Muhammad Faisal
Holly Springs,NC
Summary
Results-oriented Network Project Manager with extensive experience in managing global network projects, network infrastructure design, implementation, and optimization. Proven track record in delivering projects within timelines and budget. Skilled in stakeholder management, risk management, vendor relations, and resource allocation. Expertise in managing cross-functional teams, network upgrades, decommissioning, and hardware installations. Strong knowledge of networking protocols, WAN/LAN, and circuit upgrades, with a focus on ensuring seamless project execution and optimization.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
NETWORK PROJECT MANAGER
Cisco
11.2023 - Current
- Planned and executed the implementation of global network service projects, adhering to scope, timelines, and deliverables
- Managed cross-functional teams across geographies, guiding them through network hardware installations (Cisco routers, switches, VOIP phones) and decommissioning tasks
- Oversaw WAN/LAN network circuit upgrades and coordinated weekly with ISPs to track orders, ensuring minimal downtime
- Developed project plans for the acquisition of Cisco’s new sites, including installation of network hardware and security systems
- Handled project budgets, resource allocation, and risk mitigation, optimizing resources to deliver projects 10% under budget
- Ensured compliance with industry standards, performed quality reviews, and improved project delivery processes.
- Collaborated with other departments to help meet IT needs and properly integrate and secure systems.
- Conferred with executives to advise and plan for short-term and long-term IT system upgrade needs.
STORAGE PROJECT MANAGER
Cisco
08.2019 - 10.2023
- Led storage solution projects involving EMC and NetApp hardware installation and decommissioning
- Managed migration and decommissioning of legacy EMC frames, completing 95% of projects ahead of schedule
- Directed a team in planning storage upgrades and coordinated with vendors (EMC, NetApp) to ensure smooth execution
- Applied change management principles to minimize disruptions during storage migrations and upgrades
- Collaborated with SOC teams on daily break-fix operations, contributing to a 20% improvement in response times.
RTP5 DATA CENTRE EXIT PROJECT MANAGER
Cisco
08.2022 - 03.2023
- Managed the transition of all hardware and systems from RTP5 to RTP1 data centers, coordinating with cross-functional teams
- Presented weekly updates to Cisco management on project progress, risks, and mitigation strategies
- Successfully completed the project within 5 months, ensuring zero data loss and minimal downtime.
SAN ADMINISTRATOR
Cisco
11.2018 - 07.2019
- Provided technical support for storage environments across data centers in the US, UK, and India
- Administered NetApp and EMC storage, performed storage migrations, and ensured high availability through proactive monitoring
- Designed and implemented disaster recovery plans, reducing potential downtime by 30%.
Education
Bachelor of Computer Science -
University of Sindh, Pakistan
07.2005
Skills
- Project Planning and Execution (Agile, Waterfall, Scrum, PMP methodologies)
- Network Infrastructure (WAN/LAN, SD-WAN, BGP, MPLS, Routing, Switching, VPN, Firewalls, QoS)
- Vendor Management and Contract Negotiation (Cisco, NetApp, EMC, Brocade)
- Team Leadership and Collaboration (Cross-functional teams, remote teams, global teams)
- Stakeholder Management and Communication (Senior Management, ISPs, Vendors)
- IT Service Management (ITIL, SLA, Incident and Change Management)
- Risk Mitigation and Issue Resolution (Risk Analysis, Contingency Planning)
- Budgeting and Resource Allocation (Cost Control, Budget Optimization)
- Documentation and Reporting (Jira, MS Project, Confluence, Excel, PowerPoint)
Accomplishments
Certified Project Manager Professional from PMI
Timeline
NETWORK PROJECT MANAGER
Cisco
11.2023 - Current
RTP5 DATA CENTRE EXIT PROJECT MANAGER
Cisco
08.2022 - 03.2023
STORAGE PROJECT MANAGER
Cisco
08.2019 - 10.2023
SAN ADMINISTRATOR
Cisco
11.2018 - 07.2019
Bachelor of Computer Science -
University of Sindh, Pakistan
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