About me

My name is Danut Istrate and I am an experienced IT professional, certified in Business Analysis, with a history of working across multiple industries in the Digital Marketing and Service Management areas. I am skilled in ServiceNow / ServiceOne, Agile Methodology, Web Analytics, Digital Strategies, Web/UX/UI Design and new hire training.

My work experience in Business Analysis

Business Process Analyst at Solvay – 9 months
Focus: ServiceNow/ServiceOne, ITIL, Google Workspace, CMDB, LucidChart, Miro, BPMN

As part of the Data, Analytics & AI Platform, my role revolves around providing ITSM Business Process Analysis services for Solvay S.A., a prominent European chemical company headquartered in Belgium. Here are some of the responsibilities I handle:

  1. Stakeholder Engagement: I regularly meet with key stakeholders to understand the organization’s objectives and align my analysis efforts with their strategic goals. By setting clear goals, I could ensure that my work contributes directly to the company’s success.
  2. Data Gathering and Analysis: I meticulously collect and analyze data to map existing processes, aiming to gain deep insights into the intricacies of the company’s operations. This thorough examination enables me to identify potential areas for improvement and optimization.
  3. Report Creation: Based on the insights gained from my analysis, I create comprehensive reports that provide actionable recommendations. These reports serve as valuable resources for decision-making, helping the company enhance its business processes effectively.
  4. Process Change Management: I take charge of managing the process change initiatives, ensuring a smooth transition while minimizing any disruptions to the company’s day-to-day operations. Effective change management is crucial for successful process improvements.
  5. Process Redesign Workshops: I lead engaging process redesign workshops, fostering collaboration and innovation among stakeholders. These workshops serve as platforms for brainstorming, problem-solving, and developing optimized business processes.
  6. Business User Education: I am responsible for educating the business users who are responsible for managing and operating the company’s business processes. By providing them with the necessary knowledge and skills, I empower them to drive process excellence within their respective roles.
  7. Process Performance Monitoring: I closely monitor and measure process performance, constantly evaluating its effectiveness. Through this ongoing monitoring, I can provide valuable feedback and insights, enabling the company to make informed decisions and implement continuous improvements.
  8. Process Requirement Elicitation: I facilitate process workshops that involve eliciting process requirements and liaising with users. By actively engaging with users, we ensure that the documented processes accurately reflect the needs and expectations of the organization.
  9. Business Process Documentation: Leveraging my expertise in business process modeling notations (BPMN), I meticulously document the processes in a clear and standardized manner. This documentation serves as a valuable reference for the organization, enhancing transparency and facilitating effective communication.
  10. Service Catalogue Updates: By mapping the processes, I identify the needs for updating the service catalogue. Leveraging my insights, I implement updates to the ServiceOne catalogue, ensuring that it accurately reflects the current and optimized business processes.

In summary, my role encompasses a broad range of responsibilities, all aimed at optimizing business processes and driving operational efficiency for Solvay S.A.

Business Analyst at Adecco – 1 year 8 months
Focus: Azure DevOps, Confluence, Miro, Microsoft 365, UML

In my role as a Business Analyst in Solution Development, I have had the opportunity to provide valuable business analysis services for a prominent HR company operating across three continents. Here are some of the key responsibilities I undertake:

