UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency

Leading the digital transformation of refugee assistance and internal support services, with a focus on AI, automation, and cybersecurity.

Led a team of 12 specialists to embed data-driven decision-making across protection, registration, and field operations.

Oversaw the digitization and optimization of 40+ workflows across HR, Admin, and refugee-facing services.

Designed and scaled AI-powered feedback platforms, incorporating transcription, categorization, and NLP-based insights.

Directed the automation of UNHCR’s legacy IVR helpline into a second-generation system, enabling over 600,000 refugees to schedule appointments, check case status, and access key services using basic phones no internet required.

Delivered $1.4M in cost savings through IVR system expansion and streamlined service workflows.

Led the strategic design and rollout of a Workflow Management System (WMS) that tracks refugee services from appointment to delivery. Worked closely with my DAG team to map business processes, remove bottlenecks, and reduce in-office service time by over 65%.

Created and implemented UNHCR Jordan’s first cybersecurity governance framework; six critical systems passed security audits with full compliance.

Co-led UNHCR’s technical input to Jordan’s National Census, ensuring accurate refugee representation and alignment with UN standards

Head of Data and Tech Group (DAG)

Data Analysis Group Lead

Drove Technology and information management strategies across diverse humanitarian contexts in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.  
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to enhance data collection and reporting processes, improving operational efficiency.  
Developed and implemented training programs for local staff, resulting in a 30% increase in data accuracy.
During my HQ deployments, I served in Sudan, Greece, Syria, Iraq, Uganda, Malawi, Tanzania, South Sudan, Lebanon, Jordan, and Chad driving data and information‑management strategy across diverse humanitarian contexts in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.

Information Management Officer

Statisticiantoolbox.org

Co-Founder

UNICEF

Established enterprise-wide data governance framework ensuring ethical AI use while maintaining GDPR compliance across all child protection data systems

Regional  Inter-agency Information Management

UNDP

I was responsible for and oversaw several tasks related to local government authorities through various approaches, including processing job requests into live jobs and deliverables. In the IT department, job responsibilities included managing applications, software development and deployment jobs, network, security, and infrastructure upgrades (both virtual and physical), as well as projects to support the first line of support for IT. Project meetings and delegating duties and other work are also part of this job. Projects are not limited to the IT department, but other departments also require extra support. This includes any department that has requested assistance from the IT Project Management team and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP).

Project Manager 

Salam Technology

I delivered cyber security training to the banking sector workforce to increase their knowledge of cyber security tools and techniques.
Cyber security training covered below topics
Detection and prevention of cyber-attacks; how to respond to a cyber-attack; information security; risk assessment; threat assessment; vulnerability scanning; securing your emails; securing your data; securing your computer; securing your phone; social media awareness; cyber-bullying awareness; data privacy; data ownership; data protection; data ownership; email security; securing your computer; securing your phone; securing your data; social media awareness; social media safety; cyber-bullying awareness; securing your emails; data privacy; threat assessment; threat assessment; vulnerability scanning;

Cyber Security Consultant

Caritas Schweiz

Architected and deployed predictive analytics systems that improved resource allocation accuracy by 42%, directly benefiting 50,000+ IDPs .As the Chief Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Officer at Caritas Schweiz, I was entrusted with the pivotal role of designing and implementing a comprehensive M&E framework aligned with the organization's corporate standards. My responsibilities spanned across various sectors, including Food, Livelihood, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), ensuring a holistic approach to monitoring and evaluation activities.

Chief Monitoring and Evaluation Officer

United Nations OCHA

Canadian International Development Agency 

In a challenging and rapidly evolving IT landscape, I stepped into the role ofChief of Data Management and  Digital Solutions Unit with a mission to modernize and transform our organization’s technological framework. My focus was on enabling advanced data management and analysis capabilities while ensuring scalability, security, and innovation. I led the seamless integration of cloud computing solutions, enhancing accessibility and operational efficiency, and spearheaded the development of cutting-edge software systems to automate and streamline data processes. Recognizing the critical importance of cybersecurity, I implemented robust protocols to safeguard sensitive information and ensure compliance with industry standards. Additionally, I managed server infrastructure to maintain high availability and performance, minimizing downtime and optimizing resources.

Beyond technical execution, I prioritized building a collaborative and innovative team culture. By fostering skill development, knowledge sharing, and cross-functional collaboration, I empowered a multifaceted team of IT professionals to deliver high-impact projects with precision and creativity. Under my leadership, we successfully migrated to cloud platforms, developed bespoke software solutions, and fortified our cybersecurity posture, positioning the organization as a leader in technological innovation within our sector. These efforts not only strengthened our IT infrastructure but also enhanced data-driven decision-making, operational efficiency, and overall business resilience. My holistic approach as CTO has been instrumental in driving the organization’s success, ensuring we remain agile, secure, and competitive in an ever-changing digital landscape.

Chief of Data Management and  Digital Solutions Unit

The future of digital transformation will not be decided by the biggest platform but by the most trusted. I build trust into every system, whether scaling cloud solutions for people in need or designing AI strategies that protect human data.

I learned this early. A single data error once delayed school enrollment for thousands of children. My team fixed it, correcting 63,000 records and cutting delays by 90 percent. That day confirmed a lesson I carry into every project: technology is not about code, it is about human impact.

That belief has shaped my career:

Led the team that built, with my direct contribution, the first large-scale IVR appointment system in the humanitarian sector, connecting thousands to critical services.

Led and contributed to integrating fragmented education data, reducing school enrollment delays by 90 percent.

Forged and co-managed partnerships with Microsoft and AWS, raising more than $1 million for refugee-centric projects.

