Syed Basharat Aziz

Senior Project Management & IT Leader
Riyadh, SA.

About

A highly accomplished Senior Project and IT Leader with 26 years of experience, specializing in establishing and optimizing Project Management Offices (PMOs), IT Service Management, and IT Security across 13 organizations. Proven track record of successfully delivering 05 PMOs, 03 Portfolios, 32 Programs, and 213 Projects using Agile, Hybrid, and Waterfall methodologies. Leverages a robust portfolio of 21 industry certifications, including PgMP and PMP, to drive strategic initiatives and achieve significant organizational impact.

Work

Geidea
|

Head of PMO

Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Summary

Led the establishment, operation, and strategic growth of a multi-country Group PMO at Geidea, overseeing significant project and program portfolios to drive organizational success.

Highlights

Spearheaded the design, establishment, and sustained operation of a Group PMO across KSA, UAE, and Egypt, effectively managing 3 Portfolios, 14 Programs, and 86 Projects.

Directed a 13-member team in the execution of critical programs, including SAMA CSF-ML3 (12 Projects), DC Consolidation (8 Projects), and DR Consolidation (9 Projects).

Oversaw the successful delivery of 11 additional key programs at Geidea, encompassing areas like Egypt Migration, UAE Stack, KSA Strategic State, and various IT/Fintech initiatives, ensuring alignment with business objectives.

Implemented Agile, Hybrid, and Waterfall methodologies across all projects and programs, enhancing delivery efficiency and strategic alignment across the organization.

Al Moammar Information Systems Company (MIS) at NIC
|

ITSM Consultant

Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Summary

Provided expert IT Service Management (ITSM) consulting services to the National Information Center (NIC), enhancing service delivery frameworks and operational efficiencies.

Highlights

Advised NIC on ITSM best practices and strategic implementations, improving service delivery frameworks and operational efficiencies.

Contributed to the successful execution of the ITIL3 Program at National Information Center, involving 3 critical projects.

Developed and recommended ITSM solutions tailored to NIC's specific requirements, improving service quality and stakeholder satisfaction.

Utilized deep knowledge of ITIL principles to optimize IT operations, incident management, and service lifecycle processes.

Minds United
|

Program Manager / IT Service Manager

Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Summary

Managed programs and IT services for key clients like Saudi Exim Bank and STC Pay, driving strategic IT initiatives and operational improvements.

Highlights

Authored comprehensive policies, processes, procedures, and templates for the Program Management Office (PgMO) at Saudi Exim Bank, enabling the establishment and efficient operation of their project and program management functions.

Led critical IT service management initiatives, ensuring high service availability and alignment with client business objectives.

Provided strategic oversight for diverse IT projects, ensuring adherence to best practices and successful delivery within scope and budget.

Facilitated stakeholder engagement and communication, fostering strong relationships and ensuring project outcomes met client expectations.

Minds United
|

Program Manager/IT Service Manager

Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Summary

Directed significant programs and IT service operations for Gulf International Bank, focusing on automation, banking solutions, and trade finance enhancements.

Highlights

Managed the Customer Focus Automation Program, overseeing 6 projects to enhance client engagement and operational efficiency at Gulf International Bank.

Directed the Sejel Banking Program (3 Projects) and Robotics Process Automation Program (3 Projects), contributing to digital transformation and process optimization initiatives.

Led the Eximbills Trade Finance Enhancement Program, successfully delivering 6 projects that improved trade finance operations and capabilities.

Ensured high-quality IT service delivery and strategic alignment across all managed programs, optimizing resource utilization and stakeholder satisfaction.

Arabian Centres
|

Head of IT Support Services

Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Summary

Led IT Support Services for Arabian Centres, ensuring robust and efficient technical support operations across the organization.

Highlights

Directed all aspects of IT support, enhancing service delivery and resolving critical technical issues to minimize downtime.

Implemented strategies to improve user satisfaction and operational efficiency within the IT support department.

Managed a team of IT support professionals, fostering skill development and ensuring adherence to service level agreements.

Streamlined IT support processes, contributing to a more responsive and effective technical infrastructure.

