AJ Zafar

Experience

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  Prostar002

  Nov 2018 - Dec 2020

  Microsoft Office Admin and Business Applications Developer

  As a Microsoft Office Admin and Business Applications Developer, I have been responsible for managing various Microsoft Office tasks and developing a wide range of tools using the Power Platform. I pride myself on delivering innovative solutions that streamline processes, mitigate risks and improve overall business efficiency.Some of my key achievements and solutions I developed in this role include:Automated Inventory Management: I successfully increased efficiency by developing an inventory management system that automated the ordering of parts, resulting in a more organized and responsive supply chain.Health & Safety Risk Assessment and Incident Logging System: I created a comprehensive health and safety risk assessment and incident logging tool that enabled better management of workplace safety and record-keeping. This system was integrated with insightful Power BI reports, allowing for easy monitoring and decision-making.Employee Rota Management System: I developed an employee rota management system to better track work schedules, log overtime, and improve overall workforce management. This solution has streamlined the allocation of resources and enhanced employee satisfaction.Customer-Focused Website and Appointment Scheduling: I designed and developed a user-friendly website that allowed customers to easily access information about the business and schedule appointments in advance. The site was then connected to the employee rota management system, ensuring the right skills were automatically assigned to upcoming appointments.Onboarding automation: I automated the onboarding process removing a lot of the manual office admin tasks required, including assigning the correct license, adding them to relevant security groups and emailing new colleagues links to mandatory e-learning and our internal policies and procedures. Show less

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  Metro Bank (UK)

  Jun 2019 - Aug 2023

  In this role, I designed and developed solutions that address various business challenges and streamline operations. Some of the 30+ solutions included bespoke workflow management systems, bridging the gap between the frontline and various operational teams while capturing key data, fostering transparency and improving reporting. This has enhanced cooperation and synergy among different departments, improving overall productivity.My duties stretched beyond system design and development. I established the Environment Strategy and Route to Live to streamline and safeguard the application lifecycle while reinforcing the stability and reliability of each application released, ensuring the highest level of performance.I established the Bank’s Citizen Developer Programme to democratise the development process. This empowered colleagues to build using the capabilities of the Platform. Through this program, I increased the bank’s internal development capacity and fostered a more innovative culture within the organisation.To ensure the secure and effective operation of the Citizen Developer Programme, I established effective governance practices. This governance model ensured that while the creativity of citizen developers was nurtured, their development activities remained secure, compliant, and aligned with the bank’s overall IT strategy.Taking this further, I established a fusion team development style. This approach brought together both professional and citizen developers to collaborate, harnessing the strengths of each group. Through this innovative fusion of skills and perspectives, we were able to accelerate application delivery, enhance the quality of applications, and drive innovation more effectively within the bank.By improving internal processes, I empower teams to focus on creating fans out of their customers, enhancing customer journeys, and contributing to a more delightful user experience. Show less

  • Power Platform Developer

    Jan 2021 - Aug 2023

  • CSR

    Jun 2019 - May 2021
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  Freelance

  Dec 2020 - now

  Power Platform Developer and Architect

  As a freelance Power Platform Developer and Architect, I spearhead the designing, development, and deployment of a variety of systems tailored to the unique requirements of my clients. My portfolio includes an extensive array of applications spanning multiple sectors, showcasing my versatility and ability to create bespoke solutions.One of my notable achievements includes architecting a Risk Management (RCSA) system, where I used my expertise in risk analysis and Microsoft Power Platform's capabilities to design an application that identifies, measures, and mitigates operational risks. This proactive tool has been instrumental in predicting potential threats, thus, ensuring the continuous flow of operations and preserving the stability of the organizations I work with.On the HR front, I designed and developed an intuitive and comprehensive Human Capital Management (HCM) system. This solution streamlined HR processes like talent acquisition, workforce management, and employee engagement, freeing up valuable time for HR teams to focus on strategic initiatives rather than repetitive tasks.I've also crafted tailored systems for other sectors, including inventory management and patient management systems. The inventory management solution provided real-time updates, improved order accuracy, and reduced stockouts and overstocks, creating a more efficient supply chain for businesses. In contrast, the patient management system made it easier for healthcare providers to keep track of their patient's records, improving the efficiency of healthcare delivery.At the heart of my work is the objective to save organizations time and mitigate operational risk. My solutions empower businesses to automate their processes, reduce manual errors, and manage their resources more effectively. This has not only boosted operational efficiency but also contributed to enhancing the overall performance of the organizations I have partnered with. Show less

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  Kerv Digital

  Aug 2023 - now

  Solution Architect

  At Kerv, I am the Solution Architect for the Defence sector, where I lead a development team to design and deliver innovative solutions addressing complex challenges and pain points within this highly sensitive domain. My work spans applications and automation, with a strong emphasis on secure integration and robust data models to meet the stringent security requirements of the sector.Key contributions include:Leadership and Team Development: Led a talented development team, fostering collaboration and driving the successful implementation of advanced designs.Environment Strategy and ALM Standards: Authored comprehensive standards for environment management and application lifecycle management, ensuring stability and streamlined operations.Federated Development Strategy: Played a pivotal role in advising and drafting the federated development strategy to foster collaboration and consistency across teams.Hotfix Management Approach: Developed a systematic approach to managing hotfixes across multiple environments, balancing agility with operational integrity.Proof of Concepts (PoCs): Spearheaded PoCs for advanced methodologies, empowering my team to implement cutting-edge solutions effectively.The solutions I have architected have significantly improved the lived experiences of service personnel, delivered substantial cost savings, and mitigated critical risks. My work not only addresses immediate operational needs but also lays a secure and scalable foundation for future innovation. Show less