  1. Documenting Business Requirements: Leveraging my expertise in Unified Modeling Language (UML), I effectively capture and document business requirements. This includes creating user and system workflows that serve as comprehensive references for the development and implementation of solutions.
  2. Translating High-Level Requirements: I possess the expertise to translate high-level functional requirements, such as Epics and Features, into detailed functional and technical requirements in the form of User Stories and Story Points. This enables the teams to have a clear understanding of the specific tasks and deliverables required.
  3. Backlog Prioritization: I prioritize the backlog of tasks based on their business values, ensuring that the most critical and impactful items receive the necessary attention and resources. This approach allows for efficient resource allocation and focuses efforts on delivering maximum value.
  4. Managing the Backlog: I maintain and manage the backlog using measurable Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). This allows for effective tracking of progress, identification of bottlenecks, and prompt resolution of any issues that may arise during the development process.
  5. Methodology Application: I apply various methodologies such as Agile and SCRUM to ensure the smooth execution of projects. By leveraging these methodologies, I promote collaboration, iterative development, and continuous improvement throughout the project lifecycle.
  6. Business and UX Design: I actively participate in the business and user experience (UX) design of new processes. By combining my understanding of business requirements with a user-centric approach, I contribute to the development of intuitive and efficient processes that meet both business objectives and user needs.
  7. Maintaining Successful Relationships: I prioritize building and maintaining successful relationships with stakeholders, both internal and external. This includes effective communication, fostering trust, and actively engaging with stakeholders to ensure their needs and expectations are met.

In summary, my role as a Business Analyst in Solution Development encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities. By applying my expertise in UML, translating requirements, prioritizing backlogs, and leveraging various methodologies, I contribute to the successful delivery of solutions across multiple continents.

Business Analyst at SITA – 1 year
Focus: ServiceNow, ITIL, Confluence, Draw.io, Microsoft 365, UAT, BPMN, UML

As a Business Analyst for the Digital Transformation project at SITA, a prominent Aerospace Company, my role primarily focuses on driving IT Service Management initiatives using the ServiceNow platform. Here are some of the key responsibilities I undertake:

  1. Requirement Elicitation and Elaboration: I engage with stakeholders to gather and refine requirements for IT Service Management (ITSM) and ITIL projects. By actively listening and collaborating, I ensure a comprehensive understanding of the project goals and objectives.
  2. Business Process Modeling: I utilize industry-standard modeling techniques such as BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation) and UML (Unified Modeling Language) to map and document business processes. This approach enables me to identify areas of improvement and generate value for our customers.
  3. Salesforce Basic Administration: I handle basic administration tasks within the Salesforce platform. This includes configuring settings, managing user access, and maintaining data integrity to support smooth operations.
  4. Onboarding New Products: I facilitate the onboarding process for new products onto the ServiceNow platform. This involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, configuring the platform to align with product requirements, and ensuring a seamless integration.
  5. Project Discovery Activities: I actively participate in project discovery activities, where I model customer journeys, identify and define features, explore solution options, assess relevant technologies, and determine the path to production. Additionally, I identify and implement appropriate tooling to support project delivery.
  6. On-Site/Remote Workshops: I conduct workshops with stakeholders, both on-site and remotely, to facilitate collaboration, gather insights, and align project objectives. These workshops serve as a platform for knowledge sharing, requirements validation, and fostering strong stakeholder engagement.
  7. User Acceptance Testing (UAT): I oversee the UAT phase of projects, where I collaborate with users to test and validate the implemented solutions. This ensures that the delivered product meets the defined requirements and functions as expected.
  8. Requirements Risk Management: I proactively identify and manage risks associated with project requirements. By conducting thorough risk assessments and implementing mitigation strategies, I mitigate potential obstacles and ensure smooth project execution.
  9. Scope Management: I am responsible for managing the project scope, ensuring that it remains aligned with the defined objectives and requirements. This involves assessing change requests, conducting impact analysis, and making informed decisions to maintain project focus.

In summary, as a Business Analyst for the Digital Transformation project at SITA, I play a vital role in driving ITSM initiatives using the ServiceNow platform. Through requirement elicitation, business process modeling, Salesforce administration, onboarding new products, project discovery, workshops, UAT testing, requirements risk management, and scope management, I contribute to the successful implementation of transformative projects in the aerospace industry.

