Certified Senior Scrum Master (CSM), Certified Senior Project Manager, Certified Release Train Engineer (RTE), Certified Product Owner (CSPO) Certified Program MANAGER (CPM) and Agile Coach Professional Summary I am a highly accomplished SAFe Scrum Master/Senior Project Manager and Agile Delivery Manager with a strong track record of successfully managing Agile Release Trains (ARTs) and multiple Scrum Teams. My expertise lies in driving both execution and transformation to create effective Agile Delivery Environments. I hold certifications as a Scrum Master, Project Manager, Release Train Engineer, Product Owner, Agile Coach, and Prince2 Practitioner, further enhancing my skill set. With 18 years of experience in global projects and programs across various sectors, I have consistently delivered exceptional results in planning, execution, management, and Agile transformation. I have led multiple Agile Release Trains (ARTs) using the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), demonstrating my ability to excel in both Waterfall and Agile practices. My industry experience spans Telecommunications, Banking, Insurance, and Aviation, where I have successfully delivered complex Programs/Agile Release Trains (ARTs). As a Servant Leader, I approach my work with a 'Can Do' attitude and thrive in challenging yet highly rewarding environments. I possess a deep understanding of Scrum and Kanban principles, utilizing them effectively to drive digital transformation and generate substantial profits. I have a proven track record in facilitating Cloud Implementations, Network and Infrastructure Rollouts, and delivering new software developments or complex upgrades. Additionally, I am adept at devising and implementing strategic integration plans, leading change management initiatives, and driving business transformation. Overall, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise in Agile project management, enabling organizations to achieve their goals and realize their full potential in today's dynamic business landscape.
Hi, I’m
DONOVAN NAIDOO
Agile Delivery Manager
Dubai Marina
Summary
Overview
19
years of professional experience
10
Certifications
Work History
Emirates AirlineDubai
Agile Delivery Manager / Senior Scrum Master
01.2022 - Current
Job overview
- Aviation Industry)
- Highlights
- Successfully delivered the implementation of a new Common Payment Gateway (CPG) for Emirates, utilizing Micro Services architecture, resulting in the elimination of security risks and substantial improvements in process optimization
- The project's outcomes included a 30% reduction in cycle time and a 50% decrease in transaction time, leading to a more robust solution that significantly enhanced operational efficiency and customer satisfaction
- Responsibilities
- Provided expert support to the Release Train Engineer (RTE) in orchestrating crucial ceremonies like PI Planning and PI Demos, ensuring seamless execution of these pivotal events
- Facilitated and organized Scrum events, including Sprint Planning, Daily Stand-ups, Sprint Reviews, and Retrospectives, ensuring adherence to the Scrum framework
- Identified and resolved impediments and obstacles that impeded the progress of the Scrum team, working closely with team members and stakeholders to create a productive working environment
- Offered consultative guidance to establish the optimal combination of people, process, and tools required to support the Agile framework
- Collaborated closely with teams to identify and implement tailored Agile practices that maximized their efficiency and productivity
- Functioned as a trusted coach, empowering team members with valuable guidance and support to optimize the performance of the Release Train Teams
- Implemented strategies that fostered teamwork, collaboration, and overall excellence
- Demonstrated expertise in integrating traditional project management principles with Agile development approaches
- Guided teams in striking a harmonious balance between agility and predictability, leveraging PMI-ACP principles, and ensuring appropriate levels of planning for initiatives of all sizes
- Cultivated a safe and trusting environment where team members felt comfortable raising concerns and addressing problems
- Emphasized proactive problem-solving and healing, promoting open communication and constructive feedback
- Embodied a Servant Leadership style, diligently protecting and supporting the teams by setting an example and offering necessary assistance
- Leveraged facilitation skills to enable effective work completion, fostered discussions, facilitated decision-making, and resolved conflicts
- Prioritized quality and ensured strict adherence to the Definition of Done (DoD)
- Engaged team members in comprehensive story development and empowered them to contribute meaningfully
- Enforced a sustainable pace aligned with the agreed quality management plan
- Assisted in team development by holding teams accountable for their commitments, removing obstacles that impeded progress, and leveraging cross-functional team skills to enhance velocity
- Supported the Technical Product Manager in managing business expectations and promoting transparency in the product backlog and schedule for all initiatives
- Collaborated with senior stakeholders (up to SVP level) to align objectives and facilitate clear communication
- Defined and managed a well-defined process for Agile Delivery Management, championing continuous improvement initiatives and implementing best practices
- Strived relentlessly for ongoing optimization of project delivery
- Implemented effective Agile governance practices, including key ceremonies, and drove continuous improvement through regular assessments of velocity and feature delivery
- Oversaw cost estimation and sizing exercises for near-term and future initiatives, collaborating closely with the business and product teams to prepare comprehensive total cost of ownership analyses
- Provided valuable insights for financial planning and decision-making processes.
