Ajay Dullabh
JHB
Summary
Accomplished IT leader with a proven track record at Montecasino, adept in driving significant improvements in IT infrastructure and cybersecurity. Skilled in team collaboration and IT risk management, I've successfully enhanced system efficiency and security, ensuring robust disaster recovery strategies. My strategic approach to IT governance and commitment to continuous improvement have consistently delivered outstanding operational results. Knowledgeable IT Manager oversees technology deployment and maintenance. Instructs and leads IT staff members in support of hardware, software and networking infrastructure. Actively works with executives to determine and implement tech needs. Manages technology strategy, training and documentation. Insightful Information Technology Manager with 15 years of IT leadership experience including oversight of infrastructure, application support and security services. Dedicated to customer satisfaction with focused delivery of technical solutions. Proven leader in directing operations, maintenance and support of complex systems. Develops creative business solutions, leveraging diverse methodologies and delivering engineering solutions for leading organizations. Highly adept in request for proposal development, technology needs assessments and staff training.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
IT Manager
Montecasino
JHB
01.2003 - Current
- Managed vendor relationships for hardware, software, and services procurement, ensuring quality products at competitive prices.
- Collaborated with other departments to help meet IT needs and properly integrate and secure systems.
- Coordinated IT operations activities to deliver smooth flow of daily business needs.
- Oversaw IT department operations and training.
- Developed and implemented measures and procedures to protect IT systems from cyber threats and data breaches.
- Conferred with executives to advise and plan for short-term and long-term IT system upgrade needs.
- Led a skilled IT team in providing exceptional technical support, fostering a collaborative environment that promoted professional growth.
- Communicated with executive team and CEO to maximize development efficiencies and resolve technology issues.
- Improved network efficiency by implementing new server configurations and optimizing system operations.
- Reduced downtime by promptly addressing hardware and software issues, ensuring minimal impact on business operations.
- Managed network and system performance, conducting troubleshooting, security patching, and maintenance.
- Evaluated emerging technologies to identify opportunities for innovation and improvement within the organization''s IT landscape.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations to identify areas for improvement and develop targeted action plans for continuous enhancement of IT services.
- Oversaw technology budget planning and allocation to optimize resource utilization while meeting organizational objectives.
- Implemented robust backup strategies to safeguard critical data against loss or corruption, minimizing potential risks.
- Optimized helpdesk performance through process improvements, enabling faster response times and increased user satisfaction levels.
- Created and terminated user's accounts from start to finish in business applications.
- Guided organizational technology strategy and roadmaps.
- Demonstrated familiarity with latest hardware, software and networking technology.
- Interacted and negotiated with vendors, outsourcers and contractors to secure products and services.
- Streamlined processes through the automation of routine tasks, increasing team productivity and reducing manual effort.
- Developed custom IT solutions to address specific business needs, driving operational improvements and cost savings.
- Customized and repaired technology based on staff requests.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations by implementing comprehensive IT policies and procedures covering data privacy, security, and access controls.
- Built, repaired and installed computer-related hardware based on deployment procedures.
- Enhanced IT infrastructure security with regular vulnerability assessments and proactive patch management.
- Spearheaded disaster recovery efforts during critical incidents, restoring systems functionality quickly to minimize downtime and maintain business continuity.
- Assisted in development of long-term strategies to grow department and resources.
- Facilitated seamless transitions during system upgrades or migrations by coordinating between stakeholders and mitigating potential disruptions to business operations.
- Established a robust IT service management framework based on industry standards such as ITIL, driving quality improvements and operational excellence.
- Understood key product management roadmap objectives and requirements to develop product technology strategy.
- Contributed to the successful completion of numerous high-profile projects by providing expert guidance on technology strategy, infrastructure design, and implementation best practices.
- Coordinated technical training and personal development classes for staff members.
- Led technology selection and rollout, focusing on organizational planning and supplier service-level agreements.
- Updated customers and senior leaders on progress and roadblocks.
- Championed employee training initiatives focused on enhancing technical skills and promoting best practices across the organization.
- Promoted collaboration between cross-functional teams by integrating disparate systems into unified platforms for improved communication and workflow efficiency.
- Delivered strategic guidance on technology investments by conducting thorough market research and presenting recommendations to senior leadership.
- Analyzed network security and current infrastructure, assessing areas in need of improvement.
- Implemented and maintained technology and software budget.
- Identified computer hardware and network system issues, performing troubleshooting techniques for remediation.
- Managed life cycle replacement of hardware and software.
