Ali Saad Email & Phone Number

Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Key Responsibilities and Achievements:Windows Server Management: Administer and optimize Windows Server (2016, 2019, 2022) environments to ensure high availability and security.Microsoft 365 & Exchange Administration: Lead Office 365 and Exchange Online management, including user administration, anti-spam/anti-phishing configuration, and advanced email security protocols (SPF, DKIM, Proofpoint).Exchange Expertise: Extensive experience with on-prem Exchange (2010-2019), including mailbox and transport server roles, PowerShell scripting, and best practice analyzer tools.Azure & Identity Management: Synchronize on-prem AD with Azure AD Connect and configure Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to enhance security.VMware and VDI: Manage virtualized environments with VMware, Nutanix, and shadow copy backup processes, ensuring efficiency and continuity.Monitoring & Security: Utilize Microsoft 365 Defender and SolarWinds for proactive monitoring and threat response, supporting robust infrastructure protection.Technical Documentation & Knowledge Sharing: Develop detailed documentation and knowledgebase articles for the Service Desk team to streamline troubleshooting and elevate team knowledge.ServiceNow: Efficiently track, manage, and resolve technical issues via ServiceNow, driving operational excellence and user satisfaction.Core Skills: Active Directory, Office 365/Exchange Online, VMware, Azure AD, PowerShell, Microsoft Defender, DNS/DHCP, Proofpoint, Technical Troubleshooting, ServiceNow, SharePoint, Virtual Servers (VMWare, Nutanix), Telus TC2 management, Process-oriented

Calgary, Alberta, Canada

As an IT Infrastructure short term contract Specialist with Inter Pipeline, I provided advanced technical support and infrastructure management across multi-cloud and hybrid environments. My role focused on optimizing server performance, enhancing security, and supporting seamless network and cloud operations to meet critical business requirements.Key Responsibilities and Technical Expertise:Server & Cloud Management: Managed and optimized Microsoft Azure, AVD, Windows Server (2019-2022), and Linux systems, ensuring high availability and security across environments. Proficient in AWS and Office 365 management, providing reliable cloud solutions for scalability.Virtualization Technologies: Leveraged VMware and Hyper-V for virtual server infrastructure, optimizing resource allocation and boosting operational efficiency.Networking & Security: Configured and monitored TCP/IP, VPN, and firewall settings to maintain robust and secure connectivity. Implemented MFA, Group Policy (GPO), and antivirus solutions for strengthened security posture.Monitoring & Automation: Utilized SolarWinds for proactive system monitoring and troubleshooting, while employing PowerShell for automation and streamlined task management.Service Desk & Operations: Actively supported IT infrastructure operations through ServiceNow, ensuring efficient incident management and resolution.Technical Skills: IT Infrastructure Management, Microsoft Azure, AWS, VMware (vSphere, ESXi), Windows & Linux Server Administration, AVD, TCP/IP Networking, Firewalls, MFA, GPO, SolarWinds, PowerShell, ServiceNow, Robocopy, IT Operations

Calgary, Alberta, Canada

As a contract System Administrator with AESO, I was responsible for the deployment, management, and optimization of key IT infrastructure, ensuring compliance with stringent industry regulations and high standards of availability, security, and performance.Key Responsibilities and Accomplishments:Server Management & Configuration: Built and configured servers according to standardized specifications, ensuring efficient capacity, availability, and monitoring management.Infrastructure Security: Maintained AESO's security standards, adhering to Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) and C-SOX regulations, and implementing two-factor authentication, anti-virus, and Active Directory security controls.System Monitoring & Maintenance: Managed Windows Server environments, including patching, tuning, and configuration adjustments to meet operational demands.Network Administration: Provided TCP/IP networking support, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and maintaining DNS, DHCP, and time services.Scripting & Automation: Developed and debugged scripts using PowerShell, Shell, and Perl to automate routine tasks, optimize processes, and ensure consistent system management.Change Management: Actively followed change control protocols and incident review processes to minimize service disruption and ensure operational continuity.Documentation & Inventory Management: Maintained detailed documentation and updated inventories, enabling transparent and efficient system audits and tracking.

Calgary, Canada Area

As an IT System Administrator at STARS Air Ambulance, I played a crucial role in managing and securing diverse IT systems to support critical operations. My responsibilities spanned on-premises and cloud environments, ensuring reliable, secure, and optimized IT infrastructure.Key Responsibilities and Achievements:Microsoft Exchange & Office 365 Administration: Managed Exchange On-Prem (2010, 2013, 2019) and Exchange Online environments, ensuring seamless email and communication services across the organization. Configured and optimized Exchange Online Protection, Proofpoint, and Symantec Cloud Security for enhanced email security.Virtualization and Cloud Infrastructure: Supported VMware, Hyper-V, and Azure environments to maintain server performance and scalability. Utilized AWS for select applications, streamlining backup and data storage solutions.Windows Server and Desktop Management: Administered Windows Server (2008 R2, 2012, 2016, 2019) and desktop environments, including RDS, Active Directory, and Microsoft Teams/Lync integration, for a cohesive and reliable user experience.Device & Application Management: Implemented mobile device management (MDM) using Microsoft Intune, managed OneDrive and SharePoint and supported Microsoft Print Server to streamline resource access and data management.Backup and Disaster Recovery: Coordinated backup solutions and disaster recovery processes, ensuring data integrity and availability.Licensing and Compliance: Oversaw Microsoft Volume Licensing and compliance, optimizing licensing usage and managing resources within budgetary constraints.Core Skills: Server Administration, Security, Microsoft Exchange, Office 365, Active Directory, VMware vSphere, Hyper-V, MDM (Microsoft Intune), Windows Server, Backup & Restore, Microsoft Licensing, PowerShell, IT Infrastructure Design

