Crafting an Agile IT Strategy: Sarfraz Shaikh on Risk Management and Driving Continuous Improvement

In this episode…

Sarfraz Shaikh shares his unique journey from working in marketing and communications to leading the IT department at One Mesa. With an educational background in IT, Sarfraz was able to leverage his technical knowledge and communication skills to help shape the company’s IT strategies during a time of growth. Starting in a loosely structured environment, Sarfraz played a crucial role in developing a more formalized IT department, building a roadmap for the company’s hardware, software, and cybersecurity needs. He emphasizes the importance of alignment between IT and business objectives, especially in an industry as dynamic as oil and gas, where One Mesa operates across three distinct business units. Sarfraz also dives into the value of frameworks like the ISO 9001 certification and the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, explaining how they provide a structured approach to managing risk and improving processes across the organization. He describes how these standards ensure not only compliance but also foster continuous improvement, pushing the company to measure and demonstrate real results. In addition, Sarfraz discusses the concept of “strategic agility,” where IT teams must stay nimble and responsive to rapidly changing technological landscapes. He highlights the intersection of agility and compliance, noting that IT departments must act as enablers, supporting the company’s growth while maintaining strong cybersecurity measures. By understanding industry trends and focusing on collaboration across departments, Sarfraz has been able to implement solutions that drive efficiency and security while adapting to new challenges.