Hazem M. Alharbi
Digitalization & Cybersecurity
Summary
Digital Transformation head with over 20 years of successful experience in IT, Cyber Security and Digital Transformation. Recognized consistently for performance excellence and contributions to success in Government and Energy industry. Strengths in Leadership, digital transformation and Cyber security backed by training in many leaderships training and IT certifications. Innovative and goal-oriented Management professional committed to IT, Cyber Security and Digital transformation. Dedicated team player skilled at mediation and conflict resolution. Drives company growth through clear and achievable digital transformation program.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
6
6
Certifications
2
2
Languages
Work History
Digitalization & Technology Manager
Saudi Aramco
08.2023 - Current
- Leading the establishment of the digital transformation program including the affiliates digital transformation benchmarking activities that resulted in identifying around $132 MM potential value with more than 190 recommendations
- Leading the first establishment of the technology management program within downstream BL including the identification of 60 Global Manufacturing applicable technologies with around $400 MM protentional value
- Leading the development of high major applications attended business needs and improving business performance and value creation which resulted in around $10 MM cost saving
- These applications such as Asset Oversight System (AOS), Real time Economic Performance System (REPS), Emergency Shutdown Devices (ESD) bypass system and Decision Support Visualization 360 system
- Leading the outstanding support to GM executive management in developing executive daily major activities reports and working in digitalizing the daily Shift Manager report for GM wholly owned assets
- Leading the development of the first digital transformation technology value realization framework companywide which was endorsed by Engineering Services
- This is usually developed by consultant company
- Extended the GME services and support to other GM admin areas (PD&T and power system) in the digital transformation program such as ESD bypass system and Asset Performance Management (APM) assessment
- Taking care of leadership and professional development of the Digitalization &Technology Division employees to improve their productivity and career development
- Leading the outstanding support to Yanbu Refinery Department during the world economic forum (WEF) light house award site visit and assessment which resulted in first downstream asset joined WEF lighthouse network
- Leading the support to include the digital transformation program as part of the downstream transformation program as requested by downstream president to achieve $200 MM from digital workstream
- Leading the restructuring of the Global Manufacturing Excellence digitalization & technology division with OCD to justify the creation of the division with the proposed groups under the division
- Leading the hiring for the required candidates (EXPAT and young engineer (PDP)) and conducted the interview for the digital solution architect, AI specialist, Technology consultant, IT app developer, IT infrastructure and cyber security specialist
- Providing the required consultation, guidance and support to Aramco Digital Company (Plant
- Digital) executive management for conducting IMOMS assessment and deploying the digital solutions in the global manufacturing assets
- Recruited and trained IT team members.
- Ensured smooth integration of new acquisitions into existing technology infrastructure with minimal disruption to daily operations.
- Managed implementation of new technological improvements resulting in increased efficiency.
- Reduced IT support tickets by proactively addressing common issues and providing user training.
- Managed technology projects from conception to completion, ensuring timely delivery and stakeholder satisfaction.
- Created customized technology solutions tailored to the unique needs of various departments within the organization.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify technology needs and develop innovative solutions.
- Evaluated emerging technologies for potential adoption in the organization, making strategic recommendations.
- Maintained secure computing environment through implementation of robust cybersecurity measures and employee education programs.
- Optimized IT infrastructure by consolidating systems and leveraging cloud-based resources where appropriate.
- Increased end-user satisfaction by establishing responsive help desk support services for hardware and software issues.
- Negotiated vendor contracts for hardware, software, and services to reduce costs without sacrificing quality or functionality.
- Developed high-performing teams through effective hiring, training, and performance management.
- Led cross-functional teams to successfully execute strategic initiatives, improving organizational performance.
- Established strong relationships with key stakeholders to ensure alignment of objectives and seamless execution of projects.
- Consistently met or exceeded project deadlines through diligent planning and effective time management skills.
- Enabled a culture of continuous improvement by fostering an environment where employees felt empowered to suggest and implement innovative solutions.
- Created detailed project plans, including timelines, milestones, resource requirements, and risk assessments, ensuring timely delivery of results.
- Provided regular updates to senior leadership on the status of transformational initiatives, enabling informed decision-making at all levels.
- Introduced data-driven decision-making processes throughout the organization, leading to more accurate forecasting and increased accountability.
- Implemented agile project management methodologies for faster decision-making and improved team collaboration.
- Evaluated potential vendors and partners for their ability to contribute positively to the organization''s transformation goals.
- Developed innovative solutions with a focus on digital transformation, driving business growth and efficiency.
- Coordinated with other departments to ensure successful integration of new technologies into existing workflows.
- Managed change effectively by developing comprehensive communication strategies and providing support to impacted individuals.
- Maintained positive customer relations by addressing problems head-on and implementing successful corrective actions.
