Bruce Mann

Background

About Bruce Mann

Solving problems and troubleshooting are my favorite parts of directing technology overhauls and upgrades. As a Director of Technology at American Express, I was known for my ability to solve problems that had others stumped. I see around the problems and find creative solutions that not only cost less, but are usually less expensive to implement. This is where my consultative mindset is so helpful. I produce solutions but am also able to apply my day-to-day management expertise to drive results for complex implementations throughout all phases of the IT development lifecycle. I believe that the most efficient solution is the best and that the expensive solution is just that…expensive. Balancing the bottom line is key to managing technology infrastructure. Efficiency must be married with sound financial principles and cost control. Application upgrades and technology improvements must coexist with effective resource allocation. I have kept the upgrades "in house" and also used offshore personnel and contractors. Each technology project is unique and what works best for one project may not work for another. Aligning each project with the executive strategic vision ensures positive integration and cost effective resource allocation. For me, it all boils down to agility. Agility to change direction mid-stream and still get the desired results. Agility to use different management styles for different employees. Agility to drive continuous improvement results and realize projects on time and under budget. And, above all, the agility to recognize when I need to pull it out of my bag of tricks and when to put it away. Specialties: Information Technology Management Resource Allocation Budget Management System Architecture Design and Testing Benchmarking and Analysis Project Management Cost Control Offshore Resource Management Financial Systems Platform Management Mentoring and Coaching Performance Improvement Plans