Business and Technical Analyst at MSD 3 years 6 months
Focus: Agile, Six Sigma, Confluence, Jira, Draw.io, Microsoft 365, UX, UML

As a Business and Technical Analyst at MSD, a leading Pharma Company, my role in the Digital Marketing and Channels organization encompasses a range of responsibilities. Here are some key aspects of my position:

  1. Collaboration with Go To Market Team and Country IT: I work closely with the Go To Market Team and country IT teams to deliver effective capabilities to our clients. By fostering collaboration and aligning with business objectives, I contribute to the successful implementation of projects.
  2. UX and UI Design: I am involved in the design of user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) solutions. By applying my expertise in UX/UI design principles, I strive to create solutions that are intuitive, user-friendly, and align with industry best practices.
  3. Business Process Design: I drive business process design by leveraging methodologies such as Agile, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence techniques. This approach ensures efficiency, effectiveness, and continuous improvement in our processes.
  4. Roadmap Creation and UML/BPMN Diagrams: I create roadmaps and utilize UML/BPMN diagrams to provide clear visual representations of our proposed solutions. This aids in effective communication, requirement prioritization, and coordination with the application development team.
  5. Collaboration with Business Partners: I collaborate with both local and global business partners to understand their current and desired business processes and requirements. By actively engaging with stakeholders, I ensure that our solutions align with their goals and address their needs.
  6. Requirements Management: I take ownership of managing the requirements backlog, prioritizing requirements, and coordinating communication among stakeholders. This helps ensure that the development team has a clear understanding of the project goals and requirements.
  7. Documentation of System Operating Procedures: I am responsible for documenting system operating procedures, enabling effective knowledge transfer and ensuring consistent execution of processes.
  8. Utilized Tools: In carrying out my responsibilities, I work with various tools such as Salesforce CRM, Confluence, JIRA, and Microsoft 365. These tools enable efficient collaboration, documentation, and project management.

In summary, as a Business and Technical Analyst at MSD, I collaborate with cross-functional teams, contribute to UX/UI design, drive business process design, create roadmaps and diagrams, collaborate with business partners, manage requirements, and document system operating procedures. By utilizing tools and methodologies, I ensure effective project delivery and alignment with business goals.

My work experience in Digital Marketing

Digital Marketing Manager at Arriello – 2 years
Focus: SEO, UX, Web Design, Adobe XD, WordPress, Google Analytics

In my role as the Digital Marketing Manager at Arriello, my primary responsibility is to develop and implement effective marketing strategies to promote the company’s Pharmacovigilance, Regulatory Affairs and Quality services. This entails a range of activities aimed at enhancing our online presence, driving lead generation, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. Here are some of the key responsibilities I handle:

  1. Online Presence Management: I oversee the management of our online presence, ensuring that our digital platforms effectively represent our services and brand. This includes maintaining our website, social media channels, and other online assets to drive engagement and visibility.
  2. Content Creation: I am responsible for creating compelling and engaging content that aligns with our marketing objectives. This involves crafting informative articles, blog posts, and other relevant materials to establish thought leadership and attract our target audience.
  3. Search Engine Optimization (SEO): I implement SEO strategies to enhance our online visibility and improve organic search rankings. By conducting keyword research, optimizing website content, and managing backlink strategies, we aim to increase our website’s visibility to potential customers.
  4. Analytics and Reporting: I utilize various analytics tools to track and analyze website performance, user behavior, and campaign effectiveness. Through data-driven insights, I generate reports and recommendations to optimize our digital marketing efforts.
  5. Salesforce CRM Management: I handle the management of contacts and opportunities within the Salesforce CRM system. This involves maintaining accurate customer data, tracking interactions, and leveraging the CRM to nurture leads and support sales initiatives.
  6. Site Optimization: I continuously work on improving our website through analytics, competitive analysis, and best practices. This includes implementing advanced SEO techniques, tracking and analyzing SEM data, and executing site changes to enhance user experience and conversion rates.
  7. Campaign Delivery and Integration: I collaborate with Marketing Operations to execute integrated campaigns and ensure seamless integration with our automation systems and CRM. This involves coordinating assets, managing visitor data, and optimizing campaign delivery.
  8. Collaboration with Designers and Content Coordinators: I work closely with Graphic Designers to ensure that all visual assets and content align with our brand guidelines and are updated to reflect the latest versions. Additionally, I provide guidance to Content Coordinators on SEO best practices, content creation, and linking strategies.
  9. Monitoring Digital Trends: I actively identify emerging digital trends and technologies that have the potential to improve conversions and enhance our marketing efforts. By staying informed and implementing innovative solutions, we can stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
  10. Conversion and Engagement Optimization: I focus on increasing conversion rates and enhancing user engagement across our digital platforms. This involves implementing A/B testing, analyzing user behavior, and making data-driven decisions to optimize user experience and drive desired actions.
  11. Reporting and Performance Metrics: I regularly prepare and present comprehensive reports and dashboards that cover key performance metrics, including website traffic, engagement, SEO performance, and content effectiveness. These reports provide insights into our digital marketing initiatives and guide future strategies.
  12. Site Safety and Uptime Monitoring: I ensure the safety, security, and uninterrupted functioning of our website. By monitoring and addressing potential issues promptly, I maintain a seamless user experience and safeguard our online reputation.
  13. Iterative Site Improvement: I continually strive to improve and optimize our website through iterative enhancements. This involves analyzing user feedback, conducting user experience (UX) research, and implementing changes that enhance usability and overall site performance.
  14. UX and UI Design: I actively contribute to the design process of our new company website, focusing on user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design principles. By collaborating with designers and leveraging industry best practices, we aim to create a visually appealing and user-friendly website.

