Mark Howard
Sydney,NSW
Summary
Strategic and results-driven executive with over 18 years of experience in leading complex digital transformations and managing large-scale technology portfolios within the private and public sector. Proven expertise in establishing enterprise-wide governance frameworks, optimizing investment strategies, and delivering measurable outcomes through technology-enabled initiatives. Recognized for driving innovation, enhancing portfolio performance, and fostering stakeholder engagement at the highest levels.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Director, Digital Strategy, Investment and Assurance
Department of Customer Service, Digital NSW, NSW Government
01.2019 - Current
- Led the development and implementation of the NSW Government Digital Strategy, setting the direction for delivering key government missions through purposeful digital initiatives.
- Designed, implemented and managed the $2.1 billion Digital Restart Fund (DRF), driving significant outcomes through structured prioritisation across NSW Government objectives. An independent evaluation cited a return of $3 for every $1 invested through the fund.
- Established the Digital Transformation Board, comprising senior government executives, to oversee the fund's direction and ensure alignment with strategic objectives.
- Developed structured funding pathways (Seed, Scale, Tranche) to manage risk and promote investment agility.
- Lead the development of the State Digital Asset Reuse Policy, promoting the reuse of digital solutions across NSW Government agencies to enhance service delivery and avoid duplication.
- Conducted a comprehensive analysis of legacy systems within NSW Government, leading to a structured risk assessment approach and key recommendations for modernization.
- Accountable for the development of the AI Assurance framework and Expert Reference Group.
- Led strategic initiatives to enhance organizational effectiveness and operational efficiency.
- Developed and implemented policies aligning with organizational goals and industry standards.
Executive Director, ICT and Digital Assurance
Department of Customer Service, Digital NSW, NSW Government
01.2017 - 12.2019
- Developed and implemented ICT and Digital Assurance Framework to address significant technology program failures within NSW Government.
- Oversaw registration and risk tiering of over $6 billion in technology programs, ensuring appropriate assurance plans were in place, executing approximately 90 reviews in 2024.
- Established an expert reviewer panel of over 80 senior professionals to provide guidance and advice on key technology programs.
- Implemented monthly reporting mechanisms for programs, facilitating regular portfolio health assessments and escalations to senior leadership and governance groups.
- Achieved a 90% reduction in significant project overspend through the assurance function and implementation of digital investment funding pathways.
- Collaborated with Sydney University to develop a sponsor capability uplift masterclass, enhancing the ability of sponsors to drive benefits from technology investments.
- Established EPMO community of practice to share insights and learnings.
Head of Projects NAB Wealth Management
National Australia Bank
02.2014 - 01.2017
- Accountable for leadership and delivery of the NAB Wealth Management Portfolio, circa 200 – 300 million p.a.
- Manage Project Practice delivering large portfolio of work across diverse programs and projects including M&A, Regulatory reform and remediation programs, Insurance Transformation, Bank and Wealth Integration and Digital and Customer Programs of work.
- Accountable for engagement of sponsors on prioritised initiatives and mobilization of program, project professionals and establishing teams.
- Accountable to NAB Wealth CFO on Portfolio performance including tracking, performance, health and benefits.
- Developed Operating Model, Project Practice Management, PMO practice as a service, Integration with Business Analysis and Change Management practices. Implementation of workforce practices.
- Developed and implemented project coaching function to support senior executives.
- Developed Mobilisation services including business case facilitation and development, facilitation of delivery strategy and implementation.
- Project estimation services, including integration across technology capabilities.
- Development of delivery assurance including project set-up, in-flight reviews and post implementation reviews.
Various Roles
National Australia Bank
01.2000 - 01.2014
Skills
- Enterprise Portfolio Management
- Digital Transformation Leadership
- Strategic Planning & Execution
- Operating Model development
- Governance & Assurance Frameworks
- Senior Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
- Risk Management & Mitigation
- Investment Planning & Benefit Realization
- Enterprise Capability uplift
- Team Leadership & Capability Building
Timeline
Executive Director, Digital Strategy, Investment and Assurance
Department of Customer Service, Digital NSW, NSW Government
01.2019 - Current
Executive Director, ICT and Digital Assurance
Department of Customer Service, Digital NSW, NSW Government
01.2017 - 12.2019
Head of Projects NAB Wealth Management
National Australia Bank
02.2014 - 01.2017
Various Roles
National Australia Bank
01.2000 - 01.2014
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