Senior Program Manager / Project Manager / Scrum Master

With a proven track record as a senior leader in IT Product, Program, and Engineering, I excel in spearheading multi-million-dollar Digital Transformation and Modernization projects that leverage cutting-edge Digital technologies such as AI/ML, ChatGPT, Mobile IoT, and Cloud Computing. I am adept at implementing Agile, SAFe, and Waterfall methodologies to drive successful outcomes in both business and technology sectors, including overseeing Mergers & Acquisitions and executing seamless transitions from legacy systems to state-of-the-art platforms. Moreover, I have a strong background in facilitating migrations to cloud environments using Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure.

Provide strategic direction and hands-on execution expertise in implementing ERP, CRM, Business Intelligence, Data Warehouse, Infrastructure, Mobile, and E-Commerce systems to drive long-term business growth across diverse industries, including Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing, Financial Services, Wholesale Distribution, Telecommunications, Travel and Leisure, and Food and Beverage.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

HPE Industries, Madrid, Spain (Remote) Oct 2022 – Dec 2023

Senior Program Manager / Scrum Master

As Program Manager, I managed $15M in project budget and 150+ resources across 4 continents to modernize a high-end computing retailer’s E-Commerce Website using the Adobe Experience Manager, Digital Technologies like AI/ML & ChatGPT and tools like ADO to launch country specific E-Commerce sites across Spain, Sweden, Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, France, United Kingdom, and Canada.

Responsible for developing capabilities that support localization, translation of webpages, promotions, and other marketing banners into languages such as Spanish, Swedish, Dutch, German, French, and Italian, as well as multiple payment methods including Klarna, AfterPay, Split, ACH, and COD thereby supporting a 25% increase in online sales.

Integrated the E-Commerce Platform specifically tailored to meet the needs and contracts of new channel partners and corporate customers to provide bulk purchasing options using corporate pricing.

Responsible for implementing Customer Service Agent on the website using GenAI and ChatGPT to address customer queries.

As part of the launch, the Magento platform was configured to support Customize to Order (CTO) to support retail sales growth of 25 percent.

Managed the overall project using an Agile methodology with Azure DevOps to meet tight delivery deadlines. In addition, I provided weekly status reports, updated project materials, managed budgets, and conducted lessons learned after each sprint release.

Pacific Gas and Electric, San Francisco, CA (Remote) Jun 2021 – Oct 2022

Senior Program Manager / SAFe Program Consultant

Served as Program Manager responsible for managing 150+ resources and $ 15 million in project budget for migration, infrastructure development, and application modernization within the GAS Operations division. The overall project utilized Digital Technologies like GenAI / ML, Fine-tuning, Meta Llama and implemented using SAFe methodology and ADO, while the hardware installation and development were conducted using ADO to ensure that the project was delivered on time to help contribute towards the $2Billion in profit realized by the Organization in 2023.

Responsible for the infrastructure, hardware procurement, site planning, and DR site build and migration of 250+ servers which included 50 Oracle Database Servers from On Premise to Cloud environment.

Responsible for leading the team in re-architecting the application using Digital Technologies like Generative AI and Fine-tuning and Meta’s llama to modernize the GIS, Gas Distribution, Gas Transmission application and migrating to Cloud Servers.

Responsible for migrating the existing Enterprise Network to SD-WAN utilizing Microsoft Azure AI and Fortinet appliances to help support the Application migration.

Responsible for ensuring that the application is integrated with identity management so that multi-factor authentication can be enforced with SSO for access to the system.

Worked with the various groups well ahead of the launch into production to ensure a smooth transition to the operational team after ten days, while providing warranty support for the month.

Ralph Lauren Corporation, New York, NY • Apr 2020 – June 2021

Senior Program Manager

As a Senior Program Manager, responsible for the Software Selection process to Manhattan Active (WMS) Supply Chain Software and implementing the VARGO COFE (Continuous Order Fulfillment Enterprise) Warehouse Execution System in the Warehouse and integrating with SAP, MS Dynamics to support the volume to be shipped out of the Warehouse, enable the expansion of the Retailer into Canada through Retail Store and E-Commerce for a Major Luxury Fashion Retailer.

