I led a team in transitioning from on-premises solutions to Azure-hosted environments. My role involved technology leadership and operations management, where I focused on automation and operational security. I managed and optimised Azure environments, utilising Kubernetes (K8s) for container orchestration and applying Infrastructure as Code (IaC) practices.I directed the shift from traditional client/server architectures to Azure-based cloud environments, including containerisation, while ensuring adherence to best practices and implementing comprehensive policies and procedures for a seamless rollout across the business and client systems.I designed and implemented cloud architecture that ensured service continuity, scalability, and efficiency while fostering a modern workplace environment.I managed and mentored a global team, adeptly navigating time zone challenges to ensure high availability and performance across cloud systems.I developed CI/CD pipelines to automate deployments and streamline system updates, enhancing operational efficiency.I enforced security practices aligned with ISO27001 and SOC2, conducting risk assessments and implementing mitigation strategies to safeguard our systems.I unified the global teams on a single Office 365 / Azure platform, facilitating remote working and enhancing collaboration.I oversaw the implementation of remote device management and business continuity plans to support the organisation's shift to remote operations.I built trusted relationships across the business, acting as a key resource for technical challenges and effectively managing difficult customer interactions.I demonstrated strong organisational and prioritisation skills in dealing with team disputes, hiring and retaining highly talented DevOps and tech professionals.I documented, designed, architected, and audited technical solutions while guiding and mentoring team members for their professional development.

I designed and implemented a Customer Identity and Access Management solution for a new learning platform, serving 30,000 to 40,000 learners. This provided a reliable sign-in experience with options for Bring Your Own Identity for corporate customers and social account logins for learners. I successfully migrated face-to-face classroom tools to a virtual desktop environment for 2,000 learners, ensuring our team could continue teaching effectively during the pandemic. I enhanced security by implementing vulnerability scanning and conducting NCSC CHECK and Cyber Essentials Plus audits, which helped secure over £1 million in additional business. I rolled out PKI and RADIUS to enable secure WiFi access, creating a safer environment for all users. I developed an Always On VPN solution for over 400 staff, empowering them to work from anywhere in the world. I Implemented Identity Access Management and Single Sign-On for more than 400 users across 19 SaaS applications, streamlining access for a £20 million-a-year business. I focused on team growth and collaboration by managing and mentoring the Infrastructure Engineering and DevOps teams, fostering an environment of support and shared success.

I live migrated SQL Server on-premises database to Azure-managed SQL with 30k active learners.I migrated 400+ users to Office 365 from on-premises Exchange.I migrated All on-premises, private cloud servers, applications and data to Azure with near-zero downtime

- Managed the Active Directory infrastructure across multiple domains for 140 global offices and three data centres, ensuring efficient user management and security during a significant merger.- Implemented identity management solutions for 8,000 staff, facilitating seamless access to SaaS applications such as Salesforce and Workday.- Developed a high-availability private cloud infrastructure in the London data centre to support hundreds of EU-based virtual machines and provide disaster recovery capacity for the US data centre.- Oversaw the management of the global Cisco VPN, connecting office locations around the world.- Managed NetApp storage, Cisco UCS, Cisco Nexus, and Hyper-V clustering to enhance overall infrastructure performance and reliability.

- Migrated 2,500 PKF identities into BDO systems, including Exchange email and Active Directory accounts.- Administered SharePoint, enhancing collaboration and document management across the organisation.- Served as the Technical Business Owner for the Audit Process Tool (APT), ensuring effective implementation and user adoption.- Created application monitoring, alerting, and automated fault resolution systems.- Implemented a custom monitoring web service using ColdFusion and SQL Server, improving operational efficiency.- Championed change and problem management within the organisation

Reporting directly to the Managing Director I had board level responsibilities including finances, budgeting, staff development, property and facilities. My day to day duties were overall responsibility to manage the company’s multiple data centre operations, support staff, business development and client accounts in the hosting stream.Key