Directed and supported the rollout of DHIS2 open source platforms used by thousands.

Recognized as UNHCR’s regional technology champion in Jordan for leading impactful digital solutions.

These were not safe bets. They were calculated risks, projects others avoided. Risk is where innovation grows. Each success proved that trust, openness, and impact are not only ideals but also practical design principles.

My leadership philosophy is simple: execution over ego. The best ideas win, regardless of title. I focus on outcomes, empower teams, and create space for collaboration. That is how strong teams turn bold ideas into systems that last.

I stay ahead by learning. Every wave of AI, cloud, and governance reshapes how I work. I have shared these lessons on global stages, including TEDx and UN 2.0 events, where I spoke about building digital systems as public goods.

Core Focus Areas
Cloud Architecture | AI and Data Strategy | Digital Transformation | Open Source and Digital Public Goods | Governance and Security | Capacity Building

If your work touches AI, cloud, or open source for the public good, let us connect and build what lasts.

Principal Architect | Building Trusted Digital Public Goods | Cloud, AI and Open Source Strategy | Driving Innovation in the Humanitarian Sector

Technical Toolbox : Python, R, SQL, Power BI, Azure, AWS, Streamlit, LLMs, Transformers, LangChain, Prompt Engineering, Flask, HTML/CSS, REST APIs
Certifications (selected): CISM, PMP, ITIL, PRINCE2 Practitioner, TOGAF, Microsoft Azure AI Engineer Associate, IBM Generative AI Engineer ,Head of Data and Digital Solution.

Shahzad Asghar

Regina Maria, Reteaua de sanatate

Planning, organizing, budgeting, monitoring, reporting and overseeing different medical and non-medical projects, from start to finish. 
Using various project management methodologies and tools. 
Building and developing the project teams to ensure maximum performance, by providing purpose, direction, and creating context to learn and grow.
Coordinating internal and external resources to ensure that projects adhere to scope, schedule, and budget.
Managing projects after their implementation, analyzing and updating them in accordance with market dynamics or stakeholder requests.
Building and implementing well-being projects in companies, schools, disadvantaged communities (CSR campaigns).
Moderating and facilitating online and offline webinars, workshops and panels on medical and wellbeing subjects.
Providing coaching and mentoring programs.
Developing strategic partnerships wih external partners and medical staff.

Corporate Manager Special Projects @ Regina Maria | Project Management

Coordinating project schedules, resources, equipment and information
Liaise with managers and clients to define project requirements, scopes, and objectives that align with organizational goals
Coordinate internal and external resources, ensuring that projects remain within scope, schedule, and budget
Analyze project progress and, when necessary, adapt scope or timeline to achieve optimal results
Assign roles and tasks to team members based on their individual strengths and abilities
Help build the skill sets of team members and share learnings with other employees, including deliver and facilitating workshops for soft skills.
Achieve organizational goals while adhering to standards and best practices.

Corporate Coordinator Special Projects @Regina Maria | Project Management

Participate in project design, development, and implementing of plans, schedules, budgets.
Assist in cost estimating, scheduling, and tracking
Assume responsibility for coordination of resources and materials, and for scheduling and tracking of project progress
Draft project plans, drawings, and specifications
Communicate and document procedures and work processes
Research, assimilate, and record project data
Work independently or with project team to complete tasks

Corporate Projects Specialist @ Regina Maria | Project Management

Ministry of National Defence, Romanian Embassy to Kiev

Intelligence gathering and political and economic fields analysis. 
Elaborating country profiles and developing and applying scenarios regarding future geopolitical developments. 
Compiling and analyzing published data and statistics. 
Evaluating security risk and assessing future trends in this field. 
Strategic planning, decision implementation and action responsibility in risk based scenarios. 
Diplomatic and Consular practice at Romanian Embassy to Kiev, Ukraine – representing country`s interests abroad in political and consular fields. Attending international conferences on political subjects (EU Delegation to Kiev; OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights; OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine). Contacts with press, NGO`s and foreign diplomatic corps. Relations with Diaspora.

Intelligence Analyst with Diplomatic and Consular Practice

HP, Interbrands, Starbucks

Over 4 years of experience in customer experience and sales jobs at different multinational companies in Bucharest. I developed skills in areas such as customer satisfaction, customer excellence, sales, negotiation, feedback and complaints.

Sales and Customer Service 

Through my current job, I am blessed to have access to information, projects and top doctors in the Romanian health market. So, it would be unfair not to share with others what I am learning and experiencing in the field of health and together to multiply the impact and create healthy communities.

With over 5 years of experience in managing and coordinating different medical and non-medical projects, I am Corporate Manager Special Projects at Regina Maria, a leading healthcare network in Romania. I am passionate about continuous learning and development, and I use my humor, curiosity, and impact-oriented mindset to create value and performance for myself and my teams, because I like to multiply the impact wherever I am.

In my current role, I plan, organize, budget, monitor, report, and oversee various projects, from start to finish, using various project management methodologies and tools. I also build and develop the project teams, ensuring their maximum performance, by providing purpose, direction, and creating context to learn and grow. Additionally, I coordinate internal and external resources, manage projects after their implementation, and build and implement health and wellbeing projects in companies, schools, and communities/CSR such as: cancer screenings, nutrition, physical health, mental health, stress and burnout and first aid workshops. I have a master's degree in International Relations and European Studies, and a bachelor's degree in Political Science and Government, which enable me to communicate effectively, assess risks, and adapt easily to changing environments and stakeholders' needs. I also speak Russian, which is an asset in my field of expertise.

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The Battle

Shahzad Asghar

George Popa

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