Ilias Papapostolou
Acquisition/Project Manager
Athens
Summary
Results-driven professional with a proven track record in project management, contract management, and leadership within a demanding military environment. Strong strategic acumen, complemented by an MBA, an MS in Operational Research and Decision Making, LSS, and PMP certifications. Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams, manage complex projects, identify market opportunities, and deliver successful outcomes within scope, budget, and schedule constraints. Exceptional communicator with adept problem-solving abilities, dedicated to driving organizational success. Adaptable and thrives in high-pressure environments.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
5
5
Certifications
2
2
Languages
Work History
Project/Acquisition Manager
HAGS/D2
10.2023 - Current
- Managed multi-million-euro defense acquisition projects, ensuring regulatory compliance and optimizing budget allocation for maximum efficiency and cost-effectiveness
- Applied operational research methodologies including MCDA to streamline acquisition processes and enhance evaluation frameworks improving operational efficiency
- Engaged with over 100 domestic and international defense companies to negotiate and oversee acquisition projects, securing long-term strategic alliances
- Managed over 300 corporate requests for weapon system presentations and demonstrations as the primary point of contact for the Hellenic Army General Staff, generating total revenue exceeding 250,000 € for the military
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to define requirements and oversee acquisition programs
- Implemented risk mitigation strategies to safeguard project timelines and budget
- Streamlined organizational procedures by eliminating redundant bureaucracy, resulting in a 30% reduction in processing time and enhanced overall performance
- Established and monitored key performance indicators (KPIs), such as SPI, CPI, and others, to track project progress, identify potential issues, and implement corrective actions
- Prepared regular project status reports for senior management, providing clear and concise updates on project performance
- Prepared and presented acquisition proposals in collaboration with other HAGS Directorates aligning acquisition strategies with national defense priorities
Army Engineer
Hellenic Army
08.2012 - 09.2023
- Managed the seamless operations of a diverse company of 40 to 60 personnel, ensuring excellence in training programs and optimizing mission readiness
- Formulated and executed operational plans, demonstrating strong resource management skills to exceed mission objectives
- Spearheaded the implementation and monitoring of key performance indicators (KPIs) for military personnel training and education as a Training Officer, enhancing operational effectiveness and readiness
- Directed military personnel in executing mission-critical projects, including combat positions, logistics support buildings, and other infrastructure, leveraging project management methodologies and tools to exceed performance targets and ensure on-time completion
- Managed the logistics and operational aspects of various army projects
- Oversaw 80+ contracts totaling over 500,000 € to meet unit and command requirements, ensuring timely resource delivery and seamless execution of operations
- Managed various organizational changes involving force restructuring, technological, operational, and infrastructure changes, ensuring smooth transition and clear communication
Education
Master - Operational Research and Decision Making/Defense and Safety
Technical University of Crete - Hellenic Army Academy
11.2021 - 9 2023
Master of Business Administration - Acquisition and Contract Management
Naval Postgraduate School
01.2021 - 6 2022
Bachelor - Military Science
Hellenic Army Academy
09.2007 - 7 2011
Skills
Project Coordination
Effective Resource Allocation
Stakeholder Engagement
Prioritization and Time Management
Organizational Change Leadership
Process Improvement Strategies
Contract Management
Partnership Development
Analytical Problem Solving
Analytical Problem Solving
Strategic Decision Making
Certification
PMP, Project Management Institute
Timeline
Project/Acquisition Manager
HAGS/D2
10.2023 - Current
Master - Operational Research and Decision Making/Defense and Safety
Technical University of Crete - Hellenic Army Academy
11.2021 - 9 2023
Master of Business Administration - Acquisition and Contract Management
Naval Postgraduate School
01.2021 - 6 2022
Army Engineer
Hellenic Army
08.2012 - 09.2023
Bachelor - Military Science
Hellenic Army Academy
09.2007 - 7 2011