Client Background
A leading bank in the UAE sought to establish a robust Program Management Office (PMO) to enhance governance and streamline the management of its strategic initiatives. The bank required a structured engagement framework to effectively monitor and manage program activities, ensuring alignment with its strategic objectives while mitigating risks and optimizing operational oversight.
Cedar’s Unmatched Approach
Leveraging over 18 years of expertise in program management, Cedar implemented a comprehensive PMO governance framework and workstream coordination strategy, facilitating the successful rollout of the bank’s new mobile channel. Cedar’s strategic leadership ensured that all program activities were meticulously managed to meet the bank’s objectives.
Strategic Implementation and Governance
- PMO Governance: Cedar developed a detailed governance framework designed to manage the bank’s program at every level. This included executive presentations, strategic advisory, governance monitoring, periodic updates, and risk management. Cedar led both the Working and Steering Committee meetings, offering strategic advisory services to senior management and providing continuous monitoring of workstreams against the established program plan.
- Workstream Coordination: Cedar managed five critical workstreams: requirement design and analysis, product integration, customer migration, functional testing, and training & cutover. By providing detailed oversight and facilitating alignment with the bank’s program objectives, Cedar ensured that the integration and testing approaches were efficient and that all program risks were effectively managed.
Outcomes and Strategic Benefits
Cedar’s Agile PMO governance approach enabled the bank to establish clear governance protocols, significantly improve risk management, and provide enhanced oversight across all strategic workstreams. The tailored engagement framework allowed the bank to drive the implementation of its mobile channel with greater efficiency, control, and alignment with its strategic goals. The project remains on track, positioning the bank to achieve higher operational efficiency and deliver a more cohesive and agile approach to managing its strategic initiatives.