Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Gwen Howard is an experienced Director of Information Technology with a proven track record of driving digital transformation and operational excellence. With over 20 years of industry expertise, she specializes in business process optimization, performance engineering, and technology implementation across diverse sectors.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Director of Information Technology at PFS, a PFSweb, Inc. brand, Gwen is responsible for leading the company's global IT strategy and infrastructure. In this role, she oversees a team of 35 IT professionals and manages a $12 million annual technology budget. Gwen's key achievements include:
- Spearheading the implementation of a cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, resulting in a 25% improvement in operational efficiency.
- Developing and executing a comprehensive cybersecurity program, reducing the organization's risk exposure by 35%.
- Driving the adoption of agile methodologies, leading to a 40% reduction in software development timelines.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Gwen held various senior-level positions, including Senior Business Process Analyst and Configuration Engineer at Mannatech Inc., and Senior Business Process Analyst and Performance Testing Engineer at Blockbuster. She also gained valuable experience as a Senior Application Instructor and Implementation Consultant at J.D. Edwards (now Oracle/PeopleSoft), and as an Operations Manager at CellStar.
Academic Background
Gwen holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Texas at Dallas, where she graduated cum laude.
Areas of Expertise
- Enterprise IT strategy and governance
- Business process reengineering and optimization
- Performance engineering and testing
- Agile software development and project management
- Cybersecurity and risk management
- Team leadership and talent development
Professional Impact
Gwen's expertise and leadership have had a significant impact on the organizations she has served. Her ability to align technology solutions with business objectives has consistently driven operational efficiency, cost savings, and competitive advantage. Gwen is a sought-after speaker and contributor within the information technology community, and she actively participates in industry events and professional associations.
Conclusion
With her extensive experience, technical acumen, and strategic mindset, Gwen Howard is well-positioned to continue driving digital transformation and delivering measurable business results. Her commitment to innovation and her passion for empowering high-performing teams make her a valuable asset to any organization.