- Coordinated secure system access of users to various department systems and platforms.
- Liaised with other departments to minimize network interruptions and possible downtimes.
- Oversaw development and implementation of improvements to support network operations.
IT System Manager
Tsogosun Hotels and Gaming
JHB
04.2018 - 08.2019
- Achieved cost savings through diligent vendor management and contract negotiations for hardware and software acquisitions.
- Spearheaded the development of cutting-edge infrastructure solutions that increased overall system capacity and reliability.
- Implemented robust security measures to safeguard sensitive data from potential breaches, reducing vulnerability risks significantly.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to design cohesive software systems, optimizing workflow and productivity.
- Designed backup strategies which ensured minimal operational impact during disaster recovery scenarios.
- Streamlined IT processes for increased efficiency and reduced downtime through comprehensive system monitoring.
- Developed customized solutions for clients, resulting in improved user experience and satisfaction.
- Championed best practices in change management processes to ensure smooth transitions during system upgrades or replacements.
- Optimized resource allocation by conducting regular capacity planning exercises, ensuring maximum utilization of available assets.
- Evaluated competing technology solutions by conducting thorough research and analysis, ensuring informed decision-making in line with organizational goals.
- Oversaw incident response efforts, proactively addressing issues before they escalated into larger problems.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and emerging technologies, applying insights to drive continuous improvement initiatives within the organization.
- Built strong relationships with internal stakeholders by consistently delivering high-quality service and support on system-related matters.
- Provided technical support and guidance to users, fostering a strong customer-centric culture within the organization.
- Led training sessions on new software applications, empowering employees to utilize technology effectively in their daily tasks.
- Managed successful migration of company data to a new platform, ensuring seamless integration and minimal disruption.
- Developed comprehensive documentation outlining standard operating procedures for system maintenance activities, promoting consistency across the team''s operations.
- Conducted thorough audits of existing systems, identifying areas for improvement and implementing strategic updates accordingly.
- Provided remote troubleshooting and support for users.
- Created and maintained policy documentation on troubleshooting systems, detailing best practices and inherent goals.
- Responded to incidents quickly, troubleshot problems and corrected faults.
- Communicated with third party providers and business channel partners to maintain strong commercial alliances.
- Managed systems infrastructure, overseeing logistical movement to maintain smooth operations and prevent equipment and skill deficits.
- Led company-wide system installation, overseeing upgrades to provide minimal interruptions to business continuity.
- Spearheaded cost-saving efforts, transitioning to cloud-based system and virtualization.
- Drafted change management policies to streamline introductions of new software and systems.
- Spoke at industry events and conferences, sharing systems management techniques.
- Designed company-wide backup and data retention policies, monitoring ongoing efforts to prevent data loss.
- Wrote and updated technical documentation covering system components.
- Administered system controls, databases, and networks.
- Assisted in onboarding high-profile clients, going hands-on to encourage strong business relationship formation.
- Kept computer systems operating at optimal performance levels.
- Recommended systems improvements to technical staff, prioritizing maximum return on investment (ROI).
- Oversaw internal reporting protocols for system malfunction incidents, designing pre-rendered incident report formats to streamline response measures.
- Identified computer hardware and network system issues, performing troubleshooting techniques for remediation.
- Managed life cycle replacement of hardware and software.
- Oversaw development and implementation of improvements to support network operations.
- Analyzed network security and current infrastructure, assessing areas in need of improvement.
- Led technical upgrade projects for clients by working and coordinating with consultants and developers for integrations.
- Communicated regularly with customers concerning data exchange and technology integration.
- Implemented and maintained technology and software budget.
- Coordinated secure system access of users to various department systems and platforms.
- Liaised with other departments to minimize network interruptions and possible downtimes.
- Wrote strategic business plans outlining need for departmental information technology resources.
Assistant IT Manager
Montecasino
JHB
04.2008 - 03.2018
- Streamlined IT support processes for increased efficiency, reducing ticket resolution times and improving user satisfaction.
- Optimized server infrastructure through virtualization technologies, significantly reducing hardware costs while maintaining high performance levels.
- Assisted in the development of an IT budget strategy, aligning resource allocation with organizational goals and objectives.
- Established robust data backup protocols, safeguarding critical information against potential loss or corruption incidents.
- Conducted regular audits of IT systems to ensure compliance with industry standards and best practices.
- Championed IT policies and procedures, promoting adherence to best practices throughout the organization.
- Designed and implemented a disaster recovery plan, minimizing potential downtime in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
- Maintained accurate inventory records for all IT assets, facilitating efficient asset lifecycle management processes and informed procurement decisions.
