Sarah Mirza

Results-driven AI Program Manager with 13+ years of experience leading multi-disciplinary teams to deliver complex projects on time and within budget. Proven expertise in program and portfolio management, AI product development, workflow optimization, and stakeholder alignment, ensuring high business impact and operational efficiency. Adept at managing multiple business initiatives concurrently, implementing Agile frameworks, and leveraging generative AI and custom AI agent frameworks to enhance decision-making, automation, and scalable solutions.

AI Program Manager/Project Manager - GroUnow - Remote, CA

(2025-02)

As a Program Manager at Gronow, I help build multiple AI applications and AI agents, manage cross-functional teams, and deliver scalable solutions by:

• Leading multiple concurrent AI programs and initiatives, integrating advanced AI technologies to optimize workflows, decision-making, and operational efficiency.
• Spearheading development of AI-powered applications using open-source AI, enabling scalable solutions for coaching and client-facing platforms.
• Defining product vision, program KPIs, and success metrics, aligning AI strategy with business objectives, user experience, and ROI.
• Translating complex requirements into execution plans, including AI product roadmaps, feature prioritization, and Agile delivery frameworks.
• Managing cross-functional teams across engineering, software development, and UX/UI, ensuring alignment, on-time delivery, and high-quality outputs.
• Acting as a bridge between technical and business teams, translating concepts such as model performance, prompt engineering, and AI outputs into actionable insights.
• Overseeing integration of AI models and APIs (e.g., OpenAI, GPT-based systems), optimizing for scalability, accuracy, latency, and cost efficiency.
• Conducting gap analyses to identify inefficiencies, implementing tailored process improvement solutions, and enhancing operational processes.
• Working closely with the CEO and stakeholders to align projects with strategic objectives, maximize ROI, and ensure successful portfolio management.
• Introducing Scrum frameworks and Agile practices to foster cross-functional collaboration and elevate project delivery performance.
• Engaging with stakeholders at all levels to set clear project expectations and ensure deliverables meet client requirements within agreed terms.
• Utilizing tools such as ClickUp, Trello, Slack, and Asana to manage workflows, and Numerous.ai, Jasper AI, and ChatGPT to streamline processes, enhance team collaboration, and accelerate AI project execution.
• Prioritizing tasks and managing workloads effectively to double team output, accelerate project timelines, and optimize operational performance.
• Achieved 2x increase in team productivity by implementing workflow automation, task prioritization frameworks, and AI-assisted processes.
• Delivered 3x improvement in operational speed, reducing task turnaround times from 3 weeks to 1 week through Agile optimization, workflow redesign, and AI tool adoption.
• Realized 50% cost reduction by optimizing resource allocation, increasing team efficiency, and leveraging AI-driven automation.
• Enhanced operational efficiency and client satisfaction through AI tool adoption, workflow automation, and process standardization.

Professional Development - Family Care & Professional Development - Remote

(2020-01 - 2025-01)

• Completed Certified Scrum Master (CSM) and PMI-ACP certifications.
• Advanced skills in Agile delivery, business analysis, and AI-driven workflow tools.
• Built and tested AI-enabled project management systems using ClickUp AI, ChatGPT, and automation tools.
• Completed coursework and self-directed training in Agile, data analysis, and program delivery.
• Maintained active professional network and industry engagement.

Business Partner - Brand Cigars, Newtown LLC - Newtown, CT

(2014-09 - 2019-12)

• Led cross-functional teams in Agile ceremonies, risk assessments, and scope development, ensuring timely and efficient project execution that met all deadlines.
• Financial Alignment: Developed budgeting and KPI tracking initiatives that supported 10-20 deals per quarter and drove business growth.
• Enhanced organization-wide efficiency by 30% through process improvements by partnering with vendors & stakeholders.
• Delivered revenue-generating IT projects and vendor responses that aligned with business goals, resulting in increased profitability.
• Optimized executive communication, aligning outcomes with strategic objectives, which improved decision-making.

Project Manager/Business Analyst - IBM - Somers, NY

(2012-07 - 2014-06)

• Successfully managed projects for IBM's GBS Incentives & Sales Model Transformation team, driving alignment between client strategies and business objectives.
• Integrated Agile and Scrum methodologies for seamless project execution, enhancing team collaboration and project delivery timelines.
• Managed project plans, KPIs, and financials across international teams, ensuring projects stayed on track and within budget.
• Led/managed medium to large size IT projects, leveraging project management tools and methodologies to deliver results and achieve project objectives.
• Strengthened collaboration between cross-functional teams, which minimized risks and improved project outcomes.
• Delivered global analytics projects, boosting reporting efficiency by 30%.
• Utilized tools such as Hyperion, IBM Cognos, and Tableau to streamline project reporting, enhancing data accuracy and decision-making efficiency.

Media Relations Associate - University of New Haven - Newtown, CT

(2011-01 - 2012-06)

• Enhanced communication effectiveness by 15% through stakeholder alignment and strategic business communications.
• Boosted media coverage by 20% via consistent messaging, media outreach, and crafting press releases.
• Leveraged tools like Cision, Salesforce for CRM, and ReadMedia for story management to drive successful media relations and public affairs campaigns.

Budget Analyst - University of New Haven - New Haven, CT

(2011-03 - 2012-03)

• Successfully managed a $100K+ budget, optimizing resources to support council initiatives and improving financial forecasting accuracy by 15%.
• Collaborated cross-functionally to drive event planning, ensuring alignment with council objectives and delivering expert financial guidance to stakeholders.
• Mitigated risks and ensured optimal fund allocation to support organizational goals.
• Leveraged Excel, Google Sheets, and Adaptive Insights for financial planning, reporting, and strategic budget management.

MBA - Marketing - University of New Haven (2010 - 2012)

BA - English, Literature, and Applied Linguistics - University of Houston (2004 - 2008)