Aramco

Over 2years of experience leading digital and technological initiatives in process control systems at Saudi Aramco. Key responsibilities have included:

•Driving the implementation of 5G wireless networks and edge computing platforms for real-time industrial automation and predictive analytics. Successfully delivered 10+ 5G pilot projects in refining, crude oil processing, and gas plant operations. 

•Leading the Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) project to migrate copper Ethernet networks to fiber optic connections, improving bandwidth, security, and reliability across industrial control systems. Reduced maintenance costs by over 30% following deployment. 

•Overseeing the Advanced Process Control (APC) team and library of over 50 AI/ML-based control strategies for optimizing operations, reducing energy usage, and increasing throughput. Saved $150M+ in operational costs through APC deployments. 

•Providing oversight and guidance on the company's Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) roadmap and smart manufacturing initiatives to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability across facilities. 

•Managing a team of 50+ engineers responsible for systems integration, application support, cybersecurity management, and smart device/sensor deployment related to Industrial Automation and Process Control systems.

Led cross-functional teams to deliver innovative digital solutions that have transformed how operations are monitored and controlled across Saudi Aramco's refining, gas, and crude oil production complexes. Skilled in emerging technologies, project management, process control architecture, and IIoT strategy.

Industrial Communications Engineer, Process and Control system department |Private 5G

Over 2 years of experience leading IT infrastructure and digital projects enabling key business initiatives at Saudi Aramco. key responsibilities have included:

•Led the Enterprise Computing System (ECS) master appropriation to provide core server and storage equipment for Saudi Aramco's data centers, enabling improved availability, scalability, and redundancy of mission-critical systems. Project delivered $500M+ in IT infrastructure supporting key Refining, Oil, and Gas operations. 

•Supported major offshore oil field development projects, including the Zuluf and Master Gas System Phase III projects. Responsible for designing and implementing data network infrastructure, communications equipment, and IT/OT convergence strategies across the projects. Ensured seamless connectivity and data flow across onshore and offshore facilities. 

•Served as Integrated Project Team (IPT) leader for cross-functional teams delivering Saudi Aramco's Smart City and Smart Plant initiatives. Responsible for aligning roadmaps across IT, OT, facilities and project management to build out innovative digital platforms and smart infrastructure enabling improved environmental management, asset optimization, and operational efficiency. 

•Developed strong business planning, strategy, project management, and business development skills through these leadership opportunities. Proven ability to lead complex, multi-disciplinary teams and projects; manage budgets, risks, and relationships; ensure quality and timely delivery; and drive business value and ROI.

This experience highlighted key strengths in IT infrastructure, project management, digital strategy, and business development. Track record of delivering innovative technology solutions and platforms that have transformed Saudi Aramco's operations through improved connectivity, data availability, automation, and insight. Skilled in emerging technologies, project governance, requirements management, and IT/OT convergence.

Planning Engineer, Facilities Planning Department|Smart City

Over 1 years of experience delivering IT and network infrastructure projects within Saudi Aramco's Communications department. Key responsibilities have included:

•Participated in construction and rollout activities for high-speed transmission networks and Tier III certified data centers across Dhahran area facilities, including the Corporate Data Center (CDC) and Tower Computer Center (TCC). Ensured network infrastructure met availability, latency, bandwidth and redundancy requirements for mission-critical systems and business operations. 

•Supported network upgrades across multiple operating areas, including the Refining, Oil, Gas, Remote Sites and Head Office networks. Upgraded and expanded network capacity and connectivity to enable improved collaboration, data sharing, and real-time visibility across the company's global operations. 

•Provided testing and implementation oversight for major network migrations, including the migration of Head Office networks from Frame Relay to Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) infrastructure. The migration improved network performance, security, and manageability while reducing costs. 

•Stayed up-to-date with advancements in network equipment, switching/routing technologies, wireless networks, firewalls/cybersecurity systems, network monitoring tools, and cloud networking strategies to continually improve the company's network infrastructure. 

•Proven experience with network architectures (OSI model), protocols (TCP/IP, Ethernet, VLANs, VoIP), technologies (MPLS, SDN, NFV), and networking equipment (cisco networking routers, switches, firewalls). Strong skills in network design, deployment, management, monitoring, cybersecurity, and stakeholder management.

This experience highlights a strong background in IT network operations, infrastructure projects, advancement strategy, and networking technologies. A track record of delivering high availability, high performance networks enabling critical business operations.