- Successfully managed budgets and allocated resources to maximize productivity and profitability.
- Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
- Established performance goals for employees and provided feedback on methods for reaching those milestones.
Global Manufacturing Digital Transformation head (IMOMS support unit head)
Saudi Aramco
10.2020 - 08.2023
- Leading GM digital transformation program which resulted in different accomplishments such as:
- Achieving proactively the approval of allocating the fund of two value creation projects by DTO Process Digital Twin for RTR and Real time optimization for YRD
- This is saving around 11.4 MM$ for the GM admin area with estimated benefits around 28 MM$ annually
- Improving the score of the digital Transformation maturity assessment across wholly-owned facilities by 0.6 for GM AA to be 4.8 out of 5
- Leading deployment and tracking of Digital Transformation Roadmap were 10 business cases endorsed under DTMA, BI-51 & BI-19
- Leading the IMOMS deployment and support in the GM which resulted in different accomplishments such as:
- Riyadh Refinery Department IMOMS project completion
- Jizan Refinery Complex IMOMS system go live such as Asset Performance Management system
- Ras Tanura Refinery IMOMS project execution with very challenging timeline
- Several awareness and training were conducted for GM employees about IMOMS and DT technologies
- Different assessment for IMOMS deployment in domestic and international JVs
- Unified infrastructure to reduce the Total Cost of Ownership of IMOMS servers
- Establishing the Charge back model for IMOMS Software Maintenance annual fees across facilities
- Manage IMOMS and Process automation software license and contract centralization
- Leading the process automation and cyber security for the admin area level that resulted in several accomplishments such as:
- Archiving the one of the first admin areas for completed the targeted cyber security maturity with a score of 100%
- Value creation and cost avoidance for RTR, YRD and JzRc for Real- Time Optimization (RTO) and Advanced Process Control (APC)
- Establishing new GM Process Automation Roadmap 2022-2024 for the Global Manufacturing AA departments
- This roadmap consists of 25 initiatives executed over three consecutive years and guidance for departments to establish their individual roadmaps
- The roadmap will uplift the cumulative financial benefit from around $43 MM to $119MM through the deployment of the Advanced Process Control Solutions
- Increase reliability through the Lifecycle Management programs
- Enhance Compliance through assessments and risk mitigations
- Improve know-how through Human Capital development programs for the Process Automations workforce
- Developing new GM cybersecurity roadmap for implementing cybersecurity programs, technologies and procedures
- Leading the submittal of the GM digital transformation and technology awards for the new 'Downstream Technology & Digital Excellence Award'
- Leading the digital transformation program in GM which resulted in developing new DT roadmap that endorsed by all GM department head and GM VP
- Covering MTSD during the year in different assignment
- Leading the first ever imoms integrations with corporate Aramco systems such as SAP system
- Leading with my team the first ever imoms eLearning course
- Managing the overall GM technical support for the implemented digital transformation technologies
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Collaborated closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless project delivery within established timelines and budget constraints.
- Played a key role in successful change management initiatives by effectively communicating benefits of new procedures to staff members while addressing any concerns raised during implementation stages.
- Reduced employee turnover rate through effective leadership, communication, and team-building initiatives.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction rates by addressing inquiries and resolving issues in a timely manner.
- Successfully resolved conflicts among team members through active listening, mediation techniques and promoting open dialogue between involved parties.
- Developed a positive work culture with a strong emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
- Proactively identified areas of improvement within the unit, implementing corrective actions to prevent future issues from arising.
- Recognized as an effective leader who consistently met or exceeded departmental goals and objectives through strategic planning and execution.
