Proven leader in financial management at EDP Services, adept in financial software proficiency and fostering customer relationships. Spearheaded initiatives that streamlined processes, enhanced compliance, and drove profitability. Skilled in GAAP understanding and effective communication, consistently achieving targets with a strategic approach to budgeting and financial oversight. High-profile Financial Manager successful at representing investment and insurance organizations in analytical, management and sales roles. Resourceful Financial Manager adept at supporting high growth technology and service organizations. Skilled in aligning people, processes and technology to achieve continuous improvement in operational processes. Well-versed in providing analytics with insight and influencing decisions that support growth and development.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
Financial Manager
EDP Services
10.2023 - Current
Created year-end audit book for the firm to control and reduce audit costs and accurately prepared year-end financial statements.
Researched and facilitated software integration to streamline accounting and financial processes.
Drafted reports for leadership for use in strategic planning and decision making.
Analyzed established fiscal parameters and organizational needs to develop approved annual budget.
Financial & Business Analyst
Scotiabank
05.2023 - 09.2023
Reduced financial risk exposure by performing thorough credit analysis on potential clients and recommending appropriate actions.
Assisted in the preparation of detailed risk assessments for potential investments, enabling informed decision-making on portfolio allocation.
Contributed to the development of long-term strategic plans, incorporating financial projections and industry trends to guide future business decisions.
Streamlined budgeting processes for increased efficiency and cost savings, utilizing advanced financial modeling techniques.
Improved financial forecasting accuracy by conducting detailed business analysis and implementing strategic recommendations.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify areas of improvement and develop actionable strategies to optimize operations.
Optimized working capital management by monitoring cash flow projections and recommending adjustments as needed to maintain liquidity requirements.
Enhanced decision-making capabilities by providing clear, concise reports on key performance indicators and financial trends.
Managed monthly financial closing processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in reporting results to senior leadership.
Supported merger and acquisition activities with comprehensive due diligence, resulting in successful transactions and integrations.
Enabled seamless integration of acquired companies into existing financial systems by guiding post-acquisition transition efforts.
Developed insightful executive presentations for board members, highlighting financial trends and offering strategic solutions to improve overall performance.
Implemented robust internal controls to maintain regulatory compliance, minimizing audit findings and mitigating risks associated with noncompliance.
Provided ad-hoc analyses for senior leadership team members, aiding in data-driven decision making on critical business issues.
Increased profitability through the identification and elimination of inefficiencies within company processes, applying Lean Six Sigma methodologies.
Facilitated the annual budgeting process, collaborating closely with department heads to gather input and align resources against strategic priorities.
Trained junior analysts on essential analytical tools and methodologies, fostering a culture of continuous learning within the finance team.
Conducted detailed financial analysis to identify and evaluate changes in operations, trends and potential areas of improvement.
Managed corporate watch lists and insurance files.
Provided strategic planning advice and financial oversight for corporate stakeholders.
Collaborated to develop and maintain targeted profit plans to sustain growth.
Collected data and developed detailed spreadsheets to identify trends and create revenue, profitability, and expense forecasts.
Assisted in preparation of presentations, data tables and other documents for investor meetings.
Business Analyst / Project Manager
RBC Capital Markets
09.2022 - 04.2023
Implemented best-practice methodologies that improved overall project delivery timelines while maintaining quality standards.
Interacted with internal customers to understand business needs and translate into requirements and project scope.
Supported software development projects by defining clear requirements and effectively communicating them to technical teams.
Optimized workflow processes to enhance overall productivity and achieve operational excellence.
Collaborated closely with stakeholders to identify opportunities for process improvements and drive continuous innovation in the organization.
Performed gap analysis to identify areas of improvement.
Conducted interviews with key business users to collect information on business processes and user requirements.
Performed gap analysis between existing systems or processes and desired state, identifying areas for improvement or enhancement.
Improved business processes by analyzing current practices and recommending optimization strategies.
Analyzed key aspects of business to evaluate factors driving results and summarized into presentations.
Reduced operational costs through thorough data analysis and implementing cost-effective solutions.
Delivered analysis of market, sales and consumer trend impact on long and short-term strategies.
Generated business intelligence reports to inform strategic decision-making.
Ensured compliance with industry regulations by conducting thorough risk assessments and implementing necessary controls.
Improved business direction by prioritizing customers and implementing changes based on collected feedback.
Surveyed clients to ascertain requirements and expectations for product.
Boosted customer satisfaction levels by identifying areas of improvement and proposing actionable solutions.
Analyzed data to identify root causes of problems and recommend corrective actions.
Implemented business intelligence solutions to increase operational efficiency.