Data Network Engineer, Communications Operations Department |Data Center|Cisco ACI

Over 2 years of experience leading IT and communications projects within Saudi Aramco's upstream operations, including the Fadhili Gas Program and Offshore projects. Key responsibilities have included:

•Worked on the Tetra project under the Fadhili Gas Program, enabling mission-critical voice and data communications across gas processing facilities. Managed the design, deployment and integration of Tetra radio networks ensuring 100% network coverage and 99.999% system availability. 

•Participated in 30%, 60% and 90% design reviews as well as Issue for Construction (IFC) approvals for Communications and Security systems projects across the Fadhili Gas Plant and Hasbah Offshore facilities. Ensured network designs met availability, bandwidth, coverage and security requirements to enable safe and efficient operations. 

•Gained exposure to SDH and DWDM transmission equipment, Nokia PSS1830 network management systems, and radio coverage study tools and methodologies through these upstream projects. Proficient in applying these technologies to deliver high-capacity, secure communications networks with 99.999% uptime.

•Improved processes for designing, integrating and migrating critical communications infrastructure during major facility expansions, partnerships, and M&A activity. Reduced risks and ensured minimal disruption to business-critical communications.

•Strong experience with mission-critical network architectures, SDH/DWDM transmission, industrial network equipment (radio, PABX, networking), network management systems, and project governance. Skilled in cybersecurity best practices, risk management, stakeholder management and ensuring regulatory compliance.

This experience highlights key strengths in delivering secure, high-availability communications networks enabling safe and efficient upstream operations. A proven track record of managing complex infrastructure projects, integrating new technologies, and mitigating risks to critical communications service

Project Engineer, Fadhili Gas Program|TETRA|GSM

Over 6 months  of experience delivering secure and scalable IT networks enabling mission-critical operations at Saudi Aramco. Key highlights include:

•Led the Engineering Design Package (EDP) and deployment of company-wide IT infrastructure across Dhahran, Ras Tanurah, Wa'ad al Shamal and Midyan Gas Plant locations. Grew network capacity by over 500% and reduced latency by 75% while ensuring zero system downtime during major infrastructure expansions and facility openings. 

•Managed high-profile network migrations, including the migration of 10,000+ nodes from Frame Relay to MPLS architecture. Successfully migrated infrastructure supporting key business systems on schedule and with minimal disruption to operations. 

•Stayed up-to-date with advancements in virtual networking, cloud platforms, cybersecurity systems and IT service management frameworks. Implemented SDN/NFV, network segmentation, vulnerability management and ITSM best practices enabling an adaptable and secure IT operating model.

•Proven experience with network architectures (OSI model), technologies (MPLS, SDN, NFV, cloud), equipment (cisco networking routers/switches, fortinet next-generation firewalls) and frameworks (ITIL, COBIT, TOGAF). Skilled in IT strategy development, project management (PRINCE2, PMP), risk/issue management and ensuring regulatory compliance.

•Used insights from network monitoring, analytics and KPIs to optimize performance, reduce costs and drive key business initiatives. Achieved 25-30% reduced costs through optimization and right-sizing of IT spend while improving IT agility, resilience and alignment with company goals.

With a passion for emerging technologies and using IT as a strategic enabler of business goals, this experience has built a strong foundation in delivering innovative network solutions and platforms supporting Saudi Aramco's mission-critical operations. A dedication to excellence, stakeholder engagement and operational efficiency.

IT Engineer, Information Technology Engineering Department |Routing & Switching

Over a year of experience managing the daily operations and maintenance of mission-critical IT networks across Saudi Aramco's upstream and downstream facilities. Key responsibilities have included:

•Led Operations & Maintenance activities for IT infrastructure across Ras Tanurah Refinary and Terminal, Juaymah NGL, Abu Ali, Berri Gas Plant, Qatif GOSP (Abu Saafa) and Sea Islands locations. Ensured network availability, performance, security and compliance aligned with service level agreements. 

•Monitored over 500 network nodes, 5000 network devices and 15 petabytes of storage across these facilities. Performed troubleshooting, issue resolution, preventative maintenance and capacity management to optimize infrastructure reliability and cost. 

•Stayed up-to-date with best practices in network monitoring, management, optimization and cybersecurity. Implemented tools, processes and protocols enhancing visibility, control and protection of network resources supporting key business operations.

•Provided oversight and guidance for a team of 15+ network engineers and administrators. Developed skills and ensured consistency in operations, support and maintenance methodologies across locations and technology stacks.

•Used network performance data, monitoring alerts, audits and metrics to identify opportunities for optimization, standardization and cost savings. Reduced infrastructure spends by over 20% through upgrading, reconfiguring and right-sizing network resources. 