Calgary, Canada Area

As an IT System Administrator at The Calgary Stampede, I provided comprehensive support for enterprise infrastructure, managed cloud and on-premise environments, and ensured robust security and availability across IT services. My role encompassed a diverse range of technical responsibilities to support the organization's dynamic IT needs.Core Responsibilities and Achievements:Microsoft Ecosystem Management: Administered Microsoft Exchange (2013-2016) and Microsoft 365, managing Azure Infrastructure, Intune, and mobile device management (MDM) to ensure seamless collaboration and secure data handling.Email Security and Protection: Implemented and managed email cloud security solutions with anti-spam, anti-malware, and malware analysis features, protecting users and data from threats.Virtualization & Cloud Services: Managed VMware 6.5, Citrix XenApp, and XenDesktop for efficient resource virtualization; supported cloud applications with AWS and Google Cloud Services.Directory and Access Management: Configured and maintained AD, ADFS, DNS, DHCP, and Group Policies, along with OKTA SSO for secure, efficient user access.System Monitoring and Backup: Utilized SolarWinds for proactive system monitoring, Veeam for backup and recovery, and ensured data resilience through reliable backup solutions.Team Collaboration and Support: Supported collaboration tools like Skype/MS Teams, facilitated CRM operations via Microsoft Dynamics, and provided operational support management and service desk oversight.Automation and Documentation: Wrote technical documentation, developed scripts using PowerShell, and maintained SOPs for streamlined processes and knowledge sharing.Technical Skills: Microsoft Exchange, Azure, Microsoft 365, Citrix (XenApp, XenDesktop), AWS, Google Cloud, AD/ADFS/DNS/DHCP, OKTA SSO, VMware, SolarWinds, Microsoft Dynamics CRM, Veeam, McAfee, Manage Engine, SQL, PowerShell, VLSC Licensing

Calgary, Canada Area

As an IT System Specialist at Executive Flight Center, I provided comprehensive technical support, led IT operations across multiple branches, and ensured seamless network, device, and software management. My role involved end-user support, system administration, and managing both on-premises and cloud solutions to support business operations across Western Canada.Key Responsibilities and Achievements:Cloud & Microsoft 365 Administration: Managed Office 365 and Exchange Online environments, including account administration through Azure Active Directory. Supported Microsoft Lync for video and voice conferencing, enhancing team communication.System & Network Management: Administered System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) 2012 R2, Active Directory 2008 R2, and network systems (LAN and ADSL) for consistent connectivity and user management.Mobile Device Management (MDM): Configured and supported mobile devices (iPhone, Android, BlackBerry) with Exchange Online and Air Watch’s MDM solution, ensuring secure and seamless mobile access.Technical Support & User Training: Provided desktop and network support for Windows 7 Professional and Enterprise, Microsoft Dynamics CRM, and MS Office suites (2010 and 2013). Planned and conducted IT training sessions for new and existing employees, improving user competency.Vendor Coordination: Acted as a primary contact for vendors (Dell, Canon, Telus, Primus, and Microsoft) to manage hardware, software, and service agreements, ensuring optimal IT resource utilization.

Calgary, Canada Area

As a System Specialist at Air Canada, I provided comprehensive Tier 2 technical support, ensuring smooth operations and system reliability across the company. My role involved advanced troubleshooting, system configuration, and mentoring to enhance support capabilities and deliver efficient IT solutions.Key Responsibilities and Achievements:Technical Support & Issue Resolution: Delivered Tier 2 and Tier 3 support, handling complex issues and escalated cases with expertise in hardware troubleshooting, network connectivity, and software maintenance.System & Software Management: Managed Office 365 and Azure environments, as well as Active Directory, DHCP, DNS, and certificate management, ensuring optimal functionality and secure user access.Desktop and Hardware Support: Installed, configured, and maintained PCs, peripherals, and software upgrades. Managed data migrations, ensuring seamless transitions and minimal user disruption.Inventory & Licensing Management: Maintained an accurate inventory of software and managed licensing for Microsoft 365 and Adobe products, optimizing compliance and resource usage.Process Improvement & Mentorship: Analyzed trends in issue reporting to devise preventive solutions, enhancing system stability. Mentored Tier 1 and Tier 2 help desk personnel, promoting skill development and knowledge sharing.Standardization & Best Practices: Recommended and implemented systems standardization practices, improving consistency and operational efficiency.