Collaborated with stakeholders to identify business needs and data sources.
Updated and developed scripts and queries to extract and analyze data from multiple sources.
Provided technical support for troubleshooting analytics and reporting issues.
Developed customized reports, summarizing and presenting data in visually appealing format.
Created data models to support decision-making processes.
Deployed predictive analytics models to forecast future trends.
Developed and maintained data warehouses and data marts to support business operations.
Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing tasks according to urgency, resource availability, and alignment with organizational goals.
Monitored project performance to identify areas of improvement and make adjustments.
Developed strong relationships with stakeholders through regular communication updates, fostering trust and confidence in the team''s ability to deliver results.
Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers, securing quality materials at competitive prices for efficient use of resources.
Developed comprehensive project plans with clear timelines, milestones, and budget requirements, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality results.
Developed and initiated projects, managed costs, and monitored performance.
Drafted project reports to identify successful outcomes, insights and future recommendations.
Prepared detailed reports on project status for stakeholders, ensuring transparency and alignment with objectives.
Project Coordinator
ICNA Relief Canada
06.2022 - 09.2022
Improved client satisfaction with timely updates and transparent communication throughout the project lifecycle.
Managed budgets effectively, ensuring resource allocation was optimized for maximum project success.
Collaborated with stakeholders to define clear project goals, leading to consistent alignment with expectations throughout the process.
Maintained accurate documentation of all projects, facilitating efficient audits and future reference.
Supervised multiple projects from project start through delivery by prioritizing needs and delegating assignments.
Developed comprehensive project plans, outlining scopes, timelines, deliverables, and milestones.
Liaised between departments to facilitate communication and keep appropriate parties updated on project developments.
Kept projects on schedule by managing deadlines and adjusting workflows.
Maintained database and spreadsheets with accurate inventory and status.
Wrote technical narratives to document processes and design changes.
Facilitated frequent progress reports and presentations to keep management informed about ongoing activities within their respective domains.
Created job files for each project and maintained current data in each file.
Conducted thorough post-project evaluations to identify areas for improvement in future initiatives.
Responded to requests for information on materials to inquiring parties.
Assembled manuals for team usage from vendor-supplied product data sheets and submittal information.
Enhanced team collaboration through regular meetings, fostering a positive work environment for increased productivity.
Established rapport and engaged with stakeholders to build lasting professional relationships.
Streamlined project management processes by implementing new organizational tools and software.
Decreased project completion times by efficiently prioritizing tasks and delegating responsibilities to team members.
Coordinated venue and catering arrangements, speaker and attendee liaison and material distribution for meetings and events.
Monitored project progress, identified risks and took corrective action as needed.
Verified quality of deliverables and conformance to specifications before submitting to clients.
Reported regularly to managers on project budget, progress, and technical problems.
Analyzed project performance data to identify areas of improvement.
Scheduled and facilitated meetings between project stakeholders to discuss deliverables, schedules and conflicts.
Business Unit Manager
EDP Services
02.2016 - 06.2022
Managed complex projects from inception to completion, ensuring timely delivery within budget constraints.
Managed budgets and resources effectively to achieve financial goals and maximize profitability.
Identified growth opportunities by staying current on industry trends and competitive landscape insights.
Enhanced employee skills with targeted training programs, contributing to a high-performing workforce.
Drove continuous improvement initiatives by soliciting feedback from employees and conducting regular reviews.
Championed process improvements that resulted in increased operational efficiency and reduced overhead expenses.
Negotiated contracts with vendors for cost-effective procurement of goods and services.
Balanced risk management with strategic objectives to optimize overall business performance outcomes.
Established productive relationships with key stakeholders, ensuring alignment of business objectives.
Strengthened organizational culture by promoting core values throughout daily operations.
Led the development of new product offerings, expanding the company''s market share and revenue streams.
Implemented innovative marketing initiatives for increased brand visibility and customer engagement.
Increased efficiency by implementing new business unit strategies and streamlining operations.
Developed strong team dynamics through regular communication, resulting in improved performance.
Monitored performance metrics regularly to identify areas for improvement and drive continuous progress.
Communicated regularly with executive leadership regarding progress updates, challenges, and achievement highlights within the unit.
Mentored junior staff members, supporting their professional growth within the organization.
Maintained positive customer relations by addressing problems head-on and implementing successful corrective actions.
Established team priorities, maintained schedules and monitored performance.
Assisted in organizing and overseeing assignments to drive operational excellence.
Maintained professional demeanor by staying calm when addressing unhappy or angry customers.
Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
Used industry expertise, customer service skills and analytical nature to resolve customer concerns and promote loyalty.
Trained personnel in equipment maintenance and enforced participation in exercises focused on developing key skills.
Improved staffing during busy periods by creating employee schedules and monitoring call-outs.
Cultivated positive rapport with fellow employees to boost company morale and promote employee retention.
Controlled resources and assets for department activities to comply with industry standards and government regulations.
Set aggressive targets for employees to drive company success and strengthen motivation.
Planned, created, tested and deployed system life cycle methodology to produce high quality systems to meet and exceed customer expectations.
Launched quality assurance practices for each phase of development
Reduced waste and pursued revenue development strategies to keep department aligned with sales and profit targets.
Established performance goals for employees and provided feedback on methods for reaching those milestones.
Trading Analyst
Foresight Investments
01.2012 - 01.2015
Kept abreast of regulatory changes, ensuring compliance with industry standards and mitigating potential risks to the organization.
Streamlined operational processes by implementing best practices in trade reconciliation and settlement procedures.
Worked closely with technology teams to develop cutting-edge tools and infrastructure that supported the evolving needs of the trading function.
Monitored market trends closely, adjusting positions accordingly to capitalize on emerging opportunities or mitigate risks.
Maintained strict adherence to internal controls and risk mitigation measures, safeguarding company assets from undue exposure.
Leveraged advanced quantitative tools to analyze large datasets, uncovering hidden trends that informed strategic trading decisions.
Managed relationships with brokers and other industry stakeholders, maintaining open communication channels for efficient issue resolution.
Drove process improvements within the team by identifying areas of inefficiency and proposing targeted solutions that increased productivity levels.
Conducted rigorous back-testing of trading strategies, refining models based on historical data analysis for enhanced future performance.
Enhanced trading strategies by conducting comprehensive market research and analysis.
Collaborated across departments to share market intelligence, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and collaboration within the organization.
Generated detailed reports for senior management, highlighting key insights into trading operations and supporting data-driven decision-making processes.
Participated in industry events and conferences, staying current on best practices and trends while expanding professional networks for future growth opportunities.
Improved portfolio performance by identifying and executing profitable trades based on technical and fundamental analysis.
Maximized profits with effective risk management techniques, ensuring the optimal balance between risk and reward.
Developed and maintained strong knowledge of multiple products and varying levels of benefits within each product.
Conducted research to answer questions and handle issues using multiple systems and resources.
Provided training and mentorship to junior analysts, fostering a culture of continuous learning within the team.
Discussed financial options with clients and provided informed suggestions.
Worked with clients to develop financial planning strategies and solutions through evaluation of finances.
Developed advanced product knowledge to share current information while generating and delivering products quotes.
Networked to identify potential new clients and expand geographic territories.
Compiled and analyzed data to determine approaches to improve sales and performance.
Offered competitive commercial banking solutions and retail financing options.
Liaised with customers and funding sources to identify and remove roadblocks to business funding.
Educated and worked with clients on ROI terms to find accurate solutions.
Worked with clients to provide competitive commercial banking solutions and retail financing plans.
Worked with clients and finance companies to find optimal solutions for financing.
Prepared contracts and related documentation according to strict standards.
Implementation Manager
Colvir Software Solutions Ltd. , United Kingdom
07.2010 - 06.2012
Mentored junior staff members through hands-on training sessions and regular performance reviews to enhance their professional growth opportunities.
Streamlined implementation processes by identifying inefficiencies and implementing best practices, resulting in reduced project timelines.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure successful project outcomes, fostering strong relationships within the organization.
Managed multiple simultaneous implementations with minimal supervision, demonstrating strong organizational skills and adaptability.
Championed change management initiatives by creating buy-in from stakeholders through clear communication of benefits and strategies, fostering a supportive environment for successful implementation outcomes.
Led technology roadmapping, conducting research, development, and installation according to deployment specifications.
Conducted thorough risk assessments for potential projects, mitigating issues before they arose during implementation phases.
Developed comprehensive training materials for new Implementation Managers, improving onboarding efficiency and team cohesion.
Spearheaded strategic planning meetings to define key goals for future projects aligning with company objectives effectively.
Negotiated contract terms with vendors and suppliers to secure favorable pricing for clients while maintaining high-quality service delivery standards.
Optimized resource allocation by accurately forecasting workload demands based on historical data analysis and current trends.
Pulled from knowledge of technical industry and technological developments to drive IT deployments.
Troubleshot technical issues during implementations, working closely with IT teams to resolve problems quickly and minimize downtime for clients involved in specific scenarios encountered.
Exceeded client expectations by delivering high-quality solutions tailored specifically to their unique needs and requirements consistently throughout projects undertaken over time range.
