- Direct a team of experienced data and software developers in the development, and realization of supported code architectures- Foster a collaborative, success-oriented, and accountable environment within the team- Mentor and guide team members, facilitating their professional growth and technical proficiency- Participate directly in the coding, testing, and debugging phases of the Software Development Lifecycle- Ensure adherence to established coding standards and software developing practices within the development team- Lead technical decision-making, serving as the primary point of contact for complex technical issues- Build and maintain trusted relationships with strategic partners and clients- Manage technical risks and opportunities- Perform code reviews, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, maintainable, and robust code- Keep updated with the latest technologies, trends, and best practices in data infrastructure and data management systems and integrate them into operations and activities

As the Development Manager for Webkinz, I spearheaded the revitalization of the brand by adapting it for a new generation using Unity 3D. My key responsibilities included:• Leading a technical team, managing daily operations, and ensuring timely delivery of technical projects.• Overseeing the implementation of security governance and rigorous secure coding standards, including regular code reviews to enhance software integrity.• Strengthening client code and server transactions to bolster security.• Driving the exploration and integration of new technologies, shaping the future direction of development.• Estimating project scopes, organizing tasks, and delegating work effectively across the team.• Executing strategic road map planning and management, while also participating in hands-on programming with Unity C# for about 50% of my role.• Leading numerous research and development initiatives and special projects to innovate and advance our technical capabilities.• Facilitating career development and training for team members, ensuring continuous professional growth within the department.• Serving as a vital link between the programming team and other departments to achieve creative and functional alignment.• Leveraging my full-stack development experience to address gaps in web development and other critical areas.This role has allowed me to blend my technical expertise with strategic leadership, delivering significant value and innovation to the Webkinz brand.

• Spearheaded the development of Webkinz Next with a compact team, successfully delivering all major features on schedule for launch on Android, iOS, and Windows Store, despite challenges posed by COVID-19 shutdowns. I led the creation of the majority of the arcade section, arcade games, and a significant portion of the UI/UX, fostering strong team collaboration in system and API design.• Served in multiple capacities—site lead, team lead, programmer, and architect—for Zoeysdesignacademy.com, a children’s fashion design world. I developed a comprehensive crafting system that allowed users to create and share clothing, participate in community voting, and receive rewards based on their designs’ popularity. Additionally, I optimized game code and UI for iOS and Android platforms, and led the programming team's efforts.• Provided continuous support and development for kingdomsccg.com, handling both client and server aspects. I independently managed the game’s porting and launch on Android, iOS, and Steam.• Contributed to the ongoing enhancement of webkinz.com, focusing on both the client and server to improve user experience and functionality.• Assisted in the development and maintenance of amazingworld.com, ensuring robust game client performance and user engagement.• Developed Nakamas.com, a social world for children centered around crafting and sharing friendship bracelets and gaming. I was involved in all project phases, from conception to deployment.• Supported the continual development and optimization of webkinzjr.com game client, enhancing interactive features and user engagement.These roles have allowed me to utilize and expand my expertise in technical leadership, software architecture, and team management across multiple platforms and environments.

I have provided expert IT consulting and development services to several prominent organizations in the Toronto area, enhancing their operational efficiencies and educational tools through customized software solutions.McDonald's• Developed engaging training websites and interactive games designed to enhance employee learning experiences and knowledge retention.Department of National Defence• Engineered an application that streamlined the approval process for college and university courses across Canada, aligning them with the Canadian Forces Training Requirements for the Canadian Defence Academy.• Managed all aspects of the project including requirements definition, timeline coordination, and consultations with subject matter experts, successfully completing the project within the stipulated timeframe.Ontario Motor Vehicle Institute of Canada• Created a dynamic online application for hosting a digital version of the institute's manual, facilitating easy access and printing for both students and teachers.• Implemented features allowing for the manual to be edited by instructors and subsequently sent back to publishers for updates, incorporating automated versioning to maintain the integrity and currency of the content.These positions have given me the opportunity to greatly improve operational and educational procedures through creative IT solutions, showcasing my ability to adapt and overcome difficult problems in a variety of contexts.

• Expertly led software development in AS3 and Flash, while also contributing to projects in PHP and ASP. As the primary developer for MSSQL and MySQL within the Toronto office, I became the key point of contact for rapid and reliable solutions to technical challenges.• Recognized for my strong programming background, I quickly assumed the role of a technical expert, consulting on project scopes, providing accurate estimates, and occasionally managing projects to ensure alignment with objectives and timelines.• Served as the technical lead for complex projects, guiding the office through advanced technical challenges and ensuring high-quality deliverables.Clients I have completed work for include:American ExpressCogeco Communications DHLHasbro Kraft CanadaExport Development Canada Ontario Provincial GovernmentHeart and Stroke Foundation IBMInstitution of Communication Agencies Petro Canada (now Suncor)WinnersThrough these engagements, I honed my technical skills and also demonstrated leadership in driving projects to successful completion in a fast-paced environment.

Ganz Interactive - Webkinz• Efficiently completed high-priority and high-profit projects, consistently meeting the rigorous demands of a 2-week release cycle. My contributions significantly enhanced project delivery and operational efficiency.• Designed and implemented a scalable crafting system for Webkinz World, optimizing the combination of items across the platform which boosted user engagement and system functionality.• Improved site performance through strategic optimizations, ensuring seamless user experiences during major releases and facilitating smooth transitions of content into production environments.• Consistently completed assignments ahead of schedule, demonstrating strong problem-solving skills and efficiency in task management.• Played a key role in training new developers, imparting essential knowledge on core APIs and systems, thus strengthening team capabilities and system coherence.• Led pioneering research and development efforts in 3D engine technology, laying the groundwork for future advancements in the company’s product offerings.• Managed comprehensive development responsibilities, from database management to client-side implementations, showcasing my versatility and technical proficiency across all layers of application development.Through these roles, I enhanced my technical skills and also demonstrated a capability in leading critical projects that drive business success and technological innovation.

Previous contracts with DND in 2005 and 2006.• Developed a web-based, database-driven solution to conduct feasibility studies for e-learning projects, enhancing decision-making processes and project planning efficiency.• Engineered a Flash media typing tutor course that garnered widespread recognition across the Canadian Forces and nationally, significantly raising the profile of our educational tools.• Spearheaded research into the application of virtual worlds for training within the Canadian Forces, exploring innovative methods to enhance training effectiveness and engagement.• Designed user interfaces for multiple projects, focusing on usability and aesthetic appeal to improve user experience and interaction.• Actively participated in refining the project management processes, contributing to more streamlined operations and increased project delivery efficiency in the office.• Routinely assisted designers in debugging and problem-solving, ensuring smooth development processes and successful implementation of solutions across various projects.These experiences have allowed me to significantly contribute to technological innovations and process improvements, demonstrating my commitment to excellence and my ability to adapt and solve complex challenges in dynamic environments.

• Led the development, execution, and analysis of detailed reports on customers, products, and sales, providing critical insights to upper management that supported strategic decision-making.• Maintained high standards of data integrity within the database, promptly identifying and rectifying discrepancies to ensure the accuracy of business-critical information.• Designed and implemented small applications to enhance the efficiency of day-to-day operations, streamlining processes and improving overall productivity.This role allowed me to leverage my analytical and technical skills to drive improvements in data management and operational efficiency, directly contributing to the organization's success.