- Planned Agile best practices and encouraged team cohesion, overcoming impediments, and hurdles to productivity.
- Led sprint reviews and planning meetings to promote full team engagement.
Liberty InsuranceJohannesburg
Senior Scrum Master / Project Manager
02.2019 - 12.2021
Job overview
- Successfully developed and released a new Claims System, achieving a remarkable 70% reduction in turnaround time
- This resulted in an annual cost savings of R1000000, demonstrating effective project management and delivering significant value to the organization
- Implemented Salesforce Workbench across the organization ahead of schedule, enabling efficient data management and analysis
- This initiative directly contributed to a notable 15% increase in sales for the current financial year, showcasing the ability to drive positive business outcomes through effective technology implementations
- Played a pivotal role as a founding member of the Lean Agile Centre (LACE) of Excellence, spearheading the establishment of an Agile foundation within the organization
- This initiative contributed to the successful adoption of Agile methodologies and practices, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and enhanced project delivery
- Responsibilities
- Successfully led Agile transformation initiatives within the organization, effectively managing teams that initially resisted the transition to Agile methodologies
- Implemented strategies and techniques to promote adoption and overcome resistance, resulting in successful Agile adaption and improved project outcomes
- Established and supported Communities of Practice (CoPs) to foster organizational understanding of Agile roles and facilitate the professional development of individuals in their respective roles
- This initiative promoted knowledge sharing, collaboration, and continuous learning across the organization
- Led and facilitated delivery teams on the Agile Release Train (ART) throughout the entire development, testing, and delivery process
- Provided guidance and support to ensure smooth and efficient execution of projects, fostering a high-performing and collaborative team environment
- Orchestrated and facilitated various ART-level ceremonies, including Scrum of Scrums, Product Owner Sync, PI Planning ART sync, Problem Solving Workshops, and Hackathons
- These sessions promoted cross-team collaboration, alignment, and problem-solving, enhancing overall project effectiveness
- Generated and tracked key metrics such as Burn-Down Charts and Cumulative Flow Diagrams at the program level
- Developed comprehensive dashboards and automated reporting systems across multiple ARTs, providing valuable insights and enabling data-driven decision-making
- Facilitated Agile ceremonies for the team, including Daily Stand-Up, Sprint Planning, Backlog Refinement, Sprint Demo, and Retrospective meetings
- Created an environment conducive to effective collaboration, communication, and continuous improvement
- Proactively identified and resolved team impediments on a daily basis, ensuring uninterrupted progress toward sprint goals and deliverables
- Employed problem-solving skills and effective communication to remove obstacles and enable team success
- Facilitated discussions, decision-making processes, and conflict resolution within the team
- Created a supportive and inclusive environment that encouraged open dialogue, consensus-building, and effective problem-solving
- Managed internal and external communication, enhancing transparency and disseminating relevant information to stakeholders
- Fostered strong relationships with stakeholders and product owners, gaining a deep understanding of strategic, tactical, and operational challenges within business units
- Utilized this knowledge to define technology solutions and address critical issues
- Served as a SAFe facilitator and coach, providing guidance and support to delivery teams in Agile, Scrum, and SAFe methodologies
- Enabled consistent value delivery by promoting best practices, resolving challenges, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement
- Acted as a liaison between business, sales, and IT teams, effectively communicating and refining product requirements based on market demands
- Ensured alignment between business goals and technological solutions, driving product innovation and customer satisfaction
- Enabled improvements in team delivery velocity and capacity planning for sprints by identifying and tracking team improvements
- Implemented strategies to enhance efficiency, productivity, and overall team performance.
- Coached teams in Agile practices and provided necessary training to create positive mindset to Agile methodologies.
- Collaborated with product owners, team members, technologists, and other scrum masters to define solutions and drive progress.