Partnered with business and technology to go through the Software Selection process of moving from the Manhattan WMS On-Prem version (3 different versions with multiple instances) to the Manhattan Active Omni product and the feasibility and solution for all the interfaces necessary to support the business.

Partnered with the Infrastructure team to install on-prem HP servers to support the VARGO COFE system.

Responsible for all the necessary changes required to support the COFE by removing redundancy built within Manhattan WMS and SAP Order-To-Cash, Procure-to-Pay, JD Edwards OMS system, and financial systems over the years to support the COFE WES and utilize Manhattan for keeping Inbound Inventory receivables and wave planning.

Worked with Cross functional team with modifications to the Manhattan WMS system to ship products out of the US Distribution Center using major shipping carriers like FedEx and UPS and Customs Broker – Maersk to send products to Canada Stores and fulfill E-Commerce orders to customers to launch Ralph Lauren Store Front and Ralph Lauren E-Commerce Fulfillment.

Partnered with the Distribution leaders to install RFID Scanners for inbound logistics to expedite receipt of inbound inventory and its accuracy.

Partnered with 3rd party vendors to enable and expand the B2B distribution network and product shipments to retailers like Foot Lockers, with product categories like Footwear, etc.

Partnered with the Infrastructure team to migrate physical servers to virtual VxRail Servers for systems like Embroidery, label printing, and Carrier label printing to avoid frequent system failures and reduce ongoing maintenance costs on physical servers.

Polaris, Plymouth, Minnesota (Hybrid) Feb 2018 – Mar 2020

Senior Program Manager

During my tenure as Senior Program Manager, I was responsible for implementing JD Edwards Enterprise Resource Planning and Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems, as well as managing a variety of initiatives across multiple departments and locations, utilizing Waterfall, Agile, or a combination of both methodologies and using ADO as the tool to manage Scrum activities, providing support to Polaris' Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trade Compliance, and Quality Engineering departments.

Assisting in the implementation and training of the JD Edwards ERP system within three manufacturing facilities including Mexico in Spanish language and within the corporate environment.

Managed and directed the Automotive Apparel B2B E-Commerce Website for wholesale and consumer distribution using MS Dynamics by providing marketing promotions, campaigns, and sales events via the E-Commerce site, and implementing bundle opportunities to increase basket value..

Integrated Penske's inbound material flow visibility across all manufacturing facilities globally through system integration, ensuring inventory is available just in time for production..

Responsible for the integration of Kronos Time and Attendance with Payroll and Manufacturing Execution systems for accurate payroll processing by capturing employee activities on the plant floor.

Improved the Trade Automation system for both inbound and outbound material flow in order to meet compliance requirements and to ensure compliance with NAFTA and USMCA agreements that govern the movement of goods between our facilities in the United States and Mexico.

Lead the implementation of the Assent SAAS platform and onboarded all vendors to support PFAS, REACH, and SCIP compliance to OEHHA regulations.

Migrate the B2B e-Commerce team from a waterfall methodology to an Agile framework to accelerate the delivery of features and capabilities.

Managed the implementation of the material flow from Mexico to Poland entities in partnership with CH Robinson to avoid the unnecessary tax burden due to changes in regulation in the United States.

La Pro Inc, Chaska, Minnesota (Remote) Jan 2016 – Feb 2018

Senior IT Program Manager – Multiple Clients

In my role as Client Engagement and Delivery Manager, I advised several clients on strategic planning, product management, project management using agile methodologies, and product development. A few of our clients are Renewal by Andersen, Andersen Windows, iSolvedHCM, Paychex, Diamond Solutions, Duke Rentals, Sure Payroll, PeopleNet, Trimble Navigation, MasterBrands, and Ecolab.

As a Scrum Master, I implemented and configured the Magento B2C customer portal for an Iowa-based client to maximize their e-commerce capabilities.

In three months, as a Scrum Master, responsible for the implementation of a T&E SAAS application and mobile app in iOS and Android across the globe in multiple languages like English, Spanish, French, German and Italy, after integrating it with multiple global JD Edwards ERP instances and SAP instances in 5 countries.

Served as a Program Manager to streamline the manufacturing process by introducing IoT into production lines for new DH window products and increasing production efficiency by 20%.

I worked as a Project Manager in charge of streamlining the production line, optimizing the Master Production Schedule and Production Planning schedulers with the correct sequencing of the lines to support the production efficiency required by the company.

