Iftikhar Ahmed
Programme Implementation Manager @Saga plc.
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WORK HISTORY
Programme Implementation Manager @Saga plc.
GB
As Programme Implementation Manager for the Saga Insurance business, I lead implementation planning and execution for a major strategic transformation programme following Saga’s partnership with Ageas. My role focuses on delivering the implementation strategy for a large-scale insurance data migration and operational transition, ensuring programme readiness across multiple projects, systems, and business functions.I define and manage the programme’s implementation framework, including governance for Go/No-Go decision making, the Schedule of Events / Runbooks, Cutover, Business and Event Readiness, and Hypercare activities. Working closely with cross-functional teams across Change functions, Compliance and Risk, Marketing, Operations, Pricing, Product, Technology, and Trading I ensure implementation planning aligns with organisational objectives and supports a controlled transition to the new operating model.I lead a small implementation team consisting of a Business Readiness Manager and two Implementation Analysts, providing direction and coordination across programme implementation activities while ensuring effective collaboration across workstreams.A key aspect of my role is identifying programme-level risks and developing mitigation strategies to support a complex migration involving multiple systems, third parties, and stakeholders. I provide regular updates on implementation progress, risks, and readiness to senior stakeholders and programme leadership, ensuring transparency and alignment.Through structured governance, stakeholder engagement, and robust implementation planning, I support the successful delivery of the programme while maintaining operational stability for Saga’s insurance customers.
EDUCATION
Govt Graduate College, Jhelum City, Pakistan
Bachelor of Arts (B.A), Economics
FG Boys Public Secondary School Jhelum Cantt, Pakistan
GCSE
ABOUT IFTIKHAR AHMED
I am a commercially astute change and transformation professional with over 17 years of experience delivering impactful improvements across key business areas. With a strong understanding of business and operational risk principles, legal concepts, and regulatory compliance, I am dedicated to driving results through effective relationship-building and collaboration.My hands-on, delivery-centric approach utilizes Agile, Waterfall, MSP, PMP, and PRINCE2 methodologies, supported by formal qualifications. I am fully experienced in end-to-end solution design and delivery, crafting business cases, cost/benefit analyses, PIDs, project plans, RAID logs, and benefits realization plans.In my recent role as Implementation Director, I led change management and governance for our UK business, organizing and chairing key governance meetings with senior management to ensure alignment and strategic direction. I successfully integrated a mobile repair company with 38 retail stores following its acquisition, enhancing operational efficiency and cultural alignment, which honed my skills in merging processes and technologies. I Led the business transition to Agile, owning the Product Owner role for our UK platforms. Developing product backlogs, communicating the business vision to Scrum teams, and leading PI planning events, demonstrating Agile expertise and results.I am passionate about empowering individuals through inclusive leadership, fostering motivation, and facilitating personal development. Driven and resilient, I continuously seek challenges that push me to grow and deliver excellence in every undertaking.My specialties include- Change Management & Transformation- Business Integration (M&A)- SAFe Scales Agile Product Ownership (POPM) & Program Consultancy (SPC)- Program & Project Management (APM, PMI, PRINCE2)- Continuous Improvement- Cross-Functional Team Building- Effective Communication & Capacity Management- Lean Portfolio Planning & ManagementI remain dedicated to the bigger picture while focusing on the details that drive success. Let’s connect to explore opportunities to create value and drive positive change together.
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