•Experience with network monitoring, management and optimization tools (PRTG, SolarWinds, OpenNMS), systems (MPLS, PABX, IT storage/compute) and frameworks (ISO 20000, ITIL). Technical skills in networking/cybersecurity technologies, configurations (routing/switching, VLANs, access control), and troubleshooting complex multi-site environments. 

Proven track record of ensuring network availability, optimizing performance and reducing costs through hands-on management of IT infrastructure operations.

Data Network Engineer

Over a year of experience planning and delivering IT and communications infrastructure enabling strategic capital projects within Saudi Aramco. Key responsibilities have included:

•Participated in planning IT and communications networks for Jazan Abha Pipeline 2 (JABL 2), Community Services Projects and Southern Area Pipelines Rehabilitation projects under the Facilities Planning department. Ensured network designs met availability, performance, security and expansion requirements to support project objectives. 

•Conducted detailed analysis on current infrastructure, future growth projections, key business priorities and market/cost risks to determine optimal network capacities, equipment selections and implementation strategies for these projects. Applied risk management tools like tornado analysis to analyze volatility and anticipate escalation. Proposed solutions reducing total cost of ownership by over 25% while improving service delivery. 

•Stayed up-to-date with emerging technologies and best practices in network designing, cybersecurity, project management, budgeting and financing standards. Applied tools/methodologies including network modeling, rack layout planning, agile project delivery, and synergy activities to optimize the capital program budget and financing. Enabled efficient planning and rollout of these capital networks.

•Collaborated with cross-functional stakeholders including network engineers, facility architects, project managers, finance leaders and vendors to align infrastructure plans with project schedules, budgets, key priorities and cost controls. Mitigated risks and issues threatening delays, cost overruns or budget non-compliance through effective communication, documentation and governance. 

•Experienced with facilities planning requirements, processes and tools as well as risk management techniques, budgeting standards, and ensuring regulatory/financial compliance. Skilled in network architecture, technologies(MPLS, DWDM, VoIP)

Planning Engineer, Facilities Planning Department

Ithra

Volunteer

King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals - KFUPM

Innovation and Entrepreneurship Beyond core IT and project management experience, Ali has a passion for innovation, venture development and applying emerging technologies to new business models.  He has:

•Exposure to agile methodologies and startup best practices through partnerships with innovation teams at Saudi Aramco Talent Factory and Aramco Entrepreneurship Center. Helped establish agile frameworks for developing new ventures and building innovative mindsets across the organization. 

•Experience working with startups and VC firms on business development, growth hacking, fundraising and product development initiatives. Hands-on experience with design thinking, lean methodology, customer discovery and validating technology ideas. 

•Developed expertise in building innovative business models and software solutions through creating a startup focused on smart agriculture applications and technologies. Hands-on experience with full stack development, IoT/sensor integration and blockchain solutions. 

•Skilled in design thinking, lean startup methodology, business modeling (Canvas model), growth hacking, venture capital interactions, fundraising, software engineering and IoT/blockchain development. Proven ability to take new ideas from concept to minimum viable product and viable business models. 

•Passion for exploring emerging technologies and applying them to solve key challenges across industries. From smart agriculture to smart cities, AI to automation, interested in leveraging technologies for social good and sustainability. 

While the background and experience come from within Saudi Aramco, the drive comes from a dedication to innovation, entrepreneurship and industrious problem-solving. An ability and desire to think beyond traditional IT roles and push new frontiers of possibility combining technology, business acumen and human-centered design. 

Entrepreneurial spirit and skills combined with a proven history of leadership and delivery.

Entrepreneurial leadership Programme

Toastmasters International

Proactive and dedicated leader with over 8 years of experience developing high-performing teams and strengthening organizational effectiveness within globally respected non-profit organizations. Currently serving as Secretary for Dhahran Toastmasters Club, one of the leading Toastmasters clubs in Saudi Arabia with over 200 members. 

Key responsibilities include: 
•Managing club administrative details, proceedings and communications. Ensuring operational alignment with Toastmasters International policies and brand standards. 
•Proposing and implementing initiatives enhancing member engagement, club visibility and growth. Led campaign increasing club membership by 35%+ in the past 12 months. 
•Collaborating with an elected Executive Committee and club members to develop strategies, set goals and determine priorities supporting the Toastmasters mission. 
•Organizing and facilitating meetings, events, conferences and training programs. Provide mentoring and support for members at every stage of their Toastmasters journey. 
•Staying up-to-date with advancements in leadership development, communication skills, project management and stakeholder relations to continually improve member experiences and club management.

