Data Center Cloud Architect

Walid Danaf

Bedford, NH 603-***-**** ******@*****.*** LinkedIn

Chief Cloud Architect and AVP of Platform Architecture Driving Cloud Architecture, Governance, and Operating Models for Enterprise Solutions. Innovative and results-driven cloud leader with a robust background in cloud governance, cloud operating models, and enterprise architecture. Proven track record in leading cloud migration strategies, building cloud platforms, and establishing strong vendor partnerships to drive business success. CAREER ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Led the enterprise application inventory and mapping for cloud migration and data center consolidation using the Cloud Adoption Framework (CAF). Successfully implemented strategies including platform modernization, code refactoring, architectural redesign, and repurposing legacy systems.

• Directed the strategy, implementation, and operationalizing of Cloud Platform on Azure, including establishing governance and an agile intake process for new applications with a focus on guardrails and self-service.

• Created the ‘Cloud Architecture’ practice by staffing the team with internal and external hires, and defining EA services and metrics to accelerate adoption.

• Established a strong education and certification program with Microsoft to enable employees to acquire Azure hands-on and architectural skills, minimizing reliance on third-party vendors.

• Forged strategic partnerships with top third-party vendors to meet business needs. Partnered with Legal, HR, and IT Finance to create MSAs/SOWs, cloud roles, job descriptions, and budget guidelines for cloud operations. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

TJX - Marlborough, MA 07/2017 – 10/2024

AVP, Platform Architecture, (01/2022 – 10/2024)

Led a team of 10 senior architects to develop a Distributed Cloud strategy (Microsoft, Oracle, and Google) involving edge computing and Data Center consolidation globally.

• Evaluated Oracle Public Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) and Oracle Exadata Private Cloud at Customer (EXAC@C). Ruled out OCI in favor of EXAC@C and implemented EXAC@C as a managed service, streamlining operations and eliminating technical debt. Enhanced resiliency and reduced costs by $5M over 4 years.

• Led the assessment of TJX corporate applications and infrastructure at Kyndryl's Australian data center. Developed a business case for exiting Kyndryl's Australian data center. Negotiated with Microsoft and third-party vendors to lead the migration, and successfully migrated 30 applications to Azure. Achieved $15M in savings over 5 years, enhanced performance, improved scalability, and boosted resilience. Chief Cloud Architect, (07/2017 – 01/2022)

Led the enterprise efforts to evaluate public cloud providers and establish TJX’s cloud platform.

• Established Microsoft Azure as TJX’s cloud platform for building custom cloud-native applications.

• Deployed several applications on Azure and created an intake process for ensuring strong governance and security measures.

• Spearheaded the creation of a Cloud Business Office (CBO) in collaboration with stakeholders to drive enablement, FinOps practices, and operating model improvements.

• As a result, Azure budget increased from $3M in 2020 and is projected to reach $50M in 2025 with over 50 applications in production.

IBM - Various Locations 09/1999 – 06/2017

Client Technical Leader, Cross Brand Cloud Advisor, (01/2010 – 06/2017) Managed the technical strategy for 10 enterprise clients in the Northeast, with the goal to accelerate production deployments and value to clients. Performed numerous application discovery & dependency mapping. Incorporated clients’ business and technical requirements into IBM’s roadmap, eliminating expensive custom development & support by client. Significantly improved operational efficiency, notably reduced infrastructure costs, and considerably enhanced client satisfaction. Walid Danaf

Bedford, NH 603-***-**** ******@*****.*** LinkedIn Page 2 Implemented patterns that expedited the creation of golden topologies using automation (from weeks to hours/days), bringing value to clients quicker with less risk.

Additional Titles: Professional Services Consultant / Technical Software Deployment Manager EDUCATION & CERTIFICATION

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science – University of Toronto Diploma in Physics – Lebanese University, Faculty of Science

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