Luiz Claudio Cruz
Houston,Texas
Summary
Strategic Sr. Project Controls Manager with extensive 25-year background in EPCM and turnaround projects spanning oil & gas, petrochemical, energy, and manufacturing fields.
Experienced professional in project controls, proficient in master scheduling, cost management, earned value management, forecasting, risk analysis, and financial planning.
Adept in Primavera P6, Power BI, Ecosys, and Excel automation, managing diverse teams, streamlining operations, and consistently delivering projects on schedule and under budget.
Overview
41
41
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Consultant
Freelance Consultant
11.2023 - Current
- Mentor senior clients on highly confidential programs and projects.
- Develop several freelance pieces of work. Participated in estimates, analyses and forecasts of large O&G/energy/construction projects.
- Details at http://www.luizcruz.com
Senior Project Controls Manager
Faithful+Gould
11.2022 - 10.2023
- Led national and international program and project controls within a global PMO, covering estimating, master scheduling, cost management, forecasting, and reporting.
- Estimated integrated cost and schedule across all EPCM phases; produced monthly forecasts, variance analyses, and cash flow projections.
- Worked with client scheduling teams to develop, manage, revise, and recover integrated Primavera P6 project schedules, identifying long-lead items and resource constraints.
- Participated in the development and improvement of project controls systems, tools, and methods, receiving client recognition for enhanced controls effectiveness.
- Ref: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Ref%20F&G%20Luis%20Pinto.pdf
Project Controls Consultant
Texas International Terminals (TTI)
03.2022 - 05.2022
- Implemented standardized project controls procedures to improve governance and reporting consistency.
- Developed and maintained integrated Primavera P6 master schedules for multiple projects.
- Designed and automated cost and progress reporting tools using Excel and VB macros.
- Provided project performance analysis and controls support to project and management teams.
- Ref: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Prof%20Ref%20-%20Matt%20Toland.pdf
Senior TA Cost Analyst
Belcan Global Engineering
03.2020 - 10.2021
- Delivered advanced cost estimates, detailed cost analyses, budgets, and historical performance benchmarking for refinery turnaround (TA) and capital projects.
- Developed and implemented new methods and criteria for advanced cost management and performance analysis.
- Designed and deployed a highly automated estimating system using Excel and VBA, significantly improving estimating accuracy and efficiency.
- Produced executive dashboards, Board of Directors (BOD) reports, analyses, charts, and presentations supporting management decision-making.
- Ref1: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Luiz%20you%20are%20the%20man.mp3
- Ref2: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Ref%20COVESTRO%20-%20Ord%20Limbrick.pdf
Lead Scheduler
Innovative Turnaround Controls
04.2019 - 10.2019
- Led scheduling for major capital expansion and turnaround (TA) projects, supporting large-scale refinery programs.
- Developed, optimized, and maintained integrated Primavera P6 project schedules, including progress tracking and performance reporting.
- Performed the Overall 2021 ADN Program cost estimate and cost control, integrating schedule and cost data to support management decisions.
- Supported program and project controls activities, including schedule analysis, forecasting, and executive reporting.
- Ref: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/RefOrd%20Better.JPG
Master Scheduler (Consultant)
Innovative Management Solutions
12.2018 - 03.2019
- Developed the integrated Primavera P6 master schedule for a steel manufacturing program.
- Established WBS and coding structures to support effective planning and controls.
- Performed resource loading, leveling, and schedule baselining.
- Produced schedule analyses, look-ahead plans, and management reports.
- Ref: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/RefOrd%20Better.JPG
Master Scheduler
Mako Oilfield Services
09.2018 - 10.2018
- Developed master schedules for complex deep-sea drillship projects.
- Built integrated Primavera P6 schedules covering hull, mechanical, and systems installation scopes.
- Developed project schedules for an oil & gas regional EPC project, including plant upgrades and a small pipeline scope.
- Supported proposal development through schedule logic, sequencing, and risk considerations.
