Work Preference
Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Interests
Certification
Languages
Courses
Hobbies
Timeline
Generic
Stephen Putter
Open To Work

Stephen Putter

Pretoria

Work Preference

Job Search Status

Open to work

Work Type

Full TimePart TimeContract WorkGig Work

Location Preference

RemoteOn-SiteHybrid

Summary

A highly competent and organized Operations Manager/Systems Engineer/Technical Team Lead with experience of Cloud, On-Premises Server & Network Infrastructure, installation, administration & compliance. Possessing a proven ability to assist with the day-to-day running of an IT department and its business IT systems. Planning, organizing, directing, controlling and coordinating quality accredited ICT Operations. Accountable for day-to-day operations of resourcing, scheduling, prioritization and task coordination, and meeting project milestones, objectives and deliverables within agreed timeframes and budget. Extensive knowledge of Cloud, Microsoft Server, System Monitoring and controlling data security within guidelines to ensure compliance and report on possible improvements. Well mannered, articulate and able to act as point of contact for colleagues and external clients.

As IT professional, well-versed in providing comprehensive technical support and managing complex IT systems. Recognized for fostering team collaboration and driving successful project outcomes. Reliable and adaptable to changing technological needs, with proficiency in troubleshooting and network administration.

Experienced with IT infrastructure and support. Utilizes advanced troubleshooting skills to resolve technical issues promptly. Knowledge of network security protocols and systems management best practices.

Detail-oriented, organized, and meticulous employee. Works at fast pace to meet tight deadlines. Enthusiastic team player ready to contribute to company success.

Overview

25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

IT Specialist

Paracon
Pretoria
01.2024 - Current

Department of Home Affairs - ABIS Project / Afiswitch - SAPS Project

  • Developed and maintained documentation for IT processes and procedures to enhance team knowledge.
  • Conducted training sessions for staff on new technologies, increasing user competency and confidence.
  • Led troubleshooting efforts for complex technical issues, improving resolution time and user satisfaction.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify technology needs and recommend effective solutions.
  • Analyzed system performance metrics to propose enhancements that drove operational improvements.
  • Mentored junior IT staff, fostering skill development and promoting best practices within the team.
  • Configured hardware, devices, and software to set up work stations for employees.
  • Managed hardware and software inventory, ensuring timely updates and replacements as needed.
  • Maintained servers and systems to keep networks fully operational during peak periods.
  • Walked individuals through basic troubleshooting tasks.
  • Enhanced system efficiency by implementing and maintaining IT infrastructure upgrades.
  • Optimized network performance through regular monitoring and maintenance.
  • Led migration projects to modernize legacy systems without disrupting daily operations or compromising security standards.
  • Maintained a comprehensive knowledge of current industry trends, developments, tools, or techniques relevant to the role of an IT specialist.
  • Implemented effective backup systems to ensure data integrity and availability in case of disaster recovery scenarios.
  • Collaborated closely with other departments to provide tailored technology solutions that addressed their specific needs or challenges.
  • Responded to support requests from end-users and patiently walked individuals through basic troubleshooting tasks.
  • Patched software and installed new versions to eliminate security problems and protect data.
  • Evaluated emerging technologies for feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and potential value-add to the company''s IT ecosystem.
  • Secured sensitive data by establishing robust cybersecurity measures and protocols.
  • Conducted regular system audits to identify vulnerabilities, weaknesses, or deviations from established policies or procedures.
  • Reduced downtime by identifying potential issues and resolving them proactively.
  • Designed comprehensive IT policies to ensure compliance with industry regulations and best practices.
  • Installed, configured and maintained computer systems and network connections.
  • Diagnosed and troubleshot hardware, software and network issues.
  • Managed system upgrades and installations, ensuring minimal downtime for end-users.

