18+ Years of experience in the development and management of IT Projects. Demonstrated success in leading complex, multi-location, and multi-vendor projects to timely and high-quality delivery. Proven track record of managing high-value software delivery projects and large client accounts ($5M–$10M annual revenue, 200+ member delivery teams). Actively involved in presales engagements, including client meetings, proposal support, and successful negotiation of multiple Statements of Work (SoWs) and Master Service Agreements (MSAs). A hands-on leader with the ability to manage both strategic execution and daily operations. A people-first approach, focused on employee development, engagement, and retention. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities with efficiency. Action-oriented and able to turn strategic plans into measurable outcomes through detailed execution. Strong focus on operational efficiency and process improvement. Strong analytical background Excellent CSAT and NPS scores with a focus on account growth and stakeholder management. Provide expert guidance in establishing project delivery frameworks, including audit and compliance mechanisms. Currently leveraging AI technologies to streamline project workflows, enhance stakeholder engagement, and enable predictive analytics in program and portfolio management. Deep industry experience across eCommerce, BFSI, HR, Sports, Energy, Healthcare, Travel, and Retail, delivering scalable, high-impact solutions tailored to sector-specific challenges using AI-enhanced decision-making. Certified in Project Management Professional (PMP), Generative AI for Project Managers, Practical Gen AI Applications, CPMAI™, Strategic Management (IIM Bangalore), Generative AI for Leaders & CxOs (Thub Academy), AI & Agility (Scrum Alliance), and Adobe Commerce Business Practitioner. Hands-on experience with leading Large Language Models (LLMs) and AI platforms including OpenAI GPT (prompt engineering, workflow automation), Anthropic Claude (strategic analysis), Google Gemini Flash (multimodal AI), Grok (real-time insights), Mistral AI (efficient deployment), Perplexity AI (research synthesis), and Tabnine (code acceleration). Outside of work, Rakesh is a marathon runner, continuous learner, and servant leadership advocate, having spoken at over 15 industry forums on Agile leadership, AI in delivery, eCommerce, and operational excellence.