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In a world where technology reigns supreme, there are individuals who stand out for their remarkable contributions, not only in their professional fields but also in their commitment to empowering women in the tech industry. One such remarkable figure is Kelly Machado, the Head of Digital Strategy & Transformation for the UAE Government. With an impressive 26-year journey in the technology realm, including 7 years of experience in the UAE, Machado’s story is one of expertise, empowerment, and innovation.
Kelly Machado’s journey began over two decades ago while doing Data Processing & computer science in one of the most competitive federal entities of Brazil – Federal Technical School of Mato Grosso & Federal University of Mato Grosso, and her passion for technology quickly propelled her into a path of profound influence. Her initial foray into the industry was as a webmaster, simultaneously teaching classes and freelancing for various clients. During this period, in the heart of Latin America, Machado realized the opportunity to make her mark in a predominantly male-dominated market. Recognizing that her unique perspective as a woman could lead to more effective business analysis and requirements gathering, she set out to create a difference.
Stepping into the technology landscape, Kelly Machado’s dedication and diligence were evident from the start. Over the course of her illustrious career, she has amassed a wealth of experience in diverse domains, honing her skills in Digital Transformation Governance & Strategy, Portfolio Management, Program & Project Management, and Services Delivery with a focus on Cloud Transition and Transformation.
Machado’s achievements are a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence. She has been instrumental in successfully implementing Information Technology Project Management Offices (ITPMOs), crafting technology strategic roadmaps, and spearheading Digital Transformation Strategy & Governance for esteemed government clientele in the region. Her role has extended beyond strategic planning; she has managed the entire lifecycle of Technology Requests for Proposals (RFPs) – from evaluating business requirements to procurement.
One of her standout feats lies in the sphere of Application and Cloud Projects. Machado’s managerial prowess shines as she efficiently oversees complex implementations and rollouts of Cloud Solutions, ERP Migrations, and Transformations. From conceptualization to operationalization and delivery, she has navigated these projects with budgets ranging from 2 million to 5 million USD. In addition, her proficiency extends to SAP Business Transformation Projects, where she has managed projects with CapEx reaching up to 5 million USD.
Her role as a Software Engineering Manager has showcased her mastery across the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), encompassing requirements analysis, UML, prototyping, database design, development, deployment, quality assurance, and end-user training. This multifaceted skill set has enabled her to execute diverse projects that span industries and geographies, each with unique complexities and challenges.
Kelly Machado’s portfolio is a testament to her diversity in handling projects. Her experience includes delivering impactful solutions in areas such as Banking Compliance Applications, E-commerce, IT Operations Transition & Transformation, Pre-Paid Cards Implementation, ORACLE & SAP Implementations, Government Court Applications, and more. Her versatility shines through, as she navigates intricate domains like IT Governance and PMO Implementation, Nuclear Energy Applications, and Banking Network Refresh.
Machado’s methodologies domain is just as impressive as her project portfolio. With a command over methodologies like PMI, ITIL, COBIT, AGILE, PRINCE2, TOGAF, DevOps, WATERFALL, RUP, UML, CMMI, LEAN, SCRUM, SOX, Basiléia II, and BS 7799 – NBR/ISO 17799 – ISO 9001/27001/27002, she demonstrates her adaptability and proficiency in implementing industry best practices.
As we look to the present and the future, Kelly Machado’s outlook on the technology industry is both insightful and empowering. Her strategic vision, governance acumen, and architectural prowess have positioned her as a driving force in a field still largely dominated by males. Amidst a technology revolution brimming with innovations, her consultancy background, akin to that of esteemed consulting giants but at a more accessible cost, holds immense value. This becomes especially relevant as the UAE government intensifies its push for digital transformation within the country.
Having spent the last decade dedicating her expertise to various government entities in the UAE, Machado’s journey has expanded from within to beyond. She has transitioned from an internal stakeholder to a vendor, offering her services to a range of entities and government stakeholders. Her impact has been so profound that she has become a reference point, gracing several technology conferences in the UAE and Saudi Arabia with her insights and experiences.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kelly Machado’s dedication to empowering women and underprivileged children adds another layer to her inspiring journey. Her efforts to teach technology basics to disadvantaged kids reflect her commitment to giving back to her community. Her vision of empowering young girls through education echoes her own journey of overcoming challenges in a male-dominated industry.
Additionally, Machado’s initiative to start a global podcast gathering women in tech to discuss challenges, achievements, and experiences is a testament to her dedication to women’s advancement in the industry. By creating a platform for open dialogue, she’s fostering a supportive network that transcends borders.
In conclusion, Kelly Machado’s journey is a testament to the power of experience, dedication, and empowerment in the technology industry. Her ability to navigate complex landscapes, coupled with her commitment to fostering change and inclusion, sets a remarkable precedent for aspiring women in tech. As we move forward into a future driven by technology, leaders like Kelly Machado illuminate the path to a more inclusive and innovative world. To know more about her journey follow her on socials:- Linkedin and Instagram.