- Ref: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Ref%20Mako%20Oil%20Reg%20Powell.pdf
Project Controls Manager
Project and Turnaround Consultants
07.2017 - 02.2018
- Managed and coached project controls teams supporting client programs and projects.
- Assessed project management and controls issues and developed tailored client solutions.
- Designed and delivered executive-level reports, dashboards, and performance analyses.
- Supported client decision-making through clear, data-driven project controls insights.
- Ref: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Ref%20Ord%20Limbrick%20-%20PTC.jpg
Lead Cost Controls Specialist
CDI Corporation
06.2016 - 06.2017
- Led cost controls for a $100MM refinery turnaround (TAR) and supported 9-year, $1.2B program estimate studies.
- Managed estimating, budgeting, forecasting, and EAC processes across multiple projects.
- Developed a FULLY automated Project Controls Report (PCR) system using Excel and VB macros, significantly improving reporting efficiency and accuracy.
- Supported risk and change mgt, including scope, schedule, and cost control.
- Ref: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Ref%20Ord%20Limbrick.jpg
Senior Schedule Consultant
Systech International
01.2015 - 01.2016
- Provided schedule and project controls consulting for EPC and EPCM capital projects in Brazil (large deep-sea platform Petrobras Netherlands P-55 Lower Hull Project, US$385MM) and Canada (Ledcor, US$132MM).
- Developed, reviewed, and managed integrated Primavera P6 schedules.
- Performed schedule audits, forensic analysis, and delay evaluations; implemented a Recovery Action Plan for the Puma project (construction of large boilers for a Bio-Chemical Plant, CBC) to restore project performance.
- Supported cost control, risk management, and project performance assessments.
- Ref: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Ref%20Systech%20-%20Nigel%20Oliver.jpg
Senior Project Controller
Progressive GE (Exterran)
08.2014 - 10.2014
- Managed cost controls for $75MM international EPC capital projects.
- Directed cost analysis, forecasting, trending, and variance reporting activities.
- Supported risk and change management across multi-discipline project teams.
- Prepared and delivered executive-level cost and performance reports.
- Ref: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Ref%20Exterran%20-%20David%20Lemons.JPG
Project Controls Consultant (Master Scheduler)
Ref-Chem, L.P.
07.2014 - 08.2014
- Provided Primavera P6 master scheduling support for a critical international project.
- Developed resource-loaded, leveled, and baselined master schedules.
- Established WBS structures and schedule coding standards.
- Delivered schedule analyses and planning support to project stakeholders.
- Ref: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Ref%20Ref-Chem%20-%20Dave%20Bacle.JPG
Senior Project Controls Manager
Faithful+Gould
06.2012 - 01.2014
- Led oil and gas program and project controls within a global PMO, establishing standards, procedures, and governance frameworks.
- Developed and implemented project controls tools, automation, and best practices to improve cost, schedule, and performance visibility; designed an integrated turnaround (TA) cost estimating system.
- Managed overall Program Controls functions (Cost Management, Master Scheduling, Risk Management, Progress Evaluation/EVM, Change Management) for all 2012–2013 local refinery projects (expense & capital, $30–75MM).
- Ref1: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Ref%20Ord%20Limbrick.jpg
- Ref2: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Ref%20Jarlath.JPG
- Ref3: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Ref%20F&G%20Leif%20Hance.jpg
- Ref4: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Ref%20F&G%20Cris%20Khan.jpg
Senior Project Controls Manager
Mustang Engineering
12.2011 - 05.2012
- Managed project controls for multiple $125MM+ oilfield capital programs at Occidental Petroleum.
- Led Primavera P6 scheduling, cost control, forecasting, and performance reporting across programs.
- Supervised and mentored project controls staff, ensuring standardized controls and accurate reporting.
