Allan Thomson

Accomplished and analytical leader harnessing 15+ years of experience in the technical sector to steer end-to-end project lifecycles, delivering successful outcomes through strategic leadership and meticulous attention to detail. Demonstrated track record of driving business growth and enhancing customer satisfaction by leveraging expertise in implementing innovative solutions and optimizing system efficiency. Proven success in heading multi-million-dollar projects with proficiency in Agile methodologies for timely delivery and alignment with client needs.

Skilled in team leadership, fostering collaboration and maximizing individual potential. Recognized for orchestrating the integration of critical data sources, automating testing processes, creating requirements from high level requests, and streamlining project management practices. Natural communicator, talented at cultivating relationships with key personnel.

Project Manager – Research and Development - Blackline Safety - Calgary, AB

(2024-05 - 2026-04)

I managed New Product Introduction (NPI) initiatives, concentrating mainly on firmware and software. I was responsible for coordinating the assembly of Printed Circuit Boards Assemblies as well as finished units. This included new products (G8, EXO 8, Gamma radiation detection, and Gas Expansion Module) while maintaining/updating existing products (G6 & G7 wearable monitors, and EXO 7 area monitor).

Coordinated development teams in Calgary, Waterloo and Chicago. Oversaw automated reporting introduction to provide daily updates to upper management.

• Integrated Microsoft Power BI and Jira, to provide daily, real-time updates to upper management.
• Created a "battle rhythm" for sprints, greatly improving predictability.
• Created Time in Status analysis, significantly improving estimate accuracy.
• Initiated project to replace Microsoft Project by evaluating tools that have better integrate with Jira, with the aim of reducing duplication of work and more accurate reporting.

Project Manager – Software - H2Safety Services Inc. - Calgary, AB - Remote

(2022-01 - 2023-12)

Spearheaded all aspects of the software development project lifecycle, from conception to delivery projects, ensuring successful outcomes. Evaluated and implemented an updated ESRI server to enhance customer satisfaction. Led a team of five developers, expanding from a single developer. Oversaw KPI metrics for performance reporting to upper management. Identified bottlenecks and implemented solutions. Delivered high-quality software products to meet client expectations and drive business growth.

• Orchestrated integration of Blackline Safety and GeoTab data into our software for improved client emergency awareness.
• Automated regression tests using Selenium/Python and assisted in obtaining SOC 2 certification.
• Completed Atlantic Ice Management development, producing over $100,000 CDN in sales.
• Implemented Atlantic Ice and Vessel tracking, expanding client base.
• Eliminated years of technical debt, optimizing system efficiency.
• Added the ability to warn clients of wildfires threatening their facilities.
• Reintroduced Agile processes and Azure DevOps, promoting efficient project management and team collaboration.
• Introduced the ability to track a product spill into a water body, enhancing the functionality of our software.

Software Development Manager (Contract) - Morgan Stanley at Work - Calgary, AB

(2020-01 - 2020-04)

Led a critical, time-sensitive development project, collaborating closely with the Product Manager to ensure alignment with client needs and predictable delivery schedules. Leveraged Agile methodologies, adapting to complex requirements while maintaining best practices. Supervised team's transition to remote work. Facilitated communication, managed resources, and implemented cost-tracking measures.

• Secured a sale to Stripe by completing a high-priority development project on time.
• Mastered nuances of a complicated requirement and environment for timely delivery.
• Introduced and maintained Agile best practices to streamline development processes.

Project Manager - General Dynamics Mission Systems - Calgary, AB

(2007-05 - 2019-08)

Managed multiple multi-year, multi-million-dollar projects simultaneously, ensuring seamless coordination of priorities, dependencies, and deliverables. Collaborated with project accountants to implement earned value information systems. Provided critical insights to program managers proactively. Leveraged expertise to evaluate and integrate MS Project Server, centralizing project data and dependencies for enhanced management visibility.

• Rescued and delivered critical obsolescence projects through innovative approaches and stakeholder collaboration.
• Led software development teams proficient in C++, C#, JavaScript, and ASP.NET.
• Implemented actuals tracking within MS Project, reducing monthly reporting time by 48 hours.
• Served as a liaison between engineering teams and upper management, ensuring timely project delivery and optimal solutions.

Implementation Manager/Software Development Manager - Schlumberger Information Solutions

Project Management Professional - Project Management Institute

Data Landscape of GenAI for Project Managers - Project Management Institute

Generative AI Overview for Project Managers - Project Management Institute

Project Management Professional Certification - Mount Royal College

Computer Technology - Southern Alberta Institute of Technology