Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Additional Information
Timeline
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MARTIN KARANU MACHARIA

Nairobi

Summary

A highly oriented, self-driven, amicable with a strong drive to success, and hardworking individual, with a great background in information technology and internal networking systems, resilient, possess interpersonal skills, a team player, proven ability to plan, organize, coordinate and prioritize local and cloud server systems. CORE COMPETENCES Network Administration: Extensive experience in managing LAN and WAN environments, including the configuration and maintenance of routers, switches, and firewalls. Proficient in optimizing network performance and ensuring seamless connectivity. Server Management: Proven track record in administering and maintaining servers, including Windows and Linux environments. Expertise in Active Directory management, server virtualization, and backup solutions. Security and Compliance: Strong focus on IT security, including firewall management, antivirus deployment, and implementation of security policies. Knowledgeable in compliance with industry standards and regulations. Cloud Solutions: Proficient in designing, deploying, and managing cloud-based solutions, including Microsoft 365, Azure, and Amazon Web Services AWS. Skilled in migration strategies and ensuring data integrity in cloud environments. Software and Application Management: Extensive experience in software deployment, license management, and ensuring optimal performance of critical business applications. Proficient in troubleshooting and resolving software-related issues. IT Infrastructure Planning: Proven ability to assess organizational IT needs, plan for hardware and software acquisitions, and implement cost-effective solutions. Skilled in capacity planning and scalability. Team Leadership and Training: Adept at leading IT teams, providing guidance, and fostering a collaborative work environment. Experienced in training staff on new technologies and best practices. Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity: Expertise in developing and implementing disaster recovery plans to minimize downtime and ensure business continuity in the event of a crisis. Vendor Management: Proficient in managing relationships with IT vendors, negotiating contracts, and ensuring timely delivery of services and products. Troubleshooting and Technical Support: Strong problem-solving skills with a track record of efficiently diagnosing and resolving complex IT issues.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience

Work History

IT Administrator

East and Central Africa Logistics
02.2024 - Current
  • A midsized Logistics company with over 100 trucks and 200 staff offering cargo transport services across Africa
  • Network Management and Security:
  • Design, implement, and manage the company's network infrastructure to ensure reliable connectivity across all 5 locations
  • Working hand in hand with the various internet ISPs to Monitor network performance and troubleshoot any issues to minimize downtime
  • Implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect the company's data and systems from cyber threats
  • Server and Database Administration:
  • Overseeing the installation, configuration, and maintenance of the company’s Domain servers and databases and integration with Microsoft 365
  • Ensure data integrity and availability through regular backups and disaster recovery planning
  • Optimize database performance and manage user access controls
  • User Support and Training:
  • Provide technical support to employees, resolving hardware, software, and network issues promptly
  • Conduct training sessions to keep staff updated on new technologies and IT policies
  • Software Management:
  • Manage the deployment and maintenance of business-critical applications and software such as their cloud based ERP system, website and truck tracking system.
  • Work with various departments to understand their software needs and provide appropriate solutions
  • IT Policy and Compliance:
  • Develop and enforce IT policies and procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations
  • Regularly review and update IT policies to adapt to new security challenges and technological advancements
  • Project Management:
  • Lead IT projects, such as system upgrades, new software implementations, and infrastructure improvements
  • Coordinate with vendors and service providers to ensure timely and cost-effective project completion
  • Asset Management:
  • Maintain an inventory of IT assets, including hardware and software licenses
  • Plan for and manage the lifecycle of IT assets, ensuring timely upgrades and replacements.

IT Support Engineer

ONQ
01.2023 - 02.2024
  • International Healthcare Outsourcing
  • A multinational US medical billing and healthcare outsourcing company with over 1000 staff across
  • Kenya, India and Panama, Oversee and ensure the smooth operation of various client systems, including but not limited to:
  • Citrix workspace
  • Imagine
  • Resolve
  • Avaya
  • Xima
  • Ring Central
  • Vonage Business
  • Webex
  • Conduct routine checks, updates, and troubleshooting to guarantee uninterrupted services
  • Hardware and Software Support:
  • Provide hands-on support to agents, addressing their diverse ICT hardware and software needs
  • Diagnose and resolve technical issues promptly to minimize downtime and ensure productivity
  • Network Administration:
  • Monitor and maintain the organization's network infrastructure, including routers, switches, and firewalls
  • Implement security protocols to safeguard against unauthorized access and potential cyber threats
  • Monitor and maintain the organization's network infrastructure, including routers, switches, and firewalls
  • Administer Active Directory services, managing user accounts, group policies, and security configurations
  • Oversee server management, ensuring optimal performance, security, and reliability
  • Handle Microsoft 365 administration, including user provisioning, email configuration, and security settings
  • User Training and Documentation:
  • Conduct training sessions for agents to enhance their proficiency in utilizing ICT tools and applications
  • Create and maintain user-friendly documentation for common troubleshooting procedures and IT resources
  • System Upgrades and Implementations:
  • Plan and execute system upgrades to leverage the latest technologies and improve overall performance
  • Collaborate with relevant teams to implement new software or hardware solutions as needed
  • Backup and Disaster Recovery:
  • Develop and implement backup strategies to safeguard critical data against loss or corruption
  • Establish and test disaster recovery protocols to ensure business continuity in the event of unforeseen incidents
  • Security and Compliance:
  • Monitor and enforce security protocols to protect sensitive information and ensure compliance with industry regulations
  • Stay up-to-date with industry best practices and emerging security threats
  • IT Procurement and Vendor Management:
  • Assist in the procurement of IT hardware and software, ensuring compatibility and cost- effectiveness
  • Manage relationships with IT vendors, ensuring timely delivery and quality service
  • Performance Monitoring and Optimization:
  • Utilize monitoring tools to track system performance and identify areas for improvement
  • Implement optimization strategies to enhance efficiency and responsiveness of IT systems
  • Incident Response and Problem Resolution:
  • Respond promptly to IT incidents, diagnosing root causes and implementing effective solutions
  • Document incident reports and implement preventive measures to reduce recurrence.