- Ref: Rob Brodt (Prof. Serv. Acct. Mgr)- (832) 860-3313
PMO Master Program Scheduler
Global Consulting Group
08.2009 - 12.2011
- Led program-level planning and master scheduling for $275MM+ capital programs (125 projects), ensuring integration of scope, schedule, and cost data.
- Managed Earned Value Management (EVM), cost control, forecasting, and risk management activities across multiple programs.
- Developed PMO standards, schedules, and performance reports to support executive decision-making for clients including Capital One and KSI Engineering.
- Ref: http://www.luizcruz.com/Proj/Imagens/Ref/Ref%20Rick%20Harper.jpg
Senior Project Controls Engineer
Engineering Technical Group (ETG)
11.2007 - 08.2009
- Managed project controls for EPC/EPCM oil & gas and renewable energy projects up to $350M, ensuring schedule, cost, and scope compliance.
- Developed and maintained project schedules (Primavera P6/MS Project) and EVM reports, supporting forecasting and risk management.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize project execution and ensure adherence to corporate standards.
- Ref1:
Project Controls Engineer
Jacobs Engineering
05.2007 - 10.2007
- Managed cost engineering, forecasting, and reporting for multiple engineering projects, ensuring budget adherence.
- Developed and maintained project schedules using Primavera P6, including critical path analysis and resource planning.
- Provided accurate project performance metrics to support management decision-making and risk mitigation.
Project Controls Engineer
Alutiiq Inc.
09.2005 - 09.2006
- Managed DoD projects, including scheduling, budgeting, and Earned Value Management (EVM) to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery.
- Prepared RFP estimates and cost forecasts, supporting project planning and proposal development.
- Developed and maintained project schedules and performance reports to track progress, risks, and compliance with client requirements.
President / Senior Management Consultant
LC Consultoria & Midsol
08.1994 - 01.2003
- Provided business consulting and strategic planning for clients across multiple industries, driving operational efficiency and growth.
- Managed financial planning, budgeting, and performance analysis to support informed decision-making.
- Led cross-functional teams and client engagements, delivering actionable solutions and achieving business objectives.
Marketing Area Chief
Petrobras Internacional (Braspetro) / Petrobras Group
02.1992 - 06.1994
- Turned a US$89M deficit into a US$24M profit through strategic marketing and project selection.
- Developed global marketing strategies and evaluated investment projects to optimize portfolio performance.
Planning Director Assessor
Petrobras Internacional (Braspetro)
01.1990 - 02.1992
- Conducted strategic planning, econometric modeling, and project controls for international E&P projects.
- Supported capital allocation and risk analysis for major upstream investments.
Subsidiaries Budget Controller
Petrobras
04.1987 - 12.1989
- Controlled budgets totaling US$20B across corporate subsidiaries.
- Established financial monitoring and reporting systems to improve governance and efficiency.
Financial-Economic Planning Analyst
Petrobras Internacional (Braspetro)
05.1985 - 04.1987
- Performed strategic and financial planning for international exploration and production (E&P) projects.
- Supported multi-country investment planning and performance evaluation.
Education
MBA - MBA in Project Management
Colorado Technical University
United States01.2007
MBA - Executive MBA (EMBA)
Colorado Technical University
United States01.2007
Master of Science - Computer Science (Software Eng.)
Colorado Technical University
United States01.2006
MBA - MBA in Strategic Planning & Marketing
PUC-Rio
Brazil01.1996
Post Graduate - Applied Operational Research
Petrobras
Brazil01.1996
BS - Civil Engineering
PUC-Rio
Brazil01.1976
Skills
Scheduling and oversight
Expense oversight
Earned value analysis
Strategic planning
Portfolio oversight
Risk mitigation
Stakeholder engagement strategies
strategic formulation
Reporting metrics
Leadership skills
Business planning
Risk assessment
Team collaboration
Project implementation
Goal setting
Work Planning and Prioritization
Strategic growth management
Budget management
Project management
Performance tracking
Reports and documentation
Public speaking
Cost analysis
Trend analysis
Process optimization
Analysis & evaluation
Change management
Decision-making
Processes and procedures
Subject matter expert
Management coaching
Team leadership & development
Project analysis
Performance assessments
Analytical thinking
Forecasting and reporting
Quality assurance
Business analysis
Financial modeling
Market penetration
Project leadership
Problem-solving
Organizational development
Accomplishments
I have always liked to learn new things and meet new people with respect and true interest in what they do, who they meet in their daily shores, what reports and charts they build, and what factors they consider as important when analyzing their daily shores. So, I am a hard-working, goal-focused, positive, dependable, and creative professional with extensive hands-on experience in all fields of project controls, and with the energy required to deliver the results expected.
