Khaled Al Thekair

- Directed enterprise IT strategy and transformation initiatives across 42 international offices, aligning with the airline’s strategic and financial goals. - Led modernization of infrastructure through SD-WAN, private cloud, virtualization, and automation enhancing efficiency and global service reliability. - Implemented large-scale digital transformation projects: HR systems overhaul, aircraft scheduling modernization, internet booking engine upgrade, and onboard services automation. - Established comprehensive cybersecurity and governance frameworks introducing policies, procedures, and staffing to safeguard enterprise systems. - Drove IT budgeting using zero-based methodologies to optimize resource utilization and financial transparency. - Mentored senior leaders and department heads, instilling a culture of agility, accountability, and innovation.

Oversaw corporate strategy, financial performance, and enterprise risk management for a KSE-listed company. Member of Risk Management & Audit Committee: reviewed risk analysis, internal and external audits, and provided actionable recommendations to the board. Participated in strategic committee: advised on company-wide KPIs, monitored CEO performance, and ensured alignment with organizational objectives.

Developed medium- and long-term IT strategy aligned with corporate goals using zero-based budgeting. Led enterprise digital transformation initiatives, including: HR systems transformation, aircraft scheduling & movement system, modernization of the internet booking engine, aircraft maintenance system integration, and onboard services automation. Modernized IT infrastructure across 42 countries and 122 offices, implementing SDWAN, private cloud, and virtualization solutions. Built foundational cybersecurity framework: policies, procedures, tools, and staffing. Established Agile software delivery methodology and Cascading Key Performance Indicators. Mentored IT department heads to drive innovation, operational excellence, and strategic execution.

- Founded the Strategic Planning & Projects Department, translating organizational objectives into actionable programs and measurable KPIs. - Partnered with global consultancies including McKinsey, Strategy&, Seabury, Protiviti, and RSM to deliver transformation projects. - Introduced frameworks for prioritization and demand management to optimize strategic investments. - Evaluated enterprise initiatives for financial and operational viability, ensuring strong ROI and strategic alignment. - Supported cross-department transformation projects that enhanced efficiency, reduced costs, and improved customer experience.

- Oversaw operations across three GCC markets, managing strategy, financials, and business development for data center infrastructure solutions. - Expanded market footprint through strategic partnerships, process optimization, and talent acquisition. - Delivered large-scale projects including power, cooling, DCIM, and physical control systems with a focus on performance and reliability. - Established KPIs and governance processes to improve operational visibility and client satisfaction.

Co-founded and scaled operations across Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar, driving strategic planning, budgeting, and KPI monitoring. Developed products including data center cooling units, rack air distribution systems, raised floors, and physical control systems. Increased market share through operational excellence, strategic business development, and talent acquisition. Engaged in succession planning, hiring SMEs and future leaders to strengthen organizational capability.

- Directed the IT project management office (PMO), overseeing portfolio governance, execution, and risk control. - Introduced standardized project methodologies (PRINCE2, PMI) for consistent delivery across the enterprise. - Served as a member of the IT Strategic Planning team, aligning digital initiatives with business objectives. - Implemented performance metrics and project dashboards to enhance transparency and accountability.

- Identified market trends in data center and infrastructure solutions, developing strategies to meet client and market demands. - Directed business expansion initiatives across GCC markets, contributing to year-over-year revenue growth. - Collaborated with technical teams to design client-centric solutions tailored to performance and scalability requirements.

- Designed and implemented data center environments covering power systems, UPS, cooling, cabling, and physical security. - Developed monitoring frameworks to ensure uptime and business continuity. - Delivered infrastructure modernization projects that improved efficiency and compliance with international standards.

Managed internal and external projects and led a 120-person team, providing business-oriented IT solutions and supporting executive decision-making. Oversaw project financial performance, delivering ROI reports to senior management. Progressed from Network Engineer → Sr. Network Engineer → Project Manager → Deputy Department Manager, demonstrating consistent leadership growth and technical expertise.

- Led internal and external IT initiatives supporting core banking operations and digital services. - Managed a 120-member team, ensuring projects met business, technical, and regulatory requirements. - Presented insights to executive committees on infrastructure performance, process improvement, and investment optimization. - Oversaw the design and rollout of high-availability networks, business continuity solutions, and disaster recovery plans.

- Managed enterprise network infrastructure and implemented expansion plans in alignment with business growth. - Supported critical systems integration projects, ensuring security, stability, and compliance with international standards.