Technical Consultant

Technimove
London, England, United Kingdom (Remote)
12.2023 - 10.2024

AIFS (England) / BCMG (Wales) / Nutanix (USA)

  • Led technical assessments to identify system requirements and solutions for client projects.
  • Developed and implemented migration strategies for seamless transitions to cloud-based platforms.
  • Provided expert guidance on best practices for data management and security compliance.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize project delivery timelines and resources.
  • Enhanced system performance by identifying and resolving technical issues through troubleshooting and root cause analysis.
  • Assessed business requirements to create focused solutions.
  • Coordinated with software developers to tailor applications to client-specific requirements, ensuring maximum usability and satisfaction.
  • Implemented security protocols to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access or breaches.
  • Offered input for complex documents to support client-ready final versions.
  • Oversaw document development across project workstreams to create internal control statements per compliance and regulatory standards.

Senior System Engineer

MVT Technologies
Gauteng, South Africa
08.2021 - 12.2023

IDEMIA \ Department of Home Affairs

  • Led system architecture design to enhance operational efficiency across multiple projects.
  • Developed and implemented automation solutions, reducing manual intervention and streamlining processes.
  • Mentored junior engineers, fostering skill development and promoting knowledge sharing within the team.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify system requirements and drive project success.
  • Conducted performance analysis on existing systems, recommending improvements for scalability and reliability.
  • Ensured compliance with industry standards and best practices during system development and deployment phases.
  • Managed technical documentation, maintaining accuracy for future reference and onboarding purposes.
  • Optimized system performance by identifying and resolving complex technical issues.
  • Developed comprehensive disaster recovery plans to minimize downtime in the event of a crisis.
  • Conducted thorough audits of system architecture, identifying areas for improvement and implementing corrective actions.
  • Troubleshot hardware components to identify root causes of malfunctions, reducing equipment downtime substantially.
  • Established maintenance schedules for regular system checkups, enhancing overall stability and reliability.
  • Optimized networked software and operating systems by applying updates and patches.
  • Documented and developed engineering procedures and processes.

Information Technology Technical Manager

Gijima
South Africa
04.2020 - 08.2021

MSP VIP Customer Base

  • Led cross-functional teams to enhance project delivery and operational efficiency.
  • Developed and implemented technical strategies aligning with business goals.
  • Oversaw system integrations, ensuring seamless functionality across platforms.
  • Managed vendor relationships to optimize service delivery and contract negotiations.
  • Directed troubleshooting efforts for complex technical issues, minimizing downtime.
  • Created comprehensive documentation of processes and procedures to ensure consistency throughout the department''s operations.
  • Successfully managed multiple high-stakes projects concurrently while adhering to strict timelines and budget constraints.
  • Introduced automation tools to streamline processes and increase efficiency across multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Designed, implemented and monitored integration between applications while coordinating updates and developing test cases.
  • Troubleshot systems comprised of security alarms and Internet connectivity.
  • Improved systems with addition of new features and infrastructure.

Technical Team Leader

EOH
05.2015 - 04.2020

Department of Home Affairs (ID-Card Project)

  • Developed and implemented innovative solutions to enhance system performance and reliability.
  • Streamlined project workflows, increasing team efficiency and collaboration across departments.
  • Conducted regular performance reviews, providing constructive feedback to improve team productivity.
  • Evaluated emerging technologies to recommend enhancements for existing systems and processes.
  • Managed resource allocation effectively, balancing workload distribution among team members to prevent burnout.
  • Established robust monitoring systems to proactively identify potential issues before they escalated into critical incidents.
  • Led successful system migrations with minimal downtime, coordinating efforts across multiple teams for seamless execution.
  • Coordinated release activities, managing deployment schedules while mitigating risks associated with change management procedures.
  • Drove incident management processes, ensuring prompt resolution of production issues while minimizing impact on business operations.
  • Installed and configured operating systems and applications.

Server & Microsoft Consultant

EOH
10.2013 - 04.2015

Department of Home Affairs (ID-Card Project)

  • Spearheaded process improvements that increased operational efficiency across multiple projects.
  • Created comprehensive documentation detailing technical specifications, system configurations, procedures, and user guides for reference purposes both internally and externally for clients.
  • Reduced downtime and improved productivity by providing timely technical support to clients, addressing their concerns and solving problems quickly.
  • Developed technical requirement documentation for new software products.
  • Troubleshot incidents reported by end-users to schedule system changes and identify permanent solutions.
  • Re-engineered existing computer systems to promote ease-of-use and improve system security.