Araamis
|

Program Manager

Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Summary

Managed key programs at Araamis, driving automation and transformation initiatives to enhance organizational efficiency.

Highlights

Directed the HQ Automation and Transformation Program, successfully delivering 3 projects that streamlined operations and improved efficiency.

Oversaw the full program lifecycle, from planning and execution to monitoring and closure, ensuring strategic alignment.

Collaborated with cross-functional teams to integrate new technologies and processes, achieving significant operational improvements.

Managed program budgets and resources effectively, delivering projects on time and within financial constraints.

SMCI
|

Program Manager/IT Security Consultant

Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Summary

Served as a Program Manager and IT Security Consultant for SMCI, specializing in establishing PMO controls and managing critical PCI-DSS compliance programs for banking clients.

Highlights

Implemented and enforced controlling PMO functions, ensuring adherence to project management processes, templates, and guidelines across multiple banking clients.

Managed the PCI-DSS Certification Programs for Riyad Bank (2011, 2012, 2013), overseeing 17, 9, and 9 projects respectively, ensuring compliance and security.

Utilized Microsoft Project for scheduling and developed comprehensive templates in Word/Excel, with SharePoint for document management, enhancing project control and documentation.

Successfully led the PCI-DSS Certification Program at Bank Al Bilad, delivering 2 projects to achieve critical security compliance.

Provided expert IT Security consulting, identifying vulnerabilities and implementing robust solutions to protect sensitive data for banking clients.

Ejada
|

Senior Project Manager/IT Service Manager/IT Security Consultant

Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Summary

Provided senior-level project management, IT service management, and IT security consulting, establishing supportive PMO functions and driving key enterprise initiatives.

Highlights

Established and operated a Supportive PMO, providing consultative support to projects through templates, best practices, training, and a central project repository, enhancing consistency and predictability in project delivery.

Led the Enterprise Project Management Office Establishment Program at Mobily, successfully delivering 2 key projects to formalize project governance.

Managed complex IT projects from initiation to closure, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and efficient resource utilization.

Delivered expert IT Security consulting, identifying risks and implementing robust security measures to safeguard client assets.

Mentored project staff on best practices and guidelines, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.

Al Rajhi Bank
|

IT Projects Manager/IT Service Manager

Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Summary

Managed IT projects and oversaw IT service delivery for Al Rajhi Bank, contributing to operational efficiency and system reliability.

Highlights

Directed the planning, execution, and closure of multiple IT projects, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to project specifications.

Managed IT service operations, maintaining high levels of system availability and performance for critical banking functions.

Collaborated with cross-functional teams to resolve complex technical challenges and implement effective IT solutions.

Ensured compliance with banking industry standards and regulations in all IT project and service management activities.

Saudi Oger
|

IT Consultant

Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Summary

Provided expert IT consulting services to Saudi Oger, advising on technology solutions and system optimizations.

Highlights

Consulted on various IT initiatives, providing strategic recommendations for system architecture and infrastructure improvements.

Analyzed existing IT systems and processes, identifying areas for enhancement and implementing solutions to boost efficiency.

Collaborated with internal teams to integrate new technologies and streamline IT operations.

Contributed to the successful implementation of IT projects, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.

Computer Associates Middle East
|

Technical Consultant

Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Summary

Delivered technical consulting services for Computer Associates Middle East, specializing in system engineering and client support.

Highlights

Provided technical expertise and support for Computer Associates products, resolving complex client issues and ensuring optimal system performance.

Conducted system analysis and troubleshooting, identifying root causes of technical problems and implementing effective solutions.

Assisted clients with the implementation and configuration of CA software, ensuring smooth integration and operational readiness.

Trained client teams on product functionalities and best practices, enhancing their technical capabilities.

Netsol CONNECT (PVT.) LTD.
|

System Administrator

Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan

Summary

Managed and maintained critical IT infrastructure and systems as a System Administrator for Netsol CONNECT, ensuring high availability and performance.

Highlights

Administered and maintained server infrastructure, ensuring high availability and optimal performance of critical business systems.

Managed user accounts, network access, and security protocols, safeguarding data integrity and system security.