My academic background and solid professional experience allow me to be stimulated by challenges and difficult situations, sense opportunities and consider risks with care, and use advanced problem-solving skills to create reliable innovations for large EPCM capital and turnaround projects.
I gradually earned the reputation of being a nice leader, a reliable colleague and sometimes mentor, within cross-functional teams. I facilitate team efforts by developing automated solutions and effectively coordinating key activities to reach the goals.
Certification
- Business Management
- Project Management
- Construction Safety
- Software Systems Engineering
- Software Development
LANGUAGES
ENGLISH – Native
Portuguese – Native
Spanish – Proficient
AWARDS & HONORS
President's List – entire MBA in Project Management, President's List – entire Executive MBA (EMBA), President's List – entire MS in Computer Science
Website with full details and dozens of references
www.luizcruz.com
Timeline
Consultant
Freelance Consultant
11.2023 - Current
Senior Project Controls Manager
Faithful+Gould
11.2022 - 10.2023
Project Controls Consultant
Texas International Terminals (TTI)
03.2022 - 05.2022
Senior TA Cost Analyst
Belcan Global Engineering
03.2020 - 10.2021
Lead Scheduler
Innovative Turnaround Controls
04.2019 - 10.2019
Master Scheduler (Consultant)
Innovative Management Solutions
12.2018 - 03.2019
Master Scheduler
Mako Oilfield Services
09.2018 - 10.2018
Project Controls Manager
Project and Turnaround Consultants
07.2017 - 02.2018
Lead Cost Controls Specialist
CDI Corporation
06.2016 - 06.2017
Senior Schedule Consultant
Systech International
01.2015 - 01.2016
Senior Project Controller
Progressive GE (Exterran)
08.2014 - 10.2014
Project Controls Consultant (Master Scheduler)
Ref-Chem, L.P.
07.2014 - 08.2014
Senior Project Controls Manager
Faithful+Gould
06.2012 - 01.2014
Senior Project Controls Manager
Mustang Engineering
12.2011 - 05.2012
PMO Master Program Scheduler
Global Consulting Group
08.2009 - 12.2011
Senior Project Controls Engineer
Engineering Technical Group (ETG)
11.2007 - 08.2009
Project Controls Engineer
Jacobs Engineering
05.2007 - 10.2007
Project Controls Engineer
Alutiiq Inc.
09.2005 - 09.2006
President / Senior Management Consultant
LC Consultoria & Midsol
08.1994 - 01.2003
Marketing Area Chief
Petrobras Internacional (Braspetro) / Petrobras Group
02.1992 - 06.1994
Planning Director Assessor
Petrobras Internacional (Braspetro)
01.1990 - 02.1992
Subsidiaries Budget Controller
Petrobras
04.1987 - 12.1989
Financial-Economic Planning Analyst
Petrobras Internacional (Braspetro)
05.1985 - 04.1987
MBA - Executive MBA (EMBA)
Colorado Technical University
Master of Science - Computer Science (Software Eng.)
Colorado Technical University
Post Graduate - Applied Operational Research
Petrobras
BS - Civil Engineering
PUC-Rio
MBA - MBA in Project Management
Colorado Technical University
MBA - MBA in Strategic Planning & Marketing
PUC-Rio