Automation & Control System Unit Head
Saudi Aramco
08.2018 - 10.2020
- Leading digital transformation program in YR which was resulted on achieved the advance stage worldwide in World Economic Forum Lighthouse program
- Leadership assignment as Engineering Division Head for one month with excellent feedback from Yanbu Refinery management
- Led the DT strategy on improving the maturity level of YR digital transformation program by the following accomplishments:
- Getting first drone and certified first drone pilot
- Brining SMART helmet technology to be utilize for expert remote support
- Leading YRD IMOM implementation
- Leading the upgrade of the DCS system to the latest stat of the art Orion console as one of the first department companywide
- Leadership assignment as Maintenance Division Head for three months with excellent feedback by YCSSD Manager (see attached email) and excellent achievements such as:
- Established new innovation team that targets talented employees who are specialized in technical fields
- Establishing new YRLMD Inspection Work Sheet (IWS) Dashboard to improve and ensure the sustainable progress toward the implementation of YRD Inspection Work Sheet (IWS) recommendations
- Reduced the number of one leg Equipment Out of Service to the minimum with a clear plan and ETC
- Being on top of the preparation for YRD DHT Shutdown (November 1st, 2020) with supporting the team to overcome all the challenges and meet the schedule
- Led the implementation of YR CCTV project which was completed safely and timely as the first department in the admin area and it was highly recognized by Sr
- VP
- Adopted clear strategy and plan for Process automation systems that resulted on achieved the best automation KPIs among the admin area such as Alarm and cyber security KPIs
- Achieving the best score companywide in the assigned OE 9.2 process for data protection program
- Represent our admin area in the corporate innovation program
- Led the achievement of obtained the first international cyber security award in YR in the field of operational technology (OT) cyber security
- Assigned as IMOM support unit supervisor by the DR&NGLF VP to lead the implementation of the IMOM projects and leading the Digital transformation program in the admin area
OT Cybersecurity Engineer (PAN Admin II)
Saudi Aramco
02.2016 - 08.2018
- Improve Yanbu Refinery Plant Network and System Security Compliance from 80% to 98% in the first year
- Propose and implement new technologies that help on improving process automation network cyber security, availability and reliability
- Obtained 3 international certifications Microsoft MCSA 2012, Juniper JNCIA, and Global Industrial Cyber Security Professional (GICSP)
- Ensure Plant Network and system in full compliance with SAEP-99 and all hardening procedure implemented one all compatible process control systems
- Lead and implement new plant network security monitoring solutions (ArcSight and Splunk)
- Implement new automated Plant network and system security compliance assessment (Tripwire)
- Propose and implement new centralized storage and backup solution to save all critical process control system files and backup on NetApp Network Attached Storage (NAS)
- Upgrade plant network domain controller from windows server 2008 to 2012
- Implement new centralized security patches by utilizing Microsoft Windows System Update Service (WSUS)
- Migrate and relocate Process Automation Network, Firewalls, servers and DMZ systems to enhance process control system availability, reliability and security in house by utilizing local resources which resulted on cost avoidance around 138,000 $
- Leading the Integrated Manufacturing Operation Management (IMOM) project preparation and implementation
- Covering Automation & Control System Unit supervisor
- Supporting Plant Information (PI) system and end user for OSI Soft PI Datalink & Process book
- Evaluate and endorse any new plant network technologies
- Evaluate and implement any new Process Automation Network and system hardening, best practices and policies
- Implement new secure online USB initiative to transfer files securely within plant network or to Aramco corporate network
- Evaluate and modify plant network firewall rules and policies to ensure all zones protected and secure
- Manage and maintain centralized MacAfee antivirus solution
- Troubleshooting and resolving any reporting process automation network issues
- Championed a culture of continuous improvement within the cybersecurity team, fostering innovation and collaboration among members.
- Implemented data loss prevention strategies, safeguarding valuable company information from unauthorized access.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations by developing and enforcing comprehensive security policies and procedures.
- Coordinated with external partners such as law enforcement agencies during major cyber incidents for swift resolution and mitigation efforts.
- Facilitated smooth transitions between legacy systems and new technology platforms while maintaining strong security measures.
- Influenced executive decision-making through concise presentations on cybersecurity risks, trends, and best practices.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge on current threat landscape trends by attending conferences, webinars, and engaging in professional networking opportunities.
- Evaluated emerging technologies for potential application in strengthening overall security posture.
- Oversaw vendor relationships, including negotiating contracts, monitoring performance, and ensuring adherence to established security standards.
- Managed a diverse team of cybersecurity professionals to achieve organizational goals effectively.
- Managed life cycle replacement of hardware and software.
- Analyzed network security and current infrastructure, assessing areas in need of improvement.
- Led technical upgrade projects for clients by working and coordinating with consultants and developers for integrations.
- Implemented and maintained technology and software budget.
OT Cybersecurity Engineer (PAN Admin II)
Saudi Aramco
03.2014 - 01.2016
- Develop and implement SA Data Protection Program
- Manage and Maintain Process Automation Network such as Cisco network Routers and switches
- Administrating Microsoft Windows servers and desktop
- Maintain and troubleshoot any plant network and system security issues
- Assume the duties of managing plant network infrastructure services such as Domain Controllers, GPO and DNS
- Manage and maintain Plant Information (PI) System inside the plant network including OPC
- Developing and maintaining Riyadh Refinery Department Web applications
- Develop new innovated ESD Bypass system to monitor and track ESD bypass activities
- Manage and maintain Juniper Firewall and security policies
- Monitoring and optimizing all backups, virus protection and network monitoring
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop comprehensive cybersecurity policies and procedures.
- Ensured regulatory compliance by conducting thorough audits of information systems and security controls.
- Strengthened business continuity by creating disaster recovery plans in the event of a cyber attack or breach.
- Reduced cyber threats by implementing robust security frameworks and incident response plans.
- Managed third-party vendor relationships to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality cybersecurity products and services.