Working as a Scrum Master, improved several modifications and customizations to the MRP system to support the product efficiency required and to streamline the procurement process by integrating with the BAAN ERP system. Provided recommendations on Warehouse Management Software to accommodate the plant's production volume.

Served as a Program Manager in the merger and acquisition of Sure Payroll and Paychex to integrate key payroll modules and build the payroll engine.

Worked as a Project Manager and developed an API to integrate small business accounting and ERP packages with Sure Payroll for data exchange for payroll processing.

I worked as a Scrum Master to add new features and enhancements to the iSolvedHCM Payroll software and its mobile application for iOS and Android, to support additional payroll tax regulations and keep the product up to date.

Data Warehouse Migration: Worked as a Scrum Master for a Retail Client responsible for migrating their existing DW from BOBJ to Microsoft Azure.

TRAVELLIANCE, Minnetonka, Minnesota Oct 2014 – Dec 2015

Information Technology Leader

Led the strategic direction of the product management, the program management, and the product delivery departments during the turnaround of the company. Worked as a liaison between Business and Technology managing a $6 million per annum project portfolio, including defining deliverables, managing workloads, hiring, and coaching resources, financial analysis, and governance.

Led the transition from Waterfall to Agile methodologies for various infrastructure and data systems projects, as well as the development of Microsoft-based applications.

Managed the Tableau installation and rolled out a brand-new state-of-the-art dashboard for clients.

Oversaw multiple global project teams of 35 resources in the delivery of a B2B application, an Ariba implementation, a mobile application on iOS, Android, and Fire Platform, and a BI dashboard in a very short time frame with a budget of $6 million..

Implemented project control and transformed delivery methods to increase productivity, eliminate margin erosion, and improve client satisfaction during Program Turnaround (PMs and team).

BEST BUY Co. Inc, Richfield, Minnesota May 2010 – Oct 2014

Senior IT Program Manager – Platform Operations & Delivery

BBYOpen is a set of APIs developed by Best Buy that extend the reach of our products to B2B, B2C, and B2B2C clients outside of Best Buy. Leads the strategy, development, and delivery of critical API functionality for Best Buy Open.

Develop and implement integrated operations and platform solutions for 3rd party partners and B2B clients by adding API capabilities and eCommerce capabilities.

During the first three years after the API capabilities were built, we have onboarded more than 50 partners on our API platform.

Implemented and managed a $40M project portfolio using SAFe in open-source platforms using Java, REST API, and NoSQL, including Native mobile apps..

Implemented and configured Magento in support of BBY Mexico's e-commerce operations.

Manage project documents, budgets, and forecasts using MS Project Server, create business flow documents, and report weekly status to steering committee.

In collaboration with OMS, Supply Chain, Retail, Legal, Accounting, Enterprise Customer Care, Services, CSG's, and Warehouse groups within the organization, identified and resolved operational and system gaps through the implementation or development of standard operating procedures to support the growth of Emerging Channels.

TECHNOLOGY EXPERIENCE

Platform-As-A-Service

Artificial Intelligence

Machine Learning

E-Commerce

ERP

ChatGPT

API Development

Supply Chain Management

Sales Force Automation

BI

.Net

N-tier Client/Server based

OOAD

AGILE

RUP

Internet Technology

SDLC

Use-Case

Oracle

Progress

SQL Server

JAVA

Linux

UNIX

SharePoint

Web Services

Microsoft Source Safe

Web Architecture

Configuration Management

Intranet

JIRA

Bhoomi

MQ Series

Certifications

Introduction to ChatGPT

Graduate Certificate in AI & ML

Certified SAFe 5.0 Agilist

SAFe – SPC - SAFe 5.0 Program Consultant

PMP - Project Management Certification

CSM - Certified Scrum Master

CSCP - Certified Supply Chain Professional

CPM – Certified Product Manager

Lean Sigma Sensei

Six Sigma Black Belt

Supply Chain Data Analyst Certification.

EDUCATION

Post Graduate Certificate – Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (May 2024)

Purdue University, Chicago, IL, USA

Master of Science in Medical Technical Quality – 2018 - 2020

St Cloud State University, St Cloud, MN, USA

Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science - 1986 – 1989

University of Madras, Tamil Nadu, India

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