Shanaka Perera
Director Of IT / Head Of IT
Dubai
Summary
Experienced and dynamic IT leader with over 15 years of experience with a proven track record of successfully driving digital transformation initiatives and overseeing comprehensive IT strategies. Adept at implementing ISO 27001, PCI, GDPR framework and Security standards, managing and leading multifaceted IT projects including in house development and developing innovative IT solutions and robust infrastructure. Committed to maintaining and enhancing IT security and governance, while efficiently managing IT operations and dynamic IT Team.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
12
12
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Senior Manager - IT (Head of IT)
Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority
Ras Al Khaimah
2022.07 - Current
- Pioneered and executed a comprehensive digital transformation roadmap, enhancing operational efficiency and enabling seamless adoption of emerging technologies. This included incorporating new system for collecting guest statistics from hotels across RAK and implementation new Licensing and Tourist Permit system.
- Successfully led the implementation of ISO27001 framework, ensuring stringent data security and compliance standards across the organization.
- Managed and supervised a portfolio of diverse IT projects, consistently delivering projects on time and within budget.
- Spearheaded the development of cutting-edge IT solutions, elevating user experience and streamlining business processes.
Orchestrated the revamp of IT infrastructure, optimizing system performance, scalability, and reliability. - Established and reinforced a culture of IT security and governance, resulting in a robust and resilient IT environment.
- Efficiently managed day-to-day IT operations, ensuring uninterrupted services and prompt issue resolution.
IT Project Manager
Dodeca Holding
Dubai
2019.01 - 2022.03
- Development of Ultra Luxury Hotel Project - Kisawa Sanctuary
- Developed project management roadmap to define project objectives, timelines and milestones and budgeting
- Implemented all system ERP and rolling out and training
- Managed and maintained systems and infrastructure environments at corporate office and remote locations
- Implemented Payment Gateway integration and Web Site Development
- Developed and Managed company SharePoint and Azure Cloud Setup
Senior Technology Manager
InterContinental Dubai Marina
Dubai
2014.08 - 2018.12
- Strategic IT Planing and Development
- Development of 5 star Hotel project - InterContinental Dubai Marina
- Analyzed architecture design, scoping, implementation, testing and deployment needs to define project requirements
- Interviewed, hired, trained and mentored IT and AV staff by coaching daily, leading performance reviews and offering constructive feedback
- Installed and managed audiovisual equipment across Restaurants and Meeting Rooms
- Wrote policy, procedure and manuals governing internal IT use.
Technology Manager
Holiday Inn
Abu Dhabi
2011.10 - 2014.07
- Provided leadership and support for IT department
- Evaluated and adopted new technologies to address changing industry needs
- Investigated and addressed system issues to enhance
- Excellent usability and improve functionality
- Organized system infrastructure documentation and operating
IT Operation Manager
Crowne Plaza Hotel
Sohar
2008.06 - 2011.09
- Development of 4 star Hotel Property - Crowne Plaza Sohar
- Guided organizational technology strategy and roadmaps
- Adjusted project plans to account for dynamic targets, staffing changes and operational specifications
- Reviewed and assessed architecture design, implementation, testing and deployment needs to identify project requirements and costs
- Delivered effective integrations of ERP system software applications to centrally manage tasks.
Education
Master of Science - Digital Transformation
2022.01 - 2023.07
MBA - Information Technology
2007.01 - 2010.03
Membership ID 751309 ISACA - System Security
2013.01 - 2015.12
Membership ID 399498 - ISC2 - IT Security
2011.01 - 2012.12
Membership ID CSCO11196267 CISCO - Networking
2007.01 - 2007.12
Membership ID – 3426797 Microsoft - IT Systems
2005.01 - 2006.03
Skills
Risk mitigation planningundefined
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Timeline
Senior Manager - IT (Head of IT) - Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority
2022.07 - Current
Bermingham City University - Master of Science, Digital Transformation
2022.01 - 2023.07
IT Project Manager - Dodeca Holding
2019.01 - 2022.03
Senior Technology Manager - InterContinental Dubai Marina
2014.08 - 2018.12
Certified Information System Auditor (CISA): - Membership ID 751309 ISACA, System Security
2013.01 - 2015.12
Technology Manager - Holiday Inn
2011.10 - 2014.07
Certified Information System Security Professional - Membership ID 399498 - ISC2, IT Security
2011.01 - 2012.12
IT Operation Manager - Crowne Plaza Hotel
2008.06 - 2011.09
University of Wales - MBA, Information Technology
2007.01 - 2010.03
CISCO Certified Network Associate (CCNA) - Membership ID CSCO11196267 CISCO, Networking
2007.01 - 2007.12
Microsoft Certified System Engineer (MCSE) - Membership ID – 3426797 Microsoft , IT Systems
2005.01 - 2006.03
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