- Advised executive leadership on industry trends, helping them make informed decisions regarding cybersecurity investments.
- Recommend improvements in security systems and procedures.
- Conducted security audits to identify vulnerabilities.
Senior Systems Engineer
Royal Saudi Air Force
06.2012 - 02.2014
- System Team Leader
- Managing RSAF domains in HQ site and seven remote sites
- Managing Network Infrastructure Services
- Managing Email systems (Exchange 2007, and Exchange 2010) in HQ site and seven remote sites
- Build policy and standard for RSAF systems
- Manage Microsoft enterprise agreement with RSAF
- Build a plan for Applying ITIL and MOF in RSAF
- Review all design documents for any project related to system team
- Build RFP for RSAF cloud computing and work with a team to build RFP for RSAF disaster recovery datacenter
Senior Systems Engineer
Royal Saudi Air Force
02.2010 - 06.2012
- Design and Deploy AD 2008, RODC, DNS, and DHCP
- Design and Deploy AD 2008 core edition for seven sites
- Design and Deploy Exchange 2010
- Design and Deploy TMG 2010
- Design and Deploy Lync server 2010
- Managing RSAF domain controllers and network services (AD, DNS,GPO)
- Managing PKI servers and certificate
- Managing Exchange server for internal network and external network (internet)
- Ensure Email systems and all roles (HUB, CAS, Mailbox, UM) always available
- Managing all the RSAF Headquarter servers in an Active Directory environment, ensuring that each server has 100% uptime
- Managing File and Printer servers
- Managing ISA 2006
- Managing Lync server 2010 in external network
- Monitoring and optimizing systems performance
- Troubleshooting and system recovery
- Microsoft Clustering servers (windows 2003/2008) administration
- Resolving network services issues related to (DNS, DHCP, GPOs and Network browsing)
- Administering Microsoft network infrastructure (DNS, DHCP, and Remote Access)
Network Engineer
King Abdullah Air Base
06.2006 - 01.2010
- Managing active directory (AD 2003) objects (Users, Computers, Printers)
- Resolving network service issues related to (DNS, DHCP, GPOs and Network browsing)
- Administering Microsoft network infrastructure ( DNS, DHCP, and Remote Access )
- Administering Microsoft exchange server 2007 for King Abdullah Air Base
- Managing Cisco network switch, core switch, and Router
- Managing Symantec Endpoint protection (SEP v11.0) and manage the entire SEP client
- Managing Network printer and printer server
- Train the technical support staff about how to solve the client issues
- Opening and following up maintenance tickets in case of failures
- Network configuration (Internal and External connections, Joining Domains, Access Internet)
- Perform and maintain systems backup and recovery procedures
Computer Engineer
King Abdullah Air Base
03.2004 - 06.2006
- Managing Operation and Maintenance domain controller (AD 2003, DNS, DHCP)
- Technical support for users and computers in King Abdullah Air Base
- Perform and maintain systems backup and recovery procedures
- Users' administration (setup and maintaining accounts)
- Installing MS application products
- Managing local storage
- Analyze and resolve problems associated with servers' hardware
Education
Bachelor of Science - Computer Engineering
King Abdulaziz University
Saudi Arabia 12-2003
Skills
Team leadership
Decision-making
Strategic planning
Digital transformation
Cybersecurity for IT and OT Systems
Technical Support Services
Innovation Strategy Development
Teamwork and collaboration
Problem-solving abilities
Adaptability and flexibility
Collaborative Team Development
Project management
Employee coaching and mentoring
Certification
Leading organization digital transformation from Harvard university
Timeline
Digitalization & Technology Manager
Saudi Aramco
08.2023 - Current
Global Manufacturing Digital Transformation head (IMOMS support unit head)
Saudi Aramco
10.2020 - 08.2023
Automation & Control System Unit Head
Saudi Aramco
08.2018 - 10.2020
OT Cybersecurity Engineer (PAN Admin II)
Saudi Aramco
02.2016 - 08.2018
OT Cybersecurity Engineer (PAN Admin II)
Saudi Aramco
03.2014 - 01.2016
Senior Systems Engineer
Royal Saudi Air Force
06.2012 - 02.2014
Senior Systems Engineer
Royal Saudi Air Force
02.2010 - 06.2012
Network Engineer
King Abdullah Air Base
06.2006 - 01.2010
Computer Engineer
King Abdullah Air Base
03.2004 - 06.2006
Leading organization digital transformation from Harvard university
GIAC Global Industrial Cyber Security Professional (GICSP)
Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP)
Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Windows server 2012
Cisco Certified Network Associate Routing & Switching (CCNA)
Juniper Networks Certified Associate - Junos (JNCIA-Junos)
Bachelor of Science - Computer Engineering
King Abdulaziz University
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