Presented project updates to senior leadership, highlighting successes and addressing challenges with proposed solutions, ensuring ongoing support for the implementation team''s efforts.
Created detailed project plans outlining scope, timeline, resources, and deliverables, ensuring all stakeholders were aligned with expectations.
Researched and resolved barriers to successful system functionality, improving support, and issue resolution.
Enhanced client satisfaction by proactively addressing concerns and providing timely updates on progress.
Documented processes to streamline setup, customization and maintenance.
Utilized analytical tools to evaluate post-implementation success metrics, identifying areas for further optimization or refinement as needed.
Established effective communication channels between internal teams and external clients to facilitate smooth project execution.
Implemented continuous improvement initiatives that resulted in increased efficiency across various stages of the implementation process.
Oversaw implementation lifecycle processes based on organizational needs, regulatory requirements, and customer demand.
Led a diverse team of professionals in successfully completing complex implementations on time and within budget constraints.
Communicated regularly with customers concerning data exchange and technology integration.
Led technical upgrade projects for clients by working and coordinating with consultants and developers for integrations.
Identified computer hardware and network system issues, performing troubleshooting techniques for remediation.
Oversaw development and implementation of improvements to support network operations.
Analyzed network security and current infrastructure, assessing areas in need of improvement.
Implemented and maintained technology and software budget.
Managed life cycle replacement of hardware and software.
Liaised with other departments to minimize network interruptions and possible downtimes.
Coordinated secure system access of users to various department systems and platforms.
Finance / Audit Consultant
Matin Syed & Co., Chartered Accountants
01.2007 - 06.2010
Evaluated internal control systems for effectiveness, recommending improvements as necessary.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance with regulations.
Managed multiple audit engagements simultaneously while maintaining strict adherence to timelines and budgets.
Developed customized audit plans tailored to client-specific needs and requirements.
Delivered high-quality audit reports within deadlines, resulting in increased client satisfaction levels.
Provided expert guidance on accounting standards, regulations, and best practices throughout the audit process.
Achieved timely resolution of outstanding audit issues through diligent follow-up activities with clients.
Developed strong relationships with clients built on trust, transparency, and mutual respect during each engagement phase.
Identified and resolved financial discrepancies, strengthening the overall financial integrity of the company.
Optimized resource allocation by effectively prioritizing tasks based on urgency and significance.
Facilitated clear communication between stakeholders, ensuring a smooth auditing process from inception to completion.
Advised clients on strategies for mitigating risks associated with regulatory requirements and changes in legislation.
Conducted comprehensive risk assessments for improved internal control systems.
Championed continuous improvement initiatives within the organization by sharing knowledge about industry developments.
Maintained thorough documentation of all work performed, ensuring seamless handover among team members or future reference.
Collected and reported monthly expense variances and explanations.
Provided journal entries and performed accounting on accrual basis.
Tracked funds, prepared deposits and reconciled accounts.
Maintained integrity of general ledger and chart of accounts.
Used accounting software to issue tax returns and prepare consolidated reports.
Trained new employees on accounting principles and company procedures.
Reviewed accounts, resolved coding areas, and tracked recurring expenses for accrual entry.
Partnered with auditors to track errors and add contributions to maintain accuracy.
Compiled general ledger entries on short schedule with 100% accuracy.
Found tax solutions to complicated tax issues or errors from incorrect tax filings.
Conducted technical and analytical reviews of tax returns to check for accuracy and qualified deductions.
Cooperated with senior leaders to create operating budgets and initiate financial planning.
Kept up-to-date with tax changes and industry trends by participating in professional organizations, opportunities, and networks.
Developed financial models to assess and analyze financial performance of clients.
Diminished outstanding debts by analyzing accounts for issues.
Collaborated with accounting manager to comply with governing bodies and limit regulatory risks.
Identified legal tax savings and recommended ways to improve profits.
Initiated comprehensive account assessments to check viability, stability, and profitability of business operations.
Researched technical tax issues to define tax effect or impact of certain tax positions.
Systems Analyst / ERP Manager
EDP Services Singapore / Karachi
12.1992 - 12.2006
Established effective relationships with key stakeholders across departments to facilitate collaboration on critical projects.
Negotiated contracts with vendors for hardware and software purchases, maximizing ROI on technology investments.
Gathered requirements and performed gap analysis through design workshops with users.
Investigated system issues and implemented resolutions to reduce downtime.
Resolved or escalated problem tickets to resolve user issues.
Performed system analysis, documentation, testing, implementation, and user support for platform transitions.
Installed system updates to address vulnerabilities and reduce security issues.
Diagnosed, troubleshot and resolved network and system problems.
