James Praveen
Bangalore
Summary
Dynamic & Seasoned Engagement Leader with significant experience in developing strategic initiatives for business growth and performance improvement. Known for exceptional leadership skills, excelling in team collaboration, communication and fostering a high-performance culture. Have made impactful contributions by delivering results through process optimization and stakeholder engagement. Possess strong problem-solving abilities coupled with solid decision-making skills to drive success.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
EMEA Client Engagement Leader
Ernst & Young (EY)
Bangalore
10.2022 - Current
- Leading client engagement for EY’s largest Nordics accounts with ownership of end-to-end delivery and relationship strategy.
- Managing client lifecycle across transformation, revenue management, budgeting, and strategic planning.
- Driving cost control initiatives, financial analytics, and forecasting to ensure profitability and performance KPIs.
- Spearheading automation and process reengineering programs to increase operational efficiency.
- Collaborating with senior stakeholders across geographies to align services with business value delivery.
- Instrumental in setting up and leading large-scale delivery centers to support enterprise accounts across EMEA.
Supportability and Transition Lead
CGI (Contracted for Shell India)
Bangalore
01.2022 - 10.2022
- Delivered seamless transitions for Shell India's Engineering/Capital projects into steady-state support environments.
- Led support planning for infrastructure, applications, and middleware with full compliance to Shell global standards.
- Maintained operational cost forecasting and implemented support readiness across a portfolio of dependent projects.
- Provided governance on SLAs, security compliance, business continuity, and audit readiness.
- Advised project delivery leadership on transition strategies and support tool optimization for global operations.
Manager – Business Operations
BGRS
Bangalore
11.2017 - 12.2021
- Managed service operations for HR mobility accounts across delivery centers, ensuring SLA adherence and operational excellence.
- Redesigned service models and implemented change management strategies across global client programs.
- Directed financial performance, compliance monitoring, and audit preparation for high-value accounts.
- Built a people-first work environment, focusing on retention, leadership coaching, and team performance metrics.
Cost Estimate Specialist
CGI
Bangalore
05.2016 - 11.2017
- Created detailed cost estimates for global assignments including living allowances, taxes, and relocation benefits.
- Performed payroll audits, cost validations, and financial modeling using Mercer tools and HR platforms.
- Automated costing processes and implemented dashboards to improve cost accuracy and transparency.
- Collaborated with internal stakeholders to align budget forecasts with project requirements and compliance mandates.
Team Lead
Ernst & Young (EY)
Bangalore
06.2011 - 12.2015
- Managed billing, financial tracking, and project reporting for large audit and advisory accounts.
- Directed resource planning and cost center management aligned with revenue targets.
- Ensured service delivery quality, handled partner-level escalations, and prepared SOWs for client engagements.
- Enhanced team productivity and delivery speed by initiating process reforms and mentoring junior team members.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Computer Science
Sambhram Academy of Management Studies
Bangalore01.2011
Skills
- Client Engagement & Relationship Management
- Cost Estimation & Budget Forecasting
- Financial Analytics & Revenue Management
- Delivery Center Setup & Operations Leadership
- Strategic Transformation & Value Creation
- Service Delivery & SLA Governance
- Project & Program Management
- Process Automation & Change Management
Websites
Certification
- PMP, Pursuing
- Lean Six Sigma, White Belt
Hobbies and Interests
- Global Markets
- International Business
- Financial Technologies
- AI in Cost Estimation
References
Available on request.
Timeline
EMEA Client Engagement Leader
Ernst & Young (EY)
10.2022 - Current
Supportability and Transition Lead
CGI (Contracted for Shell India)
01.2022 - 10.2022
Manager – Business Operations
BGRS
11.2017 - 12.2021
Cost Estimate Specialist
CGI
05.2016 - 11.2017
Team Lead
Ernst & Young (EY)
06.2011 - 12.2015
Bachelor of Science - Computer Science
Sambhram Academy of Management Studies
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