CHRISTOPHER THOMSEN

Experience

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  State Farm ®

  Jan 2005 - Aug 2018

  IT Business Analyst

  Led cross-functional project teams to analyze business requirements, streamline processes, and ensure seamless integration of systems across multiple product areas. Conducted comprehensive document analysis, interviews, workshops, and workflow evaluations to identify and address business needs. Spearheaded development of UX wireframes, process flows, and requirements for new customer-facing sales platform, enhancing online product bundling and purchasing experience. Directed transition of Mortgage Loan Servicing platform, focusing on accounting systems to facilitate transactional data flow into general ledger. Served as Product Owner on SAFe Agile team, managing big data initiatives and maintaining clear communication with stakeholders through regular updates and strategic planning sessions.● Redesigned online shopping cart, improving insurance product bundling and purchasing.● Integrated new Mortgage Loan Servicing platform with general ledger for accurate reporting.● Authored and managed user stories, aligning with business goals and aiding program planning.● Led comprehensive testing efforts, ensuring successful outcomes across all test types.● Managed auto policy data transfer and accounting processes during Canadian portfolio divestiture, cutting operating costs. Show less

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  Modern Woodmen of America

  Sept 2018 - Oct 2021

  Sr. Administrative Solutions Analyst/Project Manager

  Led strategic modernization projects to enhance business processes, including comprehensive overhaul of Beneficiary system, resulting in streamlined platform with reduced manual processing. Managed cross-functional teams of developers and business analysts, ensuring projects were adequately staffed and objectives met. Directed development and launch of mobile application for field agents, significantly improving efficiency and customer service capabilities. Conducted thorough business partner requirement analysis using various methods to guarantee clear understanding between technical and business teams. Initiated projects by estimating costs and authoring project charters, laying groundwork for successful modernization efforts.● Led development of mobile app for field agents, enhancing remote data access and customer service.● Managed 8–10-member team to deliver mobile app that significantly improved efficiency.● Conducted thorough analysis and workshops to align business needs with IT capabilities.● Authored project charters and cost estimates for strategic initiatives, driving organizational modernization.● Overhauled Beneficiary recording system from legacy interface to modern Windows-based system, improving efficiency and new hire training. Show less

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  John Deere

  Sept 2021 - Jul 2024

  Product Manager

  Directed product strategy for global digital communication platforms. Managed vendor relationships and negotiated multi-million-dollar SaaS contracts to ensure cost-effective and efficient operations. Collaborated with the Engineering Manager to align the product roadmap with strategic goals, leveraging feedback from Executive Level Managers and End Users. Led agile ceremonies, maintained the product backlog, and focused on continuous improvement of key metrics for product success. Analyzed data to optimize call quality and user experience on platforms like Microsoft Teams and Cisco voice calling.● Migrated 500 Contact Center agents to CCaaS solution, streamlining communication and cutting overhead.● Reduced Microsoft license costs by 13%, exceeding 10% reduction goal.● Communicated product updates to 700 stakeholders globally, enhancing transparency and engagement.● Led efforts to decrease vulnerabilities in Microsoft environment by 80%, significantly enhancing system security.● Managed critical SaaS vendor relationships, ensuring seamless operation of communication tools for global teams. Show less

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  State Farm

  Nov 2024 - now

  Technolgy Analyst/Product Owner