Standard BankJohannesburg
Senior Scrum Master / Release Train Engineer (RTE) / Project Manager
05.2013 - 12.2018
Job overview
- Successfully led the O365 Cloud implementation Agile Release Train, overseeing teams across 16 different countries in Africa, with all reporting lines centralized under my supervision in South Africa
- Efficiently orchestrated the migration of Standard Bank's footprint within Africa to Azure, completing the project two months ahead of schedule and within the allocated program budget
- The outcomes of this achievement include a notable 20% increase in productivity and substantial cost savings of R15,000,000 in infrastructure expenses across Africa
- Responsibilities
- Proficiently facilitate Scrum Daily Stand-Up, Backlog Refinement, Sprint Planning, Sprint Review & Sprint Retrospective meetings, ensuring effective collaboration and progress tracking
- Lead team and cross-team Retrospectives, fostering strong working relationships across 16 countries for enhanced teamwork and knowledge sharing
- Utilize historical data to determine team capacity and velocity, enabling accurate planning and establishing a sustainable cadence
- Diligently identify, track, analyse, prioritize, and mitigate risks, blockers, and issues, proactively escalating when necessary to ensure smooth project execution
- Effectively communicate progress to senior management using 'Burndown Charts' and structured reports generated through Jira, providing clear insights and updates on project status
- Streamline and optimize the flow of value throughout the program, leveraging tools such as Program Kanban boards and information radiators for enhanced visibility and transparency
- Consolidate Team PI Objectives into Program PI Objectives, publishing them for increased visibility and alignment across the program
- Drive program-level continuous improvement initiatives through Retrospectives, Inspect and Adapt workshops, and consistent demonstration of a Kaizen mindset
- Spearhead cultural change efforts and collaborate with other coaches to develop plans and techniques for accelerating and advancing the organization's transformation across Africa.
- Led sprint reviews and planning meetings to promote full team engagement.
- Facilitated Scrum framework – sprint planning, backlog grooming, daily scrums, sprint reviews, and sprint retrospectives.
JascoJohannesburg
Senior Project Manager
02.2013 - 04.2013
Job overview
- Highlights
- Successfully established and implemented the Project Management Office (PMO) for the organization, leading the strategic planning, governance, and implementation of standardized project management methodologies, processes, and training programs, resulting in improved project execution, enhanced collaboration, and measurable impact on project success and organizational performance
- Responsibilities
- Successfully implemented best practices and standards in Project Management within the Project Management Office, ensuring efficient and effective project execution
- Expertly plan and implement Project Management Waterfall structures, aligning projects with organizational objectives and strategic priorities
- Build strong credibility and establish rapport with stakeholders at various levels, both internal and external, fostering effective communication and collaboration
- Assist in the compilation of project budgets, project plans, and resource plans, ensuring accurate financial and resource allocation
- Monitor project spending and allocate expenses to appropriate cost accounts, maintaining financial control and accountability
- Efficiently manage and administer project communications, meeting coordination, record keeping, and documentation control, ensuring smooth project operations
- Schedule and coordinate installations, travel itineraries, and arrangements, optimizing logistics for project activities
- Authorize and drive initiatives aimed at eliminating waste, improving productivity, and reducing operating costs, contributing to overall organizational efficiency
- Implement successful change initiatives, effectively planning and optimizing resource utilization within the designated area
- Consult with the Regional Service Delivery Manager to assess available skills and resources for meeting project requirements, ensuring appropriate staffing and expertise.
- Oversaw large portfolio of projects to support teams, report progress, and influence positive outcomes for key stakeholders.
- Monitored contracts and service level agreements to identify potential risks and implement mitigation actions to protect development process from unforeseen delays and costs.
- Communicated project plans and progress to key stakeholders and project contributors.
iBurstJohannesburg
Senior Project Manager / Change Control Manager
03.2009 - 02.2013
Job overview
- Highlights
- Successfully led the integration of the Seacom underwater network into the iBurst network, transitioning iBurst to a Tier 1 network provider
- This strategic initiative enhanced iBurst's network capabilities, expanding its reach and positioning it as a leading player in the telecommunications industry
- The seamless integration resulted in improved network performance, increased reliability, and expanded service offerings, contributing to the company's growth and competitiveness in the market
- Responsibilities
- Successfully implemented Project Management best practice standards and procedures across all areas of iBurst, ensuring consistent and effective project delivery
- Led the planning and implementation of a Project Office, establishing processes and procedures to support multiple projects and programs within the live production network
- Developed a comprehensive change management strategy, considering the specific details of each change and the groups impacted by them, ensuring smooth transitions and minimizing disruptions
- Took ownership of all Change Management activities, including new business planning, facilitating the Change Advisory Board (CAB) meetings, managing Request for Changes (RFCs), and maintaining the change schedule
- Effectively managed Service Level Agreements (SLAs) both internally and with external contractors, ensuring service quality and delivery met expectations
- Conducted detailed business diagnosis to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement, enabling targeted initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and drive organizational growth.
- Partnered with project team members to identify and quickly address problems.
- Oversaw large portfolio of projects to support teams, report progress, and influence positive outcomes for key stakeholders.