- Delivered comprehensive training programs for end-users on new software applications and hardware devices, promoting swift adoption rates across the organization.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams during major system upgrades, ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations while achieving targeted outcomes.
- Managed vendor relationships to negotiate favorable contracts, optimizing resource allocation and cost savings.
- Developed and executed IT project plans, ensuring timely completion of milestones and successful delivery within budget constraints.
- Enhanced network security by implementing comprehensive vulnerability assessments and risk mitigation strategies.
- Led a team of technicians in providing top-notch end-user support, fostering a positive work environment that encouraged professional growth.
- Evaluated emerging technologies for potential integration into existing systems, driving innovation and staying ahead of industry trends.
- Collaborated with senior leadership to develop strategic technology roadmaps, guiding future investments in alignment with company vision.
- Resolved complex technical issues by leveraging strong analytical and problem-solving skills, ensuring minimal impact on productivity levels.
- Developed comprehensive documentation for network topology, system configurations, and operational processes, streamlining knowledge transfer and reducing onboarding time for new team members.
- Spearheaded the migration to cloud-based services, enhancing scalability and flexibility while reducing overall operational expenses.
- Implemented an effective patch management process, mitigating risks associated with outdated software vulnerabilities.
- Managed life cycle replacement of hardware and software.
- Identified computer hardware and network system issues, performing troubleshooting techniques for remediation.
- Analyzed network security and current infrastructure, assessing areas in need of improvement.
- Coordinated secure system access of users to various department systems and platforms.
- Liaised with other departments to minimize network interruptions and possible downtimes.
- Oversaw development and implementation of improvements to support network operations.
- Communicated regularly with customers concerning data exchange and technology integration.
- Implemented and maintained technology and software budget.
- Wrote strategic business plans outlining need for departmental information technology resources.
- Led technical upgrade projects for clients by working and coordinating with consultants and developers for integrations.
IT System Engineer
Montecasino
JHB
04.2007 - 04.2008
- Resolved issues and escalated problems with knowledgeable support and quality service.
- Resolved complex technical issues through effective problem-solving techniques and root cause analysis.
- Provided expert support for end-users, ensuring optimal system performance and user satisfaction.
- Conducted rigorous testing of new systems prior to deployment, identifying potential issues and mitigating risks accordingly.
- Trained junior engineers on best practices related to system administration, providing guidance and mentorship for their professional growth.
- Created comprehensive documentation for system configurations, procedures, and best practices to facilitate knowledge sharing among team members.
- Developed custom scripts for automating routine tasks, increasing overall productivity.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, meeting tight deadlines while maintaining high-quality deliverables.
- Developed IT policies to comply with applicable laws.
- Reduced downtime for critical systems through proactive monitoring and maintenance tasks.
- Assisted in the development of disaster recovery plans, ensuring minimal impact on business continuity during unforeseen events.
- Improved system efficiency by implementing and optimizing hardware and software components.
- Streamlined communication between IT teams by establishing clear protocols and fostering a collaborative work environment.
- Assisted employees with resolving network problems at remote locations.
- Designed efficient processes for data backup and storage management, safeguarding vital company information from loss or corruption.
- Compiled data and generated graphs to interpret results and suggest key operational improvements.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to design, develop, and deploy scalable IT solutions in alignment with business objectives.
- Managed key information technology and compliance programs for proactive risk management.
- Worked with stakeholders to determine implementation and integration of system-oriented projects.
- Compiled, processed, and analyzed test data and results to improve product quality.
- Maintained compliance with industry regulations by implementing stringent security measures across all network devices and systems.
- Configured, tested and maintained Cisco network equipment to achieve maximum performance.
- Developed robust monitoring systems that provided real-time alerts for potential performance issues or security threats.
- Optimized application performance by utilizing load balancing techniques across multiple servers.
- Evaluated emerging technologies and recommended appropriate solutions to improve existing infrastructure.
- Spearheaded compliance efforts and developed best practices to drive continual process improvements.
- Enhanced network security by conducting regular vulnerability assessments and implementing necessary patches.
- Analyzed security logs to determine and alleviate network threats.
- Led the migration of critical applications to cloud-based platforms, providing increased flexibility and scalability for business operations.
- Implemented server virtualization strategies, maximizing resource utilization and reducing operational costs.
- Developed and maintained policies to control information technology and security for Gaming operations.
- Supported system users, educating employees on troubleshooting and problem-solving protocols.