Performed regular system backups, disaster recovery planning, and troubleshooting to minimize downtime and data loss.

Implemented software installations, upgrades, and patches, ensuring systems were current and secure.

PieNet Global (PVT.) LTD.
|

Network Engineer

Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan

Summary

Designed, implemented, and maintained network infrastructure as a Network Engineer for PieNet Global, ensuring robust and secure connectivity.

Highlights

Configured and managed network devices, including routers, switches, and firewalls, ensuring robust and secure network connectivity.

Monitored network performance, identified bottlenecks, and implemented solutions to optimize network speed and reliability.

Troubleshot complex network issues, resolving connectivity problems and minimizing service disruptions.

Assisted in the design and implementation of new network architectures, supporting business expansion and technological advancements.

Customers Satisfaction Technology
|

LAN Administrator

Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan

Summary

Managed and maintained Local Area Network (LAN) infrastructure and user support for Customers Satisfaction Technology, ensuring seamless operations.

Highlights

Administered LAN operations, ensuring seamless network connectivity and resource sharing for all users.

Provided technical support to end-users, troubleshooting hardware and software issues to maintain productivity.

Managed network security, implementing access controls and monitoring for unauthorized activities.

Configured and deployed network devices and workstations, ensuring efficient operation and user access.

Education

Virtual University of Pakistan

Bachelor of Arts

Business Administration

Preston Institute of Management Sciences and Technology

Master of Science

Information Technology

Grade: 3.4 GPA out of 4.0

Florida Green University

Bachelor

Computer Science

Certificates

Program Management Professional, PgMP

Issued By

PMI

International Project Management Officer Expert

Issued By

AIPMO

International Project Management Officer Practitioner

Issued By

AIPMO

Certified Data Storyteller

Issued By

Anecdote

Certified Fintech Practitioner

Issued By

The London Institute of Banking and Finance

MSP Foundation

Issued By

Axelos

ITIL v4 Managing Professional

Issued By

Axelos

Payment Card Industry Professional

Issued By

PCI Security Standards Council

ISO/IEC 20000 Practitioner

Issued By

APMG

Payment Card Industry Internal Security Assessor

Issued By

PCI SSC

ITIL v3 Expert

Issued By

Office of Government Commerce

ITIL v2 Service Manager

Issued By

OGC

Introduction to Six Sigma

Issued By

Quality Gurus

Project Management Professional, PMP

Issued By

Project Management Institute (PMI)

CA Certified Unicenter System Engineer

Issued By

CA

Foundation Certificate in IT – Service Management

Issued By

OGC

CA Certified Desktop Management Administrator

Issued By

CA

Risk Management Technical Professional

Issued By

McAfee

CA Certified Unicenter System Administrator

Issued By

CA

Cisco Certified Network Associate

Issued By

Cisco Systems

Microsoft Certified System Engineer

Issued By

Microsoft Corporation

Skills

Project & Program Management

Program Management, Project Management, Portfolio Management, PMO Setup, PMO Operations, Agile Methodologies, Hybrid Methodologies, Waterfall Methodologies, Project Planning, Project Execution, Project Monitoring, Project Closure, Risk Management, Stakeholder Management, Resource Management, Budget Management, Project Governance, Strategic Planning, KPI Tracking.

IT Service Management

ITIL v2, ITIL v3, ITIL v4, IT Service Delivery, Service Level Agreements (SLAs), Incident Management, Problem Management, Change Management, Service Desk Management.

IT Security & Compliance

IT Security, PCI-DSS Compliance, ISO/IEC 20000, Information Security, Vulnerability Assessment, Security Auditing.

Technical Skills

System Administration, Network Engineering, LAN Administration, Microsoft Project, Microsoft SharePoint, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Computer Associates Clarity.

Business & Consulting

Data Storytelling, Fintech, Business Process Improvement, Digital Transformation, Customer Focus, Consulting, Client Relationship Management, Training & Development, Policy Development.

Emerging Technologies

Robotics Process Automation (RPA).

Domain Expertise

Banking & Finance, Trade Finance, Government Sector, Retail.