Michael Stefanavage
Corporate User (The Vanguard Group, Inc.)
Professional Role & Oracle Products Used
I am currently a Product Manager at Vanguard, a position I have held for the last four years. I am responsible for the operational stability and strategic roadmap of our Oracle Enterprise EPM Cloud Applications and have also managed Fusion Cloud ERP. Previously, I was a lead in Vanguard’s cloud transformation program, focusing on the data conversion from our legacy PeopleSoft ERP system. My extensive experience with PeopleSoft, acquired over 10 years through regular upgrades and tailored enhancements, led to my selection for this role.
I engage with stakeholders in both Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) and accounting functions. My background includes a prior role as an FP&A Analyst, providing me with valuable insights as a user of the systems I now manage. This diverse experience equips me to maximize the value of our products effectively.
What makes the OATUG mission meaningful to you?
As a Product Manager in the Oracle Applications space, my primary objective is to maximize the value of the products I manage. I find OATUG’s mission particularly compelling because it aligns with my goal of delivering value. In my role, I collaborate closely with technology users to understand their needs and desired outcomes. Similarly, OATUG fosters community connections, facilitating the exchange of ideas and product knowledge to promote mutual growth and learning. I am a strong advocate for uniting individuals to address and resolve common technology challenges. OATUG’s mission effectively encourages its members to look beyond their individual concerns and harness the resources and tools offered by the user group for collective benefit.
Why are you running for the Board, and what skills, connections, resources and expertise do you have to offer the organization?
I am seeking a position on the OATUG Board because I recognize the significant impact a global community can have on enhancing tools and resources. As a Board member, I aim to contribute by fostering greater collaboration and promoting content that resonates with OATUG members. Throughout my career, I have cultivated strong relationships with both technical and functional users of Oracle technology, utilizing these connections to share and implement ideas that enhance value for both my organization and my professional network. My extensive experience with cross-functional teams has equipped me with the skills in listening, interpreting, negotiating, adapting, and leveraging the strengths of team members to achieve shared objectives.
Other OATUG and Volunteer Experience:
As the OATUG ambassador for Vanguard, I actively promote the use of OATUG resources and events among our users. I regularly participate in EPM & ERP Cloud Weeks, review newsletters, and have attended Ascend and OCW conferences in previous years. These resources have significantly enhanced my performance as a product manager, enabling me to better support clients in achieving their objectives. I am a top contributor to Cloud Customer Connect for sharing innovative ideas and collaborating with fellow customers and Oracle on topics affecting the wider user community. I’ve proposed and supported that have been incorporated into Oracle’s roadmap.
Beyond my professional role, I volunteered as the Treasurer for our district’s Home and School Association, where I organized events fostering student engagement and raising funds to support the district. As a board, we orchestrated several capital improvements and provided financial assistance to students in need.