Adnan Surani

Adnan Altaf is a seasoned professional in grants management, boasting over a decade of diverse experience at Aga Khan University in Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan. His career trajectory at this prestigious institution reflects his dedication to financial oversight, research administration, and a commitment to driving research success. Adnan began his journey at Aga Khan University with a focus on finance, where he spent seven years honing his expertise in financial management and analysis. This foundational period equipped him with a robust understanding of financial systems, budgeting, and resource allocation, which would later become invaluable in his grants management role. In the subsequent phase of his career, Adnan transitioned to the realm of grants oversight and research administration. For nearly two years as a Research Specialist, he demonstrated exceptional skills in negotiating grant checklists, advising Principal Investigators (PIs) on project administration, and liaising between PIs and the Office of Research to ensure timely resolution of issues. His role involved conducting regular due diligence sessions for PIs and senior staff, underscoring his commitment to maintaining high standards of compliance and efficiency. Adnan's competence and dedication led to his promotion to Manager in February 2024. In this role, he has been instrumental in conducting thorough pre-award grant package reviews, coordinating conditional approvals for projects with tight deadlines, and developing efficient internal dashboards for proposal tracking. His ability to advise on required documentation and assist in compiling submission packages for sponsors has been pivotal in streamlining the grant submission process. Adnan's leadership extends to overseeing the PURE Management Module and maintaining Excel Database records, ensuring that the system's efficiency is continuously improved through collaboration with the IT department. His academic background further bolsters his professional acumen. Adnan holds a master’s degree and is nearing the completion of his ACCA UK certification, a testament to his commitment to continuous learning and professional development. His proficiency in English, coupled with his skills in vocabulary, English literature, and catering to English language learners, adds a unique dimension to his professional portfolio. Beyond his professional achievements, Adnan is a proactive individual with certifications in Grants Management in Nutrition, Advanced Training on Research Grants Management, Investment Risk Management, and Leadership Skills for Supervisors. These certifications underscore his holistic approach to professional development and his readiness to tackle multifaceted challenges in the field of grants management. In summary, Adnan Altaf stands out as an accomplished grants management professional whose career at Aga Khan University epitomizes dedication, expertise, and leadership. His journey from financial management to a pivotal role in research administration highlights his adaptability and commitment to fostering research success. Adnan continues to be a driving force in his field, leveraging his extensive experience and qualifications to excel and inspire.