Network & Systems Administrator

Murray & Roberts
Johannesburg Area, South Africa
06.2011 - 07.2013
  • Configured and maintained network infrastructure to ensure optimal performance and security.
  • Monitored system health, diagnosing issues rapidly to minimize downtime across critical operations.
  • Implemented backup solutions and disaster recovery plans to safeguard data integrity.
  • Developed training materials and conducted workshops for junior staff on best practices in network management.
  • Led initiatives to upgrade hardware and software systems, enhancing overall operational capabilities.
  • Conducted comprehensive system audits on regular basis.
  • Deployed antivirus and security solutions throughout entire system network.
  • Provided exceptional end-user support by resolving technical issues quickly and efficiently.
  • Installed, configured and supported local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN) and Internet system.
  • Monitored system performance and responded to alerts.

Network & Systems Consultant

ESI (Enterprise Systems Implementation)
Centurion, Gauteng, South Africa
04.2010 - 06.2011

MSP Support

  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify system requirements and optimize functionality.
  • Designed and executed disaster recovery plans to ensure business continuity in the event of system failures or data breaches.
  • Reduced downtime by proactively monitoring system health and addressing potential problems before they escalated.
  • Optimized system performance through regular maintenance, updates, and troubleshooting.
  • Improved system efficiency by identifying and resolving technical issues in a timely manner.
  • Contributed to the successful completion of large-scale projects through efficient resource management and effective communication with stakeholders.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing prompt technical support and resolving complex issues swiftly.
  • Designed, tested, installed and monitored new systems.
  • Prepared system diagrams and flow charts to support problem analysis.

IT Consultant

F1 Information Solutions
Pretoria Area, South Africa
03.2007 - 04.2010

MSP Support

  • Designed and implemented IT infrastructure improvements, increasing system reliability and performance.
  • Conducted comprehensive assessments of existing systems, identifying opportunities for optimization.
  • Reduced downtime by proactively addressing potential issues through regular system maintenance and updates.
  • Made recommendations and performed upgrades, assisting businesses in technology planning aligned with growth projections.
  • Established strong relationships with vendors for cost-effective sourcing of cutting-edge hardware and software solutions that met clients'' needs effectively.
  • Enhanced system efficiency by implementing innovative IT solutions and optimizing existing processes.
  • Implemented and managed operating systems and software, security systems and intrusion detection systems.

Desktop Technician

AST
Newcastle Area, South Africa
01.2001 - 02.2007
  • Diagnosed and resolved hardware and software issues for end-user systems.
  • Installed, configured, and maintained desktop operating systems and applications.
  • Provided technical support to users via remote assistance and onsite visits.
  • Documented troubleshooting processes and solutions in knowledge base system.
  • Collaborated with IT team to streamline ticket resolution workflows, enhancing efficiency.
  • Implemented process improvements that reduced response time for service requests significantly.