In summary, as the Digital Marketing Manager at Arriello, I undertake a diverse range of responsibilities to develop and implement effective marketing strategies. Through activities such as managing our online presence, content creation, SEO, paid advertising, analytics, and reporting, I strive to drive lead generation, enhance user experience, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

Website Administrator and UX Designer at Arriello – 1 year
Focus: SEO, UX, Web Design, Adobe XD, WordPress, Google Analytics

In my role as a Website Administrator at Arriello, I am entrusted with various responsibilities to ensure the smooth functioning and optimization of our website. Here are some of the key tasks I handle:

  1. Site Safety, Security, and Uptime: I prioritize the safety, security, and uninterrupted operation of our website. By implementing robust measures and staying vigilant, I ensure the protection of user data and maintain the site’s availability.
  2. Performance Reporting: I regularly report on key site performance metrics using tools like Google Analytics. By monitoring these metrics, I gain insights into user behavior, traffic patterns, and other relevant data to assess and improve the site’s performance.
  3. Site Improvement and Optimization: I am actively involved in enhancing the site’s performance through iterative improvements. This includes analyzing user feedback, conducting usability tests, and implementing changes to optimize user experience and achieve better site performance.
  4. Content Management: I am responsible for managing all site content, including downloads, text, and visuals. By ensuring that the content is accurate, up-to-date, and aligns with our brand guidelines, I enhance the overall user experience.
  5. SEO Implementation: I implement the latest SEO strategies, analyzing competition and industry trends. This involves optimizing site elements, such as metadata, keywords, and URLs, to improve search engine rankings and increase organic traffic.

In addition to my role as a Website Administrator, I also contribute as an UX Designer. Here are some of the tasks I undertake in this capacity:

  1. User-Centered Design: I create designs that prioritize the needs and preferences of users by thoroughly understanding business requirements, customer feedback, user journeys, and usability findings. This approach ensures that our designs align with user expectations and enhance their overall experience.
  2. Iterative Design Process: I follow an iterative design process that involves creating user flows, wireframes, prototypes, and sitemaps. By continuously refining and iterating on these designs, I ensure that they effectively address user needs and align with business objectives.
  3. Keeping Up with Best Practices: I stay up-to-date with the latest best practices and industry standards in UX design. This includes monitoring emerging trends, exploring new design techniques, and incorporating innovative approaches to deliver exceptional user experiences.

In summary, as a Website Administrator, my focus lies in ensuring the safety, performance, and optimization of our website. Additionally, as an UX Designer, I create user-centered designs and stay updated with the latest industry practices. By combining these roles, I contribute to creating a seamless and engaging digital experience for our users.

