Suleman Manji
With extensive experience in IT consulting, I specialize in cloud services, privileged access management, and automation—driven by a passion for leveraging technology to amplify human potential. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Management of Information Systems from the University of Houston’s Bauer School of Business, I combine academic knowledge with practical expertise to navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape effectively. My relentless curiosity fuels a commitment to continuous learning, often immersing myself in science documentaries and innovative engineering practices.
I have a proven track record of executing technical projects, enhancing security postures, and driving operational efficiencies across diverse organizational settings. My ability to demystify complex technