Mark Cells
IT Proffesional
Sunnyridge
Summary
Seeking a challenging management position within a forward-thinking organization that encompasses a broad spectrum of technologies. I aim to leverage my extensive skills and experience in IT infrastructure, Technical Architecture, ITSM and IT Management across various technologies, including Microsoft platforms, virtualization, backup, disaster recovery and cloud platforms and solutions, to drive strategic initiatives and enhance operational efficiency. My goal is to manage and lead an effective IT team, design and implement innovative solutions, and contribute to both organizational success and community impact. I am committed to advancing my personal and professional development through meaningful work that benefits the organization and its stakeholders, while also making a positive contribution to the community.
A dynamic and adaptable IT professional with 35 years of experience driving operational efficiency and profitability through the strategic management of IT infrastructure and resources. Specializing in Microsoft technologies, virtualization, and the management of backup and disaster recovery (DR) infrastructure, I have a proven track record of leading and coordinating a diverse range of IT infrastructure projects from inception to completion. My expertise includes overseeing the architecture and integration of advanced technological solutions, leveraging cutting-edge networking concepts, and designing effective system architectures. Committed to staying abreast of emerging technologies by actively monitoring industry trends, participating in relevant professional development opportunities, and engaging with technology communities. This proactive approach involves evaluating new tools and innovations to ensure their alignment with organizational needs and integrating cutting-edge solutions to enhance operational efficiency and maintain a competitive edge. With extensive experience in IT Service Management (ITSM), I excel at optimizing service delivery and aligning IT services with business objectives. Known for being a creative and flexible problem-solver, I thrive in high-pressure environments and quickly adapt to new challenges. My hands-on leadership style, combined with exceptional interpersonal skills, enables me to communicate clearly and confidently at all organizational levels. I am dedicated to providing outstanding customer service and consistently delivering results, whether working independently or as part of a team. Collaborative leader partners with coworkers to promote engaged, empowering work culture. Documented strengths in building and maintaining relationships with diverse range of stakeholders in dynamic, fast-paced settings.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Manager: IT Infrastructure and Services
Air Traffic and Navigation Services SOC Limited
1 2016 - 1 2023
- Managed and led the IT Infrastructure, System and Service function, including Microsoft technologies, virtualization, backup, disaster recovery (DR), server, storage, network, ERP, cloud and service desk infrastructure.
- Oversaw the management, monitoring, and maintenance of the entire IT infrastructure at all ATNS sites, including Microsoft server, Azure, M365, Active Directory, Exchange, cloud backup, Citrix, Oracle, SAN and archive systems.
- Integrated cloud platforms such as Azure, M365, SQL MI (Managed Instance), Infrastructure as a Service (IAAS), Platform as a Service (PAAS), and Software as a Service (SAAS) into the infrastructure to enhance scalability and performance
- Ensured optimal performance, security, and availability across the organization while integrating IT Service Management (ITSM) practices to streamline processes and enhance service delivery.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving disputes promptly, maintaining open lines of communication, and ensuring high-quality service delivery.
Consultant: IT Systems and Infrastructure
Meta-Phsycian Business Services
2015.01 - 2016.01
- Ensured an efficient environment for project implementation through timely decision-making and effective problem resolution
- Utilized strong interpersonal and communication skills to establish and maintain professional relationships with clients, colleagues, and management
- Analyzed clients’ business systems, identifying opportunities for improvement, and delivered the recommended solutions
- Maintained an in-depth understanding of customers’ IT infrastructure to provide support and advice.
Technical Architect: IT Infrastructure
Dimension Data
2008.01 - 2015.01
- Delivered and managed specialist IT infrastructure solutions tailored to client requirements
- Designed, architected, and supported Microsoft, Network, Storage, Backup, and Data Centre Environments
- Provided sizing and performance tuning of client environments
- Advised and signed-off on changes to client environments, managed technical escalations, and proactively assisted with daily IT operational activities.
Infrastructure Architect: Technology Infrastructure Architect
Rand Merchant Bank
1989.01 - 2008.01
- Designed and architected RMB Active Directory Forest including GPO, DNS, and DHCP, as well as RMB Data Centre
- Delivered Windows Server Environment Architecture, and securing and patching of all Windows Servers
- Managed Intel/AMD Server Infrastructure Design, Administration, and Support, Backup Infrastructure Design, Administration, and Support, and Storage Environment Design and Architecture
- Provided Design, Implementation, and Support of Citrix Environment
- Carried out DR planning, documentation, implementation, and testing, and rollout of all Microsoft Windows Server systems into the environment
- Defined standards and procedures in the Microsoft Windows Server, Storage, Backup, and Citrix environments; set Server hardware standards; developed and advised on workstation standards and policies
- Drafted, implemented, and oversaw adherence to all Request for Change (RFC) processes for the Microsoft Windows Server environment
- Held overall responsibility for the Data Centre environment, including managing power and cooling infrastructure
- Served as the key decision-maker on organizational IT issues, advising on IT strategy and providing technical escalation and support within the Microsoft Windows Server, Storage, Backup, Citrix, and DR environments.
