ALISON RUPENDE
Senior Solution Architect / Account Manager
Centurion,GP
Summary
Results-driven Solutions Architect, Presales Engineer and Account Manager with a robust track record in designing and implementing cutting-edge solutions that address diverse client needs. Proven leadership of cross-functional teams ensures project success through meticulous strategic planning and execution. Expertise in system integration, Information Security and cloud computing enhances the ability to deliver innovative, scalable solutions that drive business growth. Committed to fostering strong client relationships while navigating complex technical landscapes to achieve optimal outcomes.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
15
15
Certificates
Work History
Senior Solutions Architect / Account Manager
Afrocentric IP
06.2019 - Current
- Analyzing customer requirements, conducting product demonstrations, and creating customized technical solutions.
- Proven track record of driving revenue growth through effective pre-sales strategies and relationship building.
- Create detailed pricing quotes, including cost breakdowns, discounts, and terms and conditions.
- Conduct product demonstrations and presentations to showcase the features and benefits of solutions.
- Participate in sales meetings, conferences, and industry events to promote our solutions and build relationships with potential clients.
- Craft comprehensive and persuasive proposals that address customer requirements and highlight the value of our solutions.
- Provide technical support and guidance during the sales cycle, including responding to technical queries and RFPs.
- Skilled in solution architecture, proposal development, and project management to ensure successful implementation of solutions.
- Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
- Basic python knowledge
- Collaborative team player, adept at working cross-functionally with sales, marketing, and engineering teams to achieve business goals.
- In-depth knowledge of industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitive landscape to inform strategic decision-making.
- Aligned IT solutions with business objectives by collaborating closely with stakeholders to understand their unique needs and requirements.
IT Manager
Africa’s Best 350 Ltd
07.2017 - 05.2019
- Directed IT Department operational and strategic planning, fostering innovation and resource allocation.
- Managed Windows server and Microsoft Teams administration for optimal system performance.
- Implemented disaster recovery procedures and IT policies to ensure data security and continuity.
- Led IT staff in hiring, training, and performance coaching at Africa’s Best 350 (pty)
- Windows server management
- Microsoft Teams administration
- Installation and Configuration of Microsoft SQL Server
System Support Engineer
Metro Computer Services
10.2016 - 06.2017
- Implement AD group policies.
- Installation of OS and required service packages.
- Updating and maintaining OS and software to the latest releases, patches, etc.
- Implementing security tools and practices across servers and applications/services.
- Implementation, operation and management of services like mail, DNS, etc.
- Ensuring configurations and data backup of services and implement recovery from disaster.
- Maintaining of LAN/WAN and its services.
- Managing Active directory, DNS, DHCP, Exchange and File Servers.
- Supervise and train Desktop Technicians.
Network Administrator
EC Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture
08.2013 - 09.2016
- Assist in the development of guidelines and procedures for administration and security best practices.
- Server management
- Storage Management
- Provide network documentation.
- Administering & designing LANs and voice networks
- Perform regular security monitoring to identify any loop holes
- Manage network related projects
- Network connectivity troubleshooting, ping, tracert, telnet.
- Use CISCO CLI commands to perform router and switch configurations
Junior Network Engineer
BCX
02.2012 - 07.2013
- Install, support and maintain hardware and software infrastructure according to best practices, including routers, switches and WIFI controllers.
- Design and implement network topology to meet needs such as VOIP and other future planned/unplanned projects.
- Cisco & HP switch and router configuration configuration/troubleshooting.
- Diagnose problems and solve issues within stipulated time lines.
Education
MPhil - IT Governance
Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Bachelor of Commerce Honors - Information Systems
University of Fort Hare
Bachelor of Commerce - Information Systems
University of Fort Hare
Skills
Proposal development
Competitive analysis
Post-sales support
Sales presentations
Sales reporting
Sales pipeline management
Proposal writing
Stakeholder management
Partner management
Pre-sales support
Requirements analysis
Technical presentations
Pricing strategy
Proof of concept
Solution selling
Technical training
Certification
AWS Certified Solutions Architect
References
Available on request
Timeline
Senior Solutions Architect / Account Manager
Afrocentric IP
06.2019 - Current
IT Manager
Africa’s Best 350 Ltd
07.2017 - 05.2019
System Support Engineer
Metro Computer Services
10.2016 - 06.2017
Network Administrator
EC Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture
08.2013 - 09.2016
Junior Network Engineer
BCX
02.2012 - 07.2013
Bachelor of Commerce Honors - Information Systems
University of Fort Hare
Bachelor of Commerce - Information Systems
University of Fort Hare
MPhil - IT Governance
Nelson Mandela University (NMU)