- Documented system configuration, mapping and processes.
- Delivered helpdesk service and support to customers.
- Completed software updates and assessed security patches for optimized computer use.
- Checked for accuracy and functionality during implementation of new systems.
- Maintained stability, integrity and efficient operation of information systems supporting organizational functions.
- Created flowcharts, diagrams and other documentation.
- Suggested system updates or changes after conduct in-depth technical reviews.
- Collaborated with executive team to define business requirements and systems goals.
- Automated data collection activities to increase productivity.
- Optimized networked software and operating systems by applying updates and patches.
- Tested and analyzed equipment design and performance feasibility to determine potential ROI.
- Designed tailored disaster recovery solutions to maintain uptime.
- Negotiated with vendors, outsourcers and contractors to secure contracts and set SLAs.
- Implemented networking and server changes to meet client budgets and needs.
- Integrated database and backup servers into enterprise systems.
- Conducted end-user reviews for modified and new systems.
- Handled scripting tasks for debugging and automation using Python.
- Researched software and systems products to determine purchase recommendations.
- Performed cost-benefit and ROI analyses for proposed systems.
- Configured, installed, and upgraded SQL databases.
- Improved and deployed billing automation, accounting and real-time reporting and analytics capabilities.
- Proposed technical feasibility solutions for new system designs and suggested options for performance improvement of technical components.
- Streamlined troubleshooting processes to improve system support and enhance communication between support team and end-users.
- Created system design models and specifications to support system programmers and development teams.
- Verified compliance with applicable performance metrics and compatibility expectations.
- Provided 2nd and 3rd level technical support and troubleshooting to internal and external clients.
- Wrote and maintained custom scripts to increase system efficiency and performance time.
- Designed and implemented system security and data assurance.
- Managed installation, upgrade and deployment projects and provided on-site direction for network engineers.
- Oversaw development and maintenance of organization computer systems and intranet.
- Managed and monitored installed systems for highest level of availability.
- Managed use of various types of databases and configured, installed and upgraded new ones.
- Monitored and tested application performance to identify potential bottlenecks, develop solutions and collaborate with developers on solution implementation.
- Defined enterprise processes and best practices and tailored enterprise processes for applications.
- Participated in system development life cycle from requirements analysis through system implementation.
- Resolved issues related to operational components for LAN, WAN and voice systems.
Education
Bcom Informatics/Information Systems - Informatics
Unisa
South Africa 04.2001 -
Future Leadership Program - Business Administration And Management
Wits Business
South Africa 04.2001 -
IT Tech Diploma - Information Technology
CTI
JHB 04.2001 -
Skills
Team Collaboration
Information confidentiality
Risk mitigation planning
IT risk management
IT Infrastructure
IT Asset Management
Technical Troubleshooting
IT Budgeting
IT Procurement
IT Compliance
Cybersecurity best practices
Network Administration
Operating system management
Documentation And Reporting
IT resource use
Documentation Management
Quality Assurance
Information Security
Application support
Team Development
IT Governance
ITIL Framework
Cybersecurity Management
Disaster Recovery
Business Analysis
Change Management
Enterprise Architecture
Virtualization
Mobile Technologies
Teamwork and Collaboration
IT infrastructure proficiency
Project Planning
Problem-Solving
Project Leadership
Technology Integration
Decision-Making
Problem-solving abilities
System Integration
User Support
Multitasking
Security Planning
Excellent Communication
Infrastructure development
Analytical Thinking
Continuous Improvement
Analytical Skills
Self Motivation
Task Prioritization
Team building
Goal Setting
Operational Reporting
Time Management
Problem-solving aptitude
Time management abilities
Adaptability and Flexibility
Effective Communication
Infrastructure Planning
Professionalism
Budget Control
Organizational Skills
Budget Administration
Multitasking Abilities
Department management
Project Coordination
Attention to Detail
Staff hiring
Adaptability
Reliability
Active Listening
Relationship Building
Written Communication
End point configurations
Equipment procurement
Interpersonal Skills
Professional Demeanor
Timeline
IT System Manager
Tsogosun Hotels and Gaming
04.2018 - 08.2019
Assistant IT Manager
Montecasino
04.2008 - 03.2018
IT System Engineer
Montecasino
04.2007 - 04.2008
IT Manager
Montecasino
01.2003 - Current
Bcom Informatics/Information Systems - Informatics
Unisa
04.2001 -
Future Leadership Program - Business Administration And Management
Wits Business
04.2001 -
IT Tech Diploma - Information Technology
CTI
04.2001 -