Education
ND Information Technology - Information Technology
Technikon Witwatersrand
Johannesburg, South Africa11.1991
Skills
Team Leadership
Toolsandtechnologies
Windows Server NT3.51/NT4/2000/2003/2008/2016/2019/2022, Windows 1.0x/2.0x/2.1/2.11/3.0/3.1/3.11/3.2/95/98/98SE/ME/XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10/11, Linux (various distributions), OS/2, macOS, OS/400, DOS, VMware vSphere, Hyper-V, Microsoft Azure Services (Virtual Machines, Azure Active Directory, Azure Backup, Azure Site Recovery, Azure Monitor, SQL Managed Instance (SQL MI), Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops, Citrix MetaFrame, Citrix XenApp, Citrix Cloud, Commvault Backup (including Commvault Cloud Backup), Symantec Backup Exec, NetBackup, Norton AntiVirus, McAfee Endpoint Security, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Microsoft Endpoint Manager (formerly SCCM), ManageEngine Suite (ServiceDesk Plus, OPManager, ADSelfService Plus, ADManager Plus, ADAudit Plus, EventLog Analyzer), Microsoft System Center Operations Manager (SCOM), Microsoft Office 365, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Microsoft Exchange 2016/2019/Online, Microsoft 365 (M365), Microsoft Exchange Online (EXO), Lotus Notes, Microsoft Active Directory, Swift, PowerShell (Scripting), Python, Bash, Batch Scripting, Visual Basic, Pascal, RPG III, TCP/IP, DNS, Citrix SD-WAN, Citrix Netscaler, Microsoft Exchange Online, Microsoft Teams, Cisco Meraki, HP Networking, Dell Networking, Riverbed, Tunneling, VPN Solutions (Cisco , Citrix), Microsoft Azure (Virtual Machines, Azure Active Directory, Azure Backup, Azure Site Recovery, Azure Monitor), Azure Security Center, Azure Networking (VNETs, Subnets, NSGs, Application Gateways), Azure DevOps, Commvault Cloud Backup Solution, Microsoft 365 (M365), Microsoft Exchange Online, Microsoft SQL Managed Instance (SQL MI), Microsoft System Center Operations Manager (SCOM), ManageEngine OPManager, NetFlow Manager, App Manager, Cisco UCS, Dell PowerEdge Servers, Dell VxRail, Dell PowerStore, IBM System x, HP ProLiant Servers, HP MSA Storage, HP 3PAR Storage, HP SimpliVity, EMC VNX/Unity, APC Smart-UPS, Fujitsu Server Technologies, Dell RecoverPoint, Dell VxRail, HP SimpliVity, Implementation of Structured Cabling, Power and Cooling Solutions, Rack Optimization, Remote Management (using iDRAC, HP iLO, Cisco IMC)
Additionaldetails
690818 5014 089, English and Afrikaans, Code 08, Family Activities, Music, Cinema, F1, Gaming
Professional Development
- TechMentor Infrastructure Track
- Managing and Maintaining a Server 2003 Environment - Innobits
- Server 2003 Active Directory Design - Innobits
- Implementing and Supporting XP Professional - Workgroup Institute
- UNIX Operating System Basics
- Windows NT4 TCP/IP - Workgroup Institute
- Lotus Notes Support (v4.5); Power User (v4.5); User Upgrade (v5)
- ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus Certification - ITR-Technology
- ITIL Foundations Certification
- Carnegie Leadership and Management Training
- RPG III Development
References
Available upon request.
Timeline
Consultant: IT Systems and Infrastructure
Meta-Phsycian Business Services
2015.01 - 2016.01
Technical Architect: IT Infrastructure
Dimension Data
2008.01 - 2015.01
Infrastructure Architect: Technology Infrastructure Architect
Rand Merchant Bank
1989.01 - 2008.01
Manager: IT Infrastructure and Services
Air Traffic and Navigation Services SOC Limited
1 2016 - 1 2023
ND Information Technology - Information Technology
Technikon Witwatersrand
Similar Profiles
Bless MabundaBless Mabunda
HR Consultant at Air Traffic & Navigation ServicesHR Consultant at Air Traffic & Navigation Services
Cindy HendrikseCindy Hendrikse
Air Traffic Services Officer at Air Traffic and Navigation ServicesAir Traffic Services Officer at Air Traffic and Navigation Services
Ahmed KhaledAhmed Khaled
Senior Inventory Logistics Officer at Global Air Navigation Services L.L.C.Senior Inventory Logistics Officer at Global Air Navigation Services L.L.C.