Years of experience across various functions at Saudi Aramco have built a demonstrated track record of:

•Driving organizational transformation and team development through strategic leadership. 
•Managing complex, cross-functional projects delivering significant business impact and value. 
•Building high-trust relationships, enabling collaboration and empowering individuals/teams to achieve more than originally thought possible. 
•Developing and implementing initiatives enhancing operational efficiency, effectiveness and excellence. 
• Applying a data-driven and innovative mindset to solve difficult problems, reduce costs/risks and open up new opportunities for growth.

Secretary

Intern, Facilities Planning Department, Saudi Aramco 
Conducted business case analysis and developed implementation recommendations for key projects enabling operational excellence and productivity within Saudi Aramco's upstream business units. 

•Hydrocarbon Operational Control Center (OCC) Project: Analyzed requirements, reviewed designs and determined optimal space planning to accommodate over 100 workstations and large format displays while enabling situational awareness, real-time decision making and personnel collaboration. 

•Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Project: Researched security standards, policy frameworks and management tools facilitating secure access to internal systems and applications from employee-owned devices. Proposed phased rollout approach ensuring minimal disruption to productivity. 

•High Performance Computing (HPC) Systems Project: Evaluated different HPC solutions and architectures based on algorithms, data sets, performance metrics and total cost of ownership to enable advanced analytics and modeling for subsurface insights, reservoir management and drilling optimization. 

Gained exposure to facilities management best practices, project management methodologies (PRINCE2, PMP), business case development, requirements analysis, design review, space planning and ensuring regulatory compliance across upstream operations. 

• Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills with an eye for discovering opportunities to optimize resources, enhance productivity and reduce costs while improving quality and service delivery. 
• Detail-oriented and adept at managing competing priorities, complex challenges and tight deadlines/budgets with a dedication to meeting stakeholder needs. 
• Always looking to expand knowledge through continuous learning and finding ways to leverage new insights for the benefit of key business initiatives and organizational progress.

aramco

Candidate Development, Presidential Elections & Math/Science Competition, Aramco College Property Program (ACPP) and Aramco College 
Selected to represent ACPP as a Candidate for the Presidential Elections and appointed as Candidate Development & Presidential Elections Committee Member.  Also participated as Judge & Volunteer for the Aramco College Math & Science Competition. Responsibilities included:

•Developed strategies increasing candidate registrations by 25% and voted participation by 20% year over year. Utilized data insights to determine optimal outreach approaches through various communication channels. 

•Led candidate training workshops enhancing Leadership, Communication, Critical thinking and Problem-solving skills through interactive discussions, case studies, role-playing scenarios and feedback/mentoring sessions. Over 95% of candidates reported increased confidence and preparedness for the election. 

•Co-proposed amendments to the ACPP bylaws and regulations improving governance, operational efficiency, candidate experience, and alignment with Saudi Aramco values/strategies. All proposed amendments were approved unanimously by the ACPP Council. 

• Collaborated with cross-functional teams organizing candidate/voter awareness campaigns, leadership debates, election activities and Math/Science Competition as per schedule ensuring regulatory compliance and optimal resource utilization. 

•Judge & Volunteer for Aramco College Math & Science Competition, mentoring students and evaluating projects/presentations based on criteria such as creativity, feasibility, social impact and sustainability. 

•Candidate for the ACPP Presidency, running on a platform focused on “Strength. Progress. Impact.” outlining key initiatives aimed at strategic growth, talent development, seamless service delivery and financial discipline. Gained over 30% of the popular vote, becoming the 3rd candidate. 

•Experienced leader dedicated to empowering teams, developing talent.

CDPNE

Experienced industry 4.0 and digital transformation professional passionate about leveraging emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, IoT, blockchain and automation to drive growth and operational efficiencies. Skilled in implementing industrial internet of things (IIoT) solutions, digital business models, predictive analytics, smart factories and smart city initiatives to enable smarter and more connected industrial organizations. 

Over 5 years of experience helping enable Saudi Aramco's smart city vision through the development and deployment of IIoT platforms, data analytics solutions, and smart infrastructure projects. Dedicated to helping companies embrace innovation and prepare for the future of work in the areas of smart cities, energy management, and intelligent transportation. 

Experienced in industry 4.0, digital transformation, industrial internet of things, smart city in Saudi Aramco. Helping drive digital transformation across people, process and technology dimensions.

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