Catholic Archdiocese of Nyeri
03.2018 - 01.2023
  • Designed, developed, and implemented the ICT policy for the archdiocese across all 52 Parishes and 35 Institutions
  • Developed the Archdiocese of Nyeri ICT strategy, which identifies the future direction of the use of technology, including solutions and opportunities to improve institutions' delivery and business units’ performance
  • This included budgeting and preparation of business cases
  • Managed the ICT infrastructure and was responsible for delivering ICT solutions, project managing their implementation
  • This included the cloud ERP solution for the business units, online school systems for the schools, and church management systems for the parishes
  • Designed and developed the websites for the institutions in the archdiocese
  • Managed hardware and software for information and communication technology, networks, computer systems, and VOIP telephony systems
  • Provided and managed internet services to the institutions of the Archdiocese.

IT Sub Contractor

Spectrum Engineering
08.2017 - 03.2018
  • Oversaw a team of 25 technicians in the NOFBI II Expansion project, a significant phase of the
  • National Fiber Optic Backbone project
  • In charge of the installation and configuration of fiber optic equipment for the NOFBI project across multiple locations, including Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, and Kiambu Counties.

Network Administrator

Kinde Engineering
06.2013 - 08.2017
  • Airtel Kenya IP_RAN access networks):
  • Installed and configured Aeronautical Telecommunications Network routers for all Airtel Nairobi
  • Area sites
  • Huawei Technologies LAN and WAN for National Fibre Optic Backbone):
  • Installed, configured, and maintained county network LAN and fibre systems, facilitating connectivity between county commissioner offices, governors, and hospitals in alignment with the Government of Kenya's Vision 2030
  • Safaricom Kenya Long term evolution Wireless Networks):
  • Installed, configured, and maintained LTE networks, enabling 4G capability for mobile phones.

ICT Assistant Manager

Fidelity Commercial Bank
09.2011 - 06.2013
  • Managed the Bank's network system, overseeing LAN and WAN operations
  • Provided system usage training, support, and troubleshooting for internal staff
  • Conducted customer care training for bank staff on how to effectively assist clients using the system
  • Managed CISCO routers to ensure smooth network operations
  • Administered Active Directory to maintain user accounts and security configurations
  • Offered IT training and support to bank staff, ensuring proficiency in system usage
  • Implemented backup and maintenance procedures for bank servers and user PCs
  • Managed and maintained the Email server and DNS server to ensure uninterrupted communication
  • Oversaw software management, ensuring all banking staff had the necessary programs and operated them according to requirements
  • This included banking-related software, antivirus programs, word processing, and database management
  • Managed the Firewall Cyberoam) to enhance security measures
  • Handled Internet and point-to-point links, ensuring connectivity and reliability
  • Collaborated with third-party providers to ensure all bank systems operated smoothly.

Education

BSc - Information Technology

KCA University Nairobi

Advanced Diploma - Networking

Compuera College

Advance Diploma - Compuer Electronic Engineering

Compuera College

Skills

  • Remote Support
  • Software Installation
  • Hardware troubleshooting
  • IT Asset Management
  • Network Administration
  • Disaster Recovery
  • IT Infrastructure
  • Help Desk Management
  • System Security
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Excellent Communication

Additional Information

  • ACHIEVEMENTS Implememntation of the cloud based ERP system for East and Central Africa Logistics company and starting the journey to have a paperless organization across all 5 locations in Africa. Being part of the IT team overseeing 1200 agents spanning Kenya, India, and Panama, responsible for ensuring seamless connectivity and system operations for clients in the United States. Developed and implemented a forward-looking ICT strategy for the Archdiocese of Nyeri, resulting in a remarkable 55% increase in operational efficiency over a span of 5 years. Formulated the ICT policy for the Archdiocese of Nyeri and introduced cutting-edge Fibre optic internet solutions, significantly enhancing connectivity and efficiency. Led a team that migrated Fidelity Bank's banking system from Bankers Realm to Oracle, ensuring seamless operations across all 8 branches in Kenya.

Timeline

IT Administrator

East and Central Africa Logistics
02.2024 - Current

IT Support Engineer

ONQ
01.2023 - 02.2024

Catholic Archdiocese of Nyeri
03.2018 - 01.2023

IT Sub Contractor

Spectrum Engineering
08.2017 - 03.2018

Network Administrator

Kinde Engineering
06.2013 - 08.2017

ICT Assistant Manager

Fidelity Commercial Bank
09.2011 - 06.2013

BSc - Information Technology

KCA University Nairobi

Advanced Diploma - Networking

Compuera College

Advance Diploma - Compuer Electronic Engineering

Compuera College
MARTIN KARANU MACHARIA