Defined and documented scope of projects for distribution to team.
Provided client support on system operation and troubleshooting.
Assessed business requirements to create focused solutions.
Educated stakeholders on data protection tactics to reduce breaches.
Established specifications and coordinated production with software programmers.
Researched and adopted new technologies to add value to existing offerings.
Planned computer systems using information engineering, data modeling, and structured analysis.
Developed diagrams to describe and lay out logical operational steps.
Presented business leaders with ROI estimations to drive project planning.
Conducted system analysis and implementation to maintain and improve computer systems.
Resolved malfunctions with systems and programs through troubleshooting.
Organized system operating procedures to strengthen controls.
Enhanced interfaces to promote better functionality for users.
Conducted comprehensive data analysis to identify patterns and trends, informing decision-making processes.
Led a team of developers in the successful completion of large-scale projects, fostering a positive work environment.
Managed multiple projects simultaneously, consistently meeting deadlines and budget constraints.
Evaluated current systems and recommended improvements, ensuring optimal performance levels were maintained.
Initiated process improvement initiatives that led to cost savings while maintaining high-quality output standards.
Mentored junior analysts on best practices in systems analysis techniques, contributing to their professional growth.
Streamlined processes for improved productivity through thorough systems analysis and optimization.
Conducted regular system audits to ensure compliance with security protocols and best practices.
Trained new hires on company-specific software tools, ensuring seamless integration into the team''s workflow.
Provided expert technical support, reducing system downtime and minimizing disruptions to daily operations.
Enhanced system efficiency by identifying and resolving complex technical issues.
Developed customized software applications for diverse clients, resulting in increased customer satisfaction.
Assisted in the development of long-term IT strategies aligned with overarching organizational goals.
Designed user-friendly interfaces for various software applications, increasing ease of use and functionality.
Implemented strategic IT initiatives, contributing to overall company growth and success.
Analyzed existing systems and databases and recommended enhancements to solve business needs
Troubleshot incidents reported by end-users to schedule system changes and identify permanent solutions.
Communicated and explained business requirements to team members to understand and implement functional demands.
Collaborated with upper management to drive strategy and implement new processes.
Offered input for complex documents to support client-ready final versions.
Ensured data integrity through rigorous quality control measures, maintaining accuracy across all modules.
Oversaw document development across project workstreams to create internal control statements per compliance and regulatory standards.
Performed internal system acceptance to deliver well-tested enhancements and meet business requirements.
Enhanced project management skills by defining and presenting system solutions and timelines for business needs or technical problems.
Collaborated with stakeholders to define business requirements and develop customized ERP solutions.
Cultivated strong vendor relationships, negotiating favorable contracts for software and services related to the organization''s ERP needs.
Established robust security protocols to safeguard sensitive company data within the ERP system from unauthorized access or breaches.
Managed change effectively, ensuring minimal disruption during ERP system upgrades or migrations.
Enhanced system performance with periodic reviews and appropriate updates for optimal results.
Streamlined ERP processes by identifying inefficiencies and implementing targeted solutions.
Fostered an environment that encouraged innovation, empowering team members to contribute their insights towards enhancing the overall effectiveness of ERP-driven processes.
Evaluated emerging technologies proactively, recommending enhancements that aligned with organizational objectives and improved overall efficiency of operations managed through the ERP platform.
Oversaw migration projects seamlessly, facilitating smooth transitions from legacy systems onto newer platforms without compromising on data fidelity or functionality losses during critical cutover phases.
Spearheaded user training initiatives, equipping employees with the necessary skills to navigate the ERP system efficiently.
Led cross-functional teams to successfully complete ERP implementation projects on time and within budget.
Troubleshot complex technical issues swiftly, minimizing downtime and loss of productivity due to unexpected disruptions in service availability.
Launched internal audit initiatives periodically that adhered rigorously to compliance standards while mitigating the risks associated with potential regulatory breaches linked to ERP system usage.
Developed comprehensive contingency plans, anticipating possible failures and outlining appropriate recovery strategies for swift restoration of business continuity in crisis situations.
Identified computer hardware and network system issues, performing troubleshooting techniques for remediation.
Oversaw development and implementation of improvements to support network operations.
Managed life cycle replacement of hardware and software.
Implemented and maintained technology and software budget.
Led technical upgrade projects for clients by working and coordinating with consultants and developers for integrations.
Analyzed network security and current infrastructure, assessing areas in need of improvement.
Coordinated secure system access of users to various department systems and platforms.
Wrote strategic business plans outlining need for departmental information technology resources.
Liaised with other departments to minimize network interruptions and possible downtimes.