Education

High School Diploma - Basic Networking

CompTIA

VCP - VM-Ware

Pearson

VMCE - Veeam

Pearson

MCTS - Microsoft Server Virtualization

Bytes Technology Group

MCITP - Microsoft Enterprise Administrator

Bytes Technology Group

AZURE204x - Azure Identity

Microsoft Acadamy

AZURE202x - Azure Virtual Machines

Microsoft Academy

HPE OneView - HPE OneView 18

HPE Academy

MECPA - ManageEngine Monitoring Suite

Zoho Training

CEH - Ethical Haccking

Skills Academy

AZ-900 - Azure Fundamentals

Microsoft Academy

CompTIA A+ - Basic Computing Hardware

CompTIA

CompTIA Linux+ - Basic Linux

CompTIA

CompTIA N+ - Basic Networking

CompTIA

Skills

  • VMWare ESXi
  • Data Center Operations
  • Data Migration
  • Server Migration
  • VMware Infrastructure
  • IT Infrastructure Management
  • System Monitoring
  • SSL Certificates
  • Desktop Computers
  • Enterprise Storage
  • Veeam Backup & Replication
  • VMware vSphere
  • Microsoft 365 Defender
  • MS Project
  • System Administration
  • Active Directory
  • Windows Server
  • Servers
  • Network Administration
  • Project Planning
  • DHCP
  • Troubleshooting
  • Infrastructure
  • DNS
  • Windows
  • Project Management
  • XP
  • Software Documentation
  • Software Installation
  • VMware
  • Cisco Technologies
  • Windows 7
  • Switches
  • MS Visio
  • Firewalls
  • Server Clustering
  • SAN
  • Blade Systems
  • Windows 8
  • Windows XP
  • Microsoft Project
  • Information Technology
  • Server Administration
  • ITIL
  • System Deployment
  • Virtual Private Network (VPN)
  • Operations Management
  • Computer Hardware
  • Service Improvement
  • Hyper-V
  • IT Management
  • Microsoft Azure
  • Microsoft Cluster
  • Cloud Administration
  • Azure Active Directory
  • Cloud Computing
  • Network Security
  • IT Operations
  • IT troubleshooting
  • IT documentation
  • Information security
  • System upgrades
  • Network administration
  • IT risk management
  • Technical documentation
  • Disaster recovery
  • Virtualization technologies
  • Quality assurance testing
  • ITIL framework
  • IT consulting
  • System design and deployment
  • IT service management
  • Network configuration

Accomplishments

Department of Home Affairs - ABIS Project

Department of Home Affairs - ID-Card Project

TechniMove - Azure to on-prem VM-Ware Migration Project

TechniMove - AWS Security Assessment

Gijima - SITA Cloud Suite Project

Interests

Hiking, Boxing, Gym, Gaming, LABS

Certification

  • MCTS Microsoft Server Virtualization
  • MCITP Microsoft Enterprise Administrator
  • AZURE204x Azure Identity
  • AZURE202x Azure Virtual Machines
  • ManageEngine MECPA ManageEngine ADAudit Plus
  • VM-Ware VM-Ware Administrator
  • HPE OneView HPE OneView 18
  • ManageEngine MECPA ManageEngine AD Manager Plus
  • CEH Certified Ethical Hacker
  • AZ-900 Azure Fundamentals
  • ManageEngine MECPA ManageEngine OpManager
  • A+ CompTIA A+
  • N+ CompTIA N+
  • Linux+ CompTIA Linux+
  • Veeam Veeam Certified Engineer

Languages

Afrikaans
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)

Courses

  • AWS Cloud Practitioner
  • AWS Well Architected
  • Information Security 101
  • Azure Fundamentals
  • ManageEngine UEMS
  • Azure AD Basics
  • Azure Management Tools
  • Azure Network Security
  • Linux+
  • Veeam VMCE 13

Hobbies

  • Gym
  • Boxing
  • Gaming
  • Creating & Testing LABS
  • Hiking

Timeline

IT Specialist

Paracon
01.2024 - Current

Technical Consultant

Technimove
12.2023 - 10.2024

Senior System Engineer

MVT Technologies
08.2021 - 12.2023

Information Technology Technical Manager

Gijima
04.2020 - 08.2021

Technical Team Leader

EOH
05.2015 - 04.2020

Server & Microsoft Consultant

EOH
10.2013 - 04.2015

Network & Systems Administrator

Murray & Roberts
06.2011 - 07.2013

Network & Systems Consultant

ESI (Enterprise Systems Implementation)
04.2010 - 06.2011

IT Consultant

F1 Information Solutions
03.2007 - 04.2010

Desktop Technician

AST
01.2001 - 02.2007

High School Diploma - Basic Networking

CompTIA

VCP - VM-Ware

Pearson

VMCE - Veeam

Pearson

MCTS - Microsoft Server Virtualization

Bytes Technology Group

MCITP - Microsoft Enterprise Administrator

Bytes Technology Group

AZURE204x - Azure Identity

Microsoft Acadamy

AZURE202x - Azure Virtual Machines

Microsoft Academy

HPE OneView - HPE OneView 18

HPE Academy

MECPA - ManageEngine Monitoring Suite

Zoho Training

CEH - Ethical Haccking

Skills Academy

AZ-900 - Azure Fundamentals

Microsoft Academy

CompTIA A+ - Basic Computing Hardware

CompTIA

CompTIA Linux+ - Basic Linux

CompTIA

CompTIA N+ - Basic Networking

CompTIA
Stephen Putter