► Actively participated in the selection and contract negotiation process to support Automated Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project that served 175, 000+ customers.

IT Manager

• May 2005 - Dec 2006

As an IT Manager, I oversaw the production of a web-based adventure travel application for multiple clients, including WestJet and Lonely Planet. I interpreted and translated business requirements into functional specifications while managing the work assignments and conducting technical reviews for a global team. I created scope and prioritized tasks/requirements in liaison with clients and executive team. My key achievement for this role: ► Leveraged PHP and MySQL to spearhead the development of the SAAS application. ► Created scope, conducted quality control, as well as managed risks and costs to ensure the execution of 10+ enhancement projects. ► Introduced new products within time, budget, and quality constraints.

President

• Jun 1998 - May 2005

As a President, I established and drove business from scratch to deliver high-quality IT consulting services to fulfill corporate clients' needs. I played a key role in developing new products/software by leveraging various tools. Key achievement for this role: ► Directed teams of 15-20 developers to manage the end-to-end implementation of core corporate application projects in areas of staff development, accounting, financial planning, and engineering. ► Strategized and successfully executed 20+ projects worth more than $500K by delivering leadership.

Founder

• Jan 1998 - Dec 2000