MTN South AfricaJohannesburg
Packet Switch Engineer
10.2007 - 02.2009
Job overview
- Successfully spearheaded and delivered complex projects for the implementation of new enhanced GPRS nodes, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance
- Took a leadership role in driving the integration of new packet switch network and Tx technologies, facilitating improved network capabilities and enhanced user experience
- Responsibilities
- GPRS, 3G, and Edge Core Networks, aligning them with the business objectives of MTN
- Demonstrated expertise in maintaining and supporting the core Packet switch data network to ensure compliance with Network Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Led the co-design, implementation, and support of ancillary networks, including FR, Cisco IP, Circuit Switch, and Security, to enhance the overall functionality of the core networks
- Implemented auxiliary node infrastructure for all core networks, ensuring seamless connectivity and optimal performance
- Provided full support and maintenance for the core packet switch GPRS network (GGSN, SGSN), with additional support for the circuit switch (MSC, HLR, VLR, EIR, and MGW) to guarantee uninterrupted network operations
- Demonstrated strong project management and administrative skills across all areas of responsibility, including ISO compliance
- Collaborated in the planning, integration, and support of new Packet Technologies, Network Technologies, and Tx Technologies, contributing to the continuous improvement of network capabilities
- Played a pivotal role in the planning and implementation of upgrades for the GGSN and SGSN, ensuring the network remains up-to-date and capable of meeting evolving demands
- Successfully managed all projects to completion, overseeing timelines, resources, and deliverables to achieve project objectives.
- Applied effective time management techniques to meet tight deadlines.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
Ericsson South AfricaJohannesburg
Packet Switch Managed Service Engineer
08.2006 - 10.2007
Job overview
- Highlights
- Successfully contributed to the Packet Switch Implementation team, being seconded to Malaysia for the construction of a new network from the ground up
- Played a key role in the successful Beta Go Live of the network, specifically in setting up new GGSN Nodes
- Responsibilities
- Provided 1st line troubleshooting and fault logging on customer sites, promptly identifying and resolving technical issues to minimize downtime and ensure optimal network performance
- Conducted Operation & Maintenance activities on the GPRS Support Nodes (GSN), ensuring their smooth operation and addressing any potential issues proactively
- Performed Preventative Maintenance on the GSN, implementing preventive measures to minimize the risk of network disruptions and maintain network reliability
- Took responsibility for backing up the node to safeguard against network failures, ensuring data integrity and quick recovery in case of emergencies
- Delivered technical service and support to new customer networks, offering expertise in both telecom and datacom domains to ensure successful implementation and operation
- Planned, designed, and troubleshooted customer networks, resolving problems and optimizing network performance to enhance stability and efficiency
- Assisted in the configuration and integration of different nodes and solutions, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless interoperability and efficient deployment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Provided professional services and support in a dynamic work environment.
The Innovation FactoryJohannesburg
Technical Support
08.2005 - 04.2006
Job overview
- Developed and implemented procedures for effective project and site management, streamlining processes and enhancing operational efficiency
- Took charge of internal technical and IT support, resolving technical issues and providing timely assistance to maintain smooth operations
- Successfully drove sales of new products, actively participating in the full design and implementation process for new customers, ensuring their specific requirements were met
- Provided valuable assistance in project management, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure projects were delivered on time and within budget.
- Assisted with updating technical support best practices for use by team.
- Managed high levels of call flow and responded to [Type] technical support needs.
PricewaterhouseCoopersDurban
Forensic Investigator
12.2004 - 07.2005
Job overview
- Conducted meticulous proofreading of documents, carefully scrutinizing content to identify possible fraudulent information and discrepancies, ensuring accuracy and integrity
- Conducted thorough investigations of client files, analyzing specific details to detect and prevent fraudulent activities
- Assumed responsibility for performing timing system audits for Woolworths Food, ensuring compliance and accuracy in timekeeping processes
- Effectively delegated tasks and closely monitored performance to ensure efficient and timely completion of assigned responsibilities.
Education
University of KwaZulu
Bachelor of Science: BSc from Computer Science (Telecommunications
University Overview
Skills
Agile Delivery
Certification
Agile Methodologies Jira and Confluence Stakeholder Management
Accomplishments
Accomplishments
- Achieved [Result] by introducing [Software] for [Type] tasks.
Timeline
Agile Delivery Manager / Senior Scrum Master
Emirates Airline
01.2022 - Current
Senior Scrum Master / Project Manager
Liberty Insurance
02.2019 - 12.2021
Senior Scrum Master / Release Train Engineer (RTE) / Project Manager
Standard Bank
05.2013 - 12.2018
Senior Project Manager
Jasco
02.2013 - 04.2013
Senior Project Manager / Change Control Manager
iBurst
03.2009 - 02.2013
Packet Switch Engineer
MTN South Africa
10.2007 - 02.2009
Packet Switch Managed Service Engineer
Ericsson South Africa
08.2006 - 10.2007
Technical Support
The Innovation Factory
08.2005 - 04.2006
Forensic Investigator
PricewaterhouseCoopers
12.2004 - 07.2005
University of KwaZulu
Bachelor of Science: BSc from Computer Science (Telecommunications
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