I am a hands-on Project Manager with 15+ years of experience delivering complex, cross-functional initiatives, including data and analytics engineering projects. I excel at translating technical discussions into actionable work, running agile ceremonies, managing dependencies, and keeping stakeholders aligned. I partner with data engineers, product, and business leaders on data pipelines, integrations, compliance, and systems modernization. I thrive in remote, independent, fractional engagements and enjoy turning strategy into delivery.

Kirsten Finlayson

I am a hands-on Project Manager with 15+ years of experience delivering complex, cross-functional initiatives, including data and analytics engineering projects. I excel at translating technical discussions into actionable work, running agile ceremonies, managing dependencies, and keeping stakeholders aligned. I partner with data engineers, product, and business leaders on data pipelines, integrations, compliance, and systems modernization. I thrive in remote, independent, fractional engagements and enjoy turning strategy into delivery.

Available to hire

I am a hands-on Project Manager with 15+ years of experience delivering complex, cross-functional initiatives, including data and analytics engineering projects. I excel at translating technical discussions into actionable work, running agile ceremonies, managing dependencies, and keeping stakeholders aligned. I partner with data engineers, product, and business leaders on data pipelines, integrations, compliance, and systems modernization. I thrive in remote, independent, fractional engagements and enjoy turning strategy into delivery.

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Experience Level

Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate

Work Experience

Project Manager / Director of Operations at Sidechain Security
January 1, 2022 - Present
Led delivery of compliance and security initiatives requiring close collaboration with technical and data teams. Coordinated implementation efforts impacting data handling, monitoring, and reporting workflows. Tracked milestones, risks, and dependencies across engineering, product, and leadership teams. Improved delivery predictability through clearer planning and documentation.
Project Manager / Director of Operations at A2X Accounting
January 1, 2021 - Present
Managed cross-functional initiatives involving data protection, internal systems, and process automation. Coordinated work between technical teams and business stakeholders to implement compliance-driven data workflows. Documented processes and improved visibility into timelines, ownership, and dependencies. Supported remote teams across multiple time zones with clear communication and delivery tracking.
Project Manager / VP International Business Development at Cataneo
January 1, 2015 - January 1, 2024
Managed global, cross-functional projects including software implementations and system integrations. Coordinated requirements gathering between technical teams and international stakeholders. Oversaw delivery timelines and post-implementation handoffs.
Project Manager / Operations Lead at Independent Consultant
January 1, 2015 - Present
Deliver hands-on project management for growth-stage and established companies, supporting data, analytics, and technology initiatives from planning through delivery. Partner closely with engineers, analysts, and business stakeholders to define requirements and translate discussions into structured backlogs. Break down work into clear tasks with acceptance criteria, tracking progress and dependencies. Facilitate sprint planning, standups, retrospectives, and lightweight agile workflows tailored to team needs. Maintain simple, up-to-date project roadmaps and delivery plans. Proactively identify risks and blockers, driving resolution to keep projects moving. Provide concise, executive-ready status updates and documentation.

Education

Juris Doctor at University of Waikato
January 11, 2030 - February 2, 2026
Negotiation & Leadership at Harvard Law School
January 11, 2030 - February 2, 2026
Diploma, Computer Graphics & Website Design at Oxford House, London
January 11, 2030 - February 2, 2026

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Software & Internet