Web Front-End Engineer at Apprise Software – 11 months
Focus: UX/UI, SEO, CSS3, HTML5, Photoshop, ASP.NET

In my role as a Web Front-End Engineer at Apprise Software, I am entrusted with various responsibilities that encompass UX/UI design, web design, and graphic design. Here’s an overview of my key areas of focus:

  1. UX/UI Designer: One aspect of my role involves developing intuitive, usable, and engaging digital experiences for our corporate website. I work closely with product owners and business stakeholders to understand their requirements and translate them into compelling user experiences. This includes creating user experience guidelines that ensure consistency across our digital products. To communicate these experiences effectively, I utilize tools such as user flows, sitemaps, wireframes, and prototypes.
  2. Web Designer: As a Web Designer, I am involved in the entire process of designing and creating our website. This includes drawing up detailed specifications, designing responsive page layouts with a mobile-first approach, and coding using technologies such as ASP.NET, CSS3, HTML5, JavaScript, and jQuery. Additionally, I contribute to content editing, code debugging, and web page redesign. I also conduct thorough testing to ensure the website functions smoothly and delivers an optimal user experience. Staying up-to-date with current design trends is an essential part of my role.
  3. Graphic Designer: In my capacity as a Graphic Designer, I play a vital role in developing design briefs based on thorough research and data analysis. I think creatively to generate innovative ideas and concepts that align with the project requirements. I also create rough sketches to visualize design concepts. Utilizing design programs such as InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, and Fireworks, I bring these ideas to life. By keeping abreast of technological advancements and design trends, I ensure that our visual assets remain modern and impactful.

In summary, as a Web Front-End Engineer at Apprise Software, I strive to deliver exceptional user experiences, maintain responsive web layouts, and produce visually appealing design assets that align with industry trends.

Freelance Web Designer – 10 years
Focus: UX/UI, SEO, CSS, HTML, Photoshop

As a freelance Web Designer with over 10 years of experience, my expertise lies in creating impactful digital experiences that blend stunning visuals with user-centric design principles. Throughout my career, I have honed my skills in SEO, UX, and UI to deliver exceptional results for my clients. Here’s an overview of my key responsibilities and areas of focus:

  1. SEO Optimization: I possess a deep understanding of search engine optimization techniques and strategies. By implementing best practices, conducting keyword research, and optimizing website content, I ensure that my clients’ websites rank higher in search engine results and attract organic traffic.
  2. User Experience (UX) Design: Creating intuitive and engaging user experiences is at the core of my design philosophy. I conduct thorough user research, develop user personas, and map out user journeys to craft seamless interactions that meet users’ needs. I utilize tools such as wireframes, prototypes, and user flows to visually communicate and iterate on UX design concepts.
  3. User Interface (UI) Design: My expertise in UI design allows me to create visually appealing interfaces that enhance user satisfaction. Through careful attention to color schemes, typography, layout, and interactive elements, I craft user interfaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also intuitive and user-friendly.
  4. Responsive Design: I specialize in developing responsive websites that adapt seamlessly across different devices and screen sizes. By leveraging the latest front-end development technologies, such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript frameworks, I ensure that my designs are optimized for mobile, tablet, and desktop experiences.
  5. Collaboration and Client Communication: As a freelance web designer, I value effective collaboration and open communication with my clients. I work closely with clients to understand their unique requirements, translate their business goals into design solutions, and provide regular updates on project progress. This collaborative approach ensures that the final product aligns with their vision and meets their expectations.
  6. Keeping Up with Industry Trends: Staying abreast of the latest design trends, emerging technologies, and industry best practices is a priority for me. I continuously expand my skill set and explore new tools and techniques to deliver cutting-edge web design solutions that exceed client expectations.

In summary, as a freelance web designer with a strong focus on SEO, UX, and UI, I bring over 10 years of experience to the table. Through my expertise in optimizing websites for search engines, designing intuitive user experiences, creating visually appealing user interfaces, and ensuring responsive design, I have consistently delivered exceptional results for my clients. With a client-centric approach and a commitment to staying ahead of industry trends, I am well-equipped to provide impactful web design solutions for diverse projects.

Getting Technical

Lync Engineer at AT&T – 1 year
Focus: Lync, Microsoft Exchange, VMware, Powershell

In my role as a Lync Engineer at AT&T, I am responsible for providing consultative technical guidance to customers throughout the entire lifecycle of Microsoft Lync. Here are some key aspects of my responsibilities:

  1. Consultative Technical Guidance: I offer expert advice and guidance to customers on various aspects of scoping, design, installation, and configuration of Microsoft Lync. By understanding their unique requirements, I assist in developing tailored solutions that meet their specific communication needs.
  2. Advanced-Level Expertise: I possess in-depth knowledge and expertise in Microsoft Lync 2010/2013. Leveraging this knowledge, I perform architectural designs for Lync deployments and meticulously document the configuration details to ensure accurate implementation.
  3. High Availability and Disaster Recovery Solutions: I design and deploy solutions that provide high availability and disaster recovery capabilities for customers. This involves implementing strategies and technologies to ensure uninterrupted communication services in the event of system failures or disasters.
  4. Monitoring and Capacity Planning: I monitor the availability and correct functioning of Lync to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, I analyze server system utilization and plan capacity upgrades to accommodate increasing user demands and future growth.
  5. Maintenance, Upgrades, and Disaster Recovery: I meticulously plan, coordinate, and execute maintenance activities, upgrades, patches, and disaster recovery tests with customers in the field. This ensures that their Lync environments remain up-to-date, secure, and resilient.

In summary, as a Lync Engineer at AT&T, I provide technical expertise in scoping, design, installation, and configuration of Microsoft Lync. I perform architectural designs, deploying high availability and disaster recovery solutions, monitoring system performance, and coordinating maintenance activities. By delivering exceptional technical guidance and support, I contribute to the successful implementation and operation of Microsoft Lync solutions for our valued customers.

First-Level Support Technical Specialist at IBM – 2 years
Focus: IBM Systems, Oracle, Linux, Unix, Windows Server

In my role as a First-Level Support Technical Specialist at IBM, I have a range of responsibilities that contribute to the efficient functioning of our technical support operations. Here are the key areas I focus on:

  1. Alert Management: I actively manage alerts generated by various systems and applications, ensuring prompt attention and appropriate action. By closely monitoring these alerts, I help maintain the stability and performance of our IT infrastructure.
  2. Ticket and Change Management: I handle the end-to-end management of tickets and changes, ensuring that they are properly logged, tracked, and resolved within agreed-upon service level agreements. This involves accurately documenting and updating ticket information, facilitating communication between stakeholders, and driving timely resolutions.
  3. Problem Determination and Dispatching: I engage in problem determination activities to identify the root causes of issues reported by users. Based on my analysis, I dispatch the incidents to the relevant support teams or subject matter experts for further investigation and resolution.
  4. First-Level Administration: I provide first-level administration support across multiple competencies, including system administration, hardware management, and application maintenance. This involves handling user account management, system configurations, and addressing basic technical issues.
  5. Production Control: I take responsibility for production control activities, such as managing batch processes and job control. By closely monitoring and managing these processes, I ensure smooth and efficient execution of critical business operations.
  6. Escalation Initiating and Tracking: When incidents or issues require escalation, I initiate the escalation process and track the progress until resolution. This involves collaborating with higher-level support teams and maintaining effective communication channels to ensure timely resolution and customer satisfaction.
  7. Alerting Control via Reports: I utilize reporting mechanisms to monitor and control alerting systems. By analyzing reports and identifying trends or anomalies, I proactively address potential issues and make informed decisions to optimize system performance.

In summary, as a First-Level Support Technical Specialist at IBM, I handle alert management, ticket and change management, problem determination and dispatching, first-level administration, production control, escalation management, and alerting control through reports. By effectively managing these responsibilities, I contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of our technical support operations.

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