Anu Rathore
Program management, Strategic Planning, Risk Management
Summary
Results-driven professional with 14 years of leadership experience in managing large-scale projects, operational processes, and talent development in fast-paced and high-stakes environments. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, implement process innovations, and deliver complex infrastructure and technology projects on time and within budget. Adept at strategic planning, risk management, and stakeholder engagement across multiple levels of government and industry. Experienced in optimizing workforce performance through targeted training programs, data-driven performance management, and a collaborative leadership approach. Currently transitioning to the corporate sector, bringing a strong foundation in operational excellence, people leadership, and executional discipline.
Overview
2023
2023
years of professional experience
4
4
Certifications
Work History
Senior Program Manager
Indian Air Force
2021 - 01.2023
- Led end to end project management of Indigenous cockpit rescue ladder for Rafale aircraft, enhancing the safety and accessibility by 40% with cost effective unit price of ₹ 80,000, demonstrating innovation and fiscal efficiency.
- Led the integration and commissioning of VCCS (Voice communication and Control system) worth ₹ 1.5 Cr under modernization of airfield infrastructure , ₹ 1200 crore contract awarded to TATA Power SED.
- Championed the integration of Rafale flight simulation technology into air traffic management training after presenting a compelling business case to senior stakeholders. The project improved controller proficiency and streamlined operational workflows.
- Identified and acquired a strategically vital land parcel under the PM Gati Shakti initiative , facilitating the establishment of emergency landing infrastructure along a national highway. Ensured multi-agency compliance with aviation and infrastructure standards through effective coordination with the Ministry of Defense, Air HQ, and NHAI.
- Led the end-to-end execution of the Agniveer Vayu recruitment program , ensuring strategic skill-to-role mapping, process efficiency, and full compliance with organizational policies and governance frameworks .
- Mentored and supported department employees to create strong workplace culture,fostering a high performance, collaborative team culture that improved decision-making and accountability.
Senior Program Manager
Indian Air Force
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Managed flying operations involving assets worth ₹500-700 crore annually, demonstrating sound judgement in managing high value, time sensitive logistics, and stakeholders coordination in high-pressure environments.
- Led the development and deployment of an advanced air traffic control (ATC) radar simulation system, enhancing training effectiveness for over 50 personnel and reducing operational errors by 25% .
- Secured stakeholder buy-in and implemented simulators as standard training tools , contributing to organizational capability building across multiple units.
- Led crisis response and operational readiness during high-visibility joint exercises and missions (e.g., Balakot, Cope India 2023), showcasing exceptional agility in dynamic, multiagency environments.
- Enhanced standard operating procedures (SOPs), manpower planning & safety audits aligned with global aviation standards, achieving 95% operational capability standard.
Senior Program Manager
Indian Air Force
01.2014 - 01.2017
- Streamlined operational budgets and procurement cycles, driving efficient use of resources through cost-benefit analysis and adherence to audit protocols.
- Redesigned and led large-scale training and mentorship programs —including weekly, monthly, and quarterly performance reviews— for over 100 staff , significantly enhancing talent readiness and accelerating professional growth.
- Spearheaded coordination with public sector and regulatory bodies, ensuring seamless conduct of large-scale exercises and securing compliance for infrastructure projects near aviation zones.
- Led cross-functional teams to enhance radar surveillance systems by collaborating with Bharat Electronics Ltd. , achieving a 20% improvement in reliability and readiness metrics.
- Designed and executed anti-hijack contingency plans, conducting simulation drills in coordination with airports and security agencies to reinforce response frameworks.
Program Manager
Indian Air Force
01.2010 - 01.2013
- Directed over 2,000 aircraft movements annually , managing large scale operational planning, reducing turn-around time, and agile task execution .
- Maintained a 100% safety compliance rate over 6,000+ air movements , ensuring strict adherence to SOPs and emergency protocols- showcasing risk management, governance and operational discipline .
- Designed and executed anti-hijack contingency plans, conducting simulation drills in coordination with airports and security agencies to reinforce response frameworks.
- Led grievance redressal and welfare initiatives , including performance appraisals, feedback loops, and workplace safety as part of the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), promoting a respectful and inclusive environment.
- Coordinated complex administrative logistics during high-stakes events such as VVIP visits, humanitarian missions, and emergency medical evacuations—ensuring flawless execution in collaboration with civil authorities.
Education
Business Management Program -
Indian Institute of Management
MBA - HR
NMIMS
Bachelors Of Arts -
Sophia College
Skills
- End-to-End Project Lifecycle Management
- Strategic Planning & Execution
- Process Optimization
- Budgeting & Regulatory Compliance
- Strategic goal development
- Project leadership
Certification
Certification in Communication Skills – Madras University | Apr 2025
Awards
Assam-Bengal Medal (2010–2012) – Conferred in recognition of distinguished service in the North East region, including critical operational deployments, ‘Good Show’ Flight Safety Award (2022) – Recognized for exemplary decision-making and operational execution in recovering a fighter aircraft on single-engine
Key Leadership Highlights
- Directed operations and administration for a cross-functional team of 100+ personnel and managed critical assets in highly volatile and challenging environments.
- Designed and implemented comprehensive training frameworks for upskilling officers in leadership, operational planning, and decision-making, driving enhanced performance across units.
- Successfully led high-stakes rescue and evacuation missions in hostile regions, coordinating with international forces and ensuring civilian safety under extreme pressure.
Timeline
Senior Program Manager
Indian Air Force
01.2018 - 01.2020
Senior Program Manager
Indian Air Force
01.2014 - 01.2017
Program Manager
Indian Air Force
01.2010 - 01.2013
MBA - HR
NMIMS
Senior Program Manager
Indian Air Force
2021 - 01.2023
Business Management Program -
Indian Institute of Management
Bachelors Of Arts -
Sophia College
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