Dan Paganelis is a seasoned management executive with over 23 years of expertise in strategic program management, digital transformation, and product innovation. With a unique background in Enterprise PMO development and agile digital deployment, Dan has consistently demonstrated a strong ability to deliver advanced technology solutions that drive operational efficiency and cost savings across global markets. Known for his dynamic leadership style and depth of knowledge, he has established himself as a trusted figure in the field, delivering value to organizations through insightful program management and technological foresight.
Currently, Dan is engaged as an Independent Consultant with Kellanova, where he provides expert guidance on strategic program management initiatives. His focus is on aligning business goals with technology solutions that streamline processes, enhance collaboration, and ensure cost-effectiveness. With a hands-on approach, Dan works closely with leadership teams to deploy impactful strategies, demonstrating his commitment to innovation and operational excellence.
Previously, Dan served as Senior Director of the Global PMO at Kellanova, where he led key strategic initiatives in global growth and supply chain operations. His leadership was instrumental in the successful execution of the company’s “Deploy for Growth” strategy, which included global platform rollouts, supply chain digitization, and an innovative data strategy council. His role involved direct oversight of complex program initiatives, such as company separation projects and the deployment of digital tools, showcasing his expertise in managing large-scale transformations and driving cost efficiencies.
Dan’s tenure at McDonald’s Corporation as Director of Program Management for Global & U.S. Digital further exemplified his skills in digital transformation. At McDonald’s, he was pivotal in establishing the U.S. Digital PMO and deploying digital customer solutions like the McDonald’s mobile app, which saw over 8 million downloads and generated $20M in monthly revenue. He led digital integration efforts for mobile ordering and contactless payment solutions, establishing McDonald’s as a front-runner in digital customer engagement.
At Redbox Automated Retail, LLC, Dan directed technical analysis and enterprise platform strategy, strengthening systems integration and digital infrastructure. He championed the development of a product governance process between product management and technology, enabling more seamless collaboration across teams and ensuring the successful rollout of key technology initiatives. This experience underscored his ability to bridge strategic and technical functions, providing organizations with a clear path to technology optimization.
Earlier in his career, Dan honed his expertise at Accenture, where he worked as a Product Manager. In this role, he managed unified communications and collaboration tools, including Microsoft SharePoint, Cisco Telepresence, and Office Communicator. His work at Accenture laid a strong foundation in product strategy, infrastructure outsourcing, and technical project management, equipping him with the skills and insights that would serve him in executive roles at future organizations.
Dan’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Information Systems from the University of Iowa, Tippie College of Business. This formal training in information systems and business management has informed his approach to technology integration and strategic program development, supporting his dedication to fostering innovation and value creation within organizations.
In addition to his extensive professional experience, Dan is committed to continuous learning and development. He holds a SCRUM certification and has been endorsed by numerous colleagues for his skills in agile methodologies, program management, and business intelligence. These endorsements are a testament to his ability to lead with both technical acumen and an adaptive, agile mindset.
Throughout his career, Dan has been recognized for his ability to foster collaboration, build high-performance teams, and lead complex transformations with a focus on people and process improvement. His leadership style emphasizes accountability, respect, and positive engagement, creating an environment where team members are empowered to deliver their best work. Dan’s drive to mentor others and lead by example has established him as a respected figure within his industry.
Character:
Dan is known for his integrity, adaptability, and commitment to delivering results, earning him the respect and trust of colleagues and stakeholders alike. His approachable and results-driven leadership style fosters a positive work environment that motivates teams to excel.
Knowledge:
With extensive expertise in program management, digital transformation, and agile methodologies, Dan applies his deep technical understanding to implement high-impact technology solutions. His background across multiple industries positions him as a knowledgeable leader in both operational efficiency and technology-driven growth.
Strategic:
Dan combines visionary leadership with practical execution, aligning business and technology strategies to drive growth, improve efficiencies, and reduce costs. His ability to navigate complex transformations makes him a valuable asset in developing and implementing forward-thinking, sustainable solutions.
Communication:
Dan is recognized for his clarity and inclusivity, consistently fostering strong stakeholder relationships through effective communication. His approach emphasizes transparency and collaboration, ensuring alignment and engagement across cross-functional teams.
