Technology Transformation & Program Leadership Executive

Email: ziroopl@outlook.com | Phone: 0477 763 584 | LinkedIn | Melbourne, AU

Executive Summary

Visionary technology leader with 25+ years of experience driving enterprise-wide digital transformation and infrastructure modernization across telecommunications and aviation sectors. Expert in delivering complex, high-value technology programs that enhance cybersecurity, improve connectivity, and enable innovation. Proven ability to align technology strategy with business objectives, lead cross-functional teams, and foster executive-level stakeholder engagement to achieve operational excellence and sustainable growth.

Core Competencies

Technology Strategy & Digital Transformation
Enterprise Architecture & Infrastructure Modernization
Cybersecurity & Risk Management
Cloud & Network Solutions (MPLS, WAN, LAN, VHF, ADS-B)
Vendor & Partner Management (Telstra, Optus, Nokia, Cisco, Arista)
Agile & Hybrid Delivery Frameworks
Financial Governance & Budget Optimization
Executive Stakeholder Engagement

Professional Experience

Airservices Australia – Melbourne, AU

Program Manager, Technology Transformation | 2018 – Present

Key Achievements:

Delivered $100M+ MPLS network modernization program 10% under budget, reducing cybersecurity risk and enabling advanced connectivity for critical aviation systems.
Migrated 105 ground stations to next-generation Optus satellite network, achieving record deployment speed of one site per 24 hours.
Integrated cutting-edge technologies (satellite, terrestrial, microwave) into Airservices’ complex network, ensuring resilience and scalability for future aviation needs.
Established strategic partnerships with Telstra, Optus, Nokia, Defence, and CASA, ensuring compliance and operational readiness.
Recognised for dynamic leadership and innovation; recipient of multiple internal awards and high engagement scores.

Scope & Responsibilities:

Directed end-to-end delivery of technology transformation programs across 100+ sites, including greenfield deployments and major remediation projects.
Led cross-functional teams of program managers, engineers, and technical experts in highly regulated environments.
Implemented advanced reporting and governance frameworks to improve transparency and executive decision-making.

Telstra – Melbourne, AU

Senior Project Manager, Global Network Transformation | 2017 – 2018

Delivered $2M Global Media Network upgrade, transitioning from Cisco 2-tier to Arista 3-tier architecture, improving global network performance and scalability.
Managed deployment of Point of Presence sites in major global cities (London, LA, Hong Kong, New York, Singapore, Tokyo, Taipei).
Oversaw Agile and Hybrid delivery strategies, including sprint planning, risk management, and vendor negotiations with Cisco, Arista, and Ericsson.

NBN – Melbourne, AU

Senior Project Manager, Technology Programs | 2015 – 2017

Spearheaded rollout of Fibre to Basement (FTTB) technology and validated Proof of Concept for Fibre to Curb (FTTC), enabling successful commercial deployment.
Improved data accuracy and reporting by migrating High Value Multi Dwelling Units program from spreadsheets to Tableau and P6.
Led continuous improvement initiatives, automated reporting, and enhanced operational efficiency.

Ericsson – Melbourne, AU

Customer Project Manager | 2013 – 2014

Key Achievements:

Streamlined processes and improved project readiness by tailoring matrices between Telstra and Ericsson’s PROPS-C methodology, including Requirements Traceability Matrix, Project Readiness Review, Risk-based Review, Security Assessment Report, and Technical Readiness Review.
Enhanced risk management by applying Change Control and Risk Management practices in line with Ericsson processes and addressing issues through Change Control Board (CCB).
Achieved accurate supplier payments and ensured compliance by managing Purchase to Pay Project for Customer Unit Australia & New Zealand, adhering to Ericsson Business Process and EBP directives.

Additional Experience

Senior Project Manager, Comms Resources, Remote
Lead Customer Project Manager, Ericsson, Botswana
Customer Project Manager, Ericsson, Lesotho
Project Manager, Ericsson, Ghana
Project Manager, Ericsson, Nigeria
Manager Core Network, Econet, Lesotho
Various technical and engineering roles, global (including China, Spain and USA)

Education & Certifications

Master of Business Administration (MBA), Australian Institute of Business, Adelaide, AU

Certifications:

Program Management Professional Certificate (PgMP), Project Management Institute
Project Management Professional Certificate (PMP), Project Management Institute
Post Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security, La Trobe University
Advanced Project Management Certificate, Boston University
Project Management Body of Knowledge Certificate (PMBOK), Project Management Institute