Zoho CRM Implementation Specialist — M365 Integration Workflow Configuration (Client-Facing Role)

## Project Overview We are a managed IT services provider posting on behalf of our client — a professional cybersecurity advisory and GRC consulting firm. The client operates on Microsoft 365 (Standard licensing) and has selected Zoho CRM as their primary sales platform. The implementation has been underway for over a year with limited progress. A new CISO has reset the project plan and is ready to move — but needs a qualified Zoho specialist to get this done. The original go-live target has already passed. We need someone who can hit the ground running. --- ## Scope of Work **Phase 1 — Assessment & Cleanup** - Review current Zoho CRM configuration and identify gaps - Audit existing workflow drafts against actual Zoho capabilities - Build a clear implementation roadmap **Phase 2 — Core Configuration** - Configure modules, fields, layouts, and pipeline stages to match the client's sales workflow (lead capture through close) - Set up user roles and permissions (fewer than 20 users; 1 active salesperson currently) - Configure email integration with M365 via OAuth/Microsoft Graph API - Sync calendar and contacts between M365 and Zoho CRM - Implement SSO between M365 and Zoho CRM **Phase 3 — Workflow Automation (Priority Area)** - This phase is critical to the success of the engagement. The client's primary need is a fully functional, automated sales process — not just a configured CRM. - Build out end-to-end sales automation workflows covering lead capture, qualification, follow-up triggers, deal stage progression, task assignment, and activity logging - Automate repetitive touchpoints so the sales team can focus on selling, not administration - Configure pipeline-specific automation rules that reflect how the client actually sells - Set up notifications, reminders, and escalation triggers to ensure nothing falls through the cracks - Build reporting dashboards that give leadership real-time visibility into pipeline health and sales activity **Phase 4 — Training & Handoff** - End-user training for the sales team and key stakeholders - Admin documentation and go-live support --- ## Client Profile - Industry: Cybersecurity Advisory, GRC, AI Governance - Team Size: Fewer than 20 employees - Sales Team: 1 person (newly onboarded Sales VP) - Tech Stack: Microsoft 365 (Standard), Zoho CRM - Location: Dallas/Fort Worth (remote engagement is fine) --- ## What We're Looking For **Required:** - Proven Zoho CRM implementation experience — please share specific examples - Hands-on M365 + Zoho CRM integration experience, including SSO configuration - Deep experience building sales workflow automation in Zoho CRM — this is the core of the engagement - Strong client-facing communication skills — you will work directly with the client's leadership team - Ability to drive the project independently without heavy hand-holding **Preferred:** - Experience recovering stalled implementations - Background working with small professional services or consulting firms --- ## Important Context This is a recovery engagement. A previous consultant was unable to deliver, and the client's leadership is frustrated with the lack of progress. You must be comfortable stepping into a partially configured environment, establishing credibility quickly, and delivering visible progress early. This is an end-user facing role. You will work directly with the client's team — not through an intermediary — and will be expected to communicate clearly, manage expectations, and represent yourself professionally at every touchpoint. If this engagement is successful, there is a strong likelihood of additional projects to follow. We work with multiple clients who have similar needs, and a specialist who performs well here becomes a resource we bring back. --- Please include the following in your proposal: 1. One or two Zoho CRM implementations you've completed, including any M365 integration and workflow automation work 2. How you would approach assessing and recovering a stalled implementation 3. Realistic timeline to go-live for a company this size 4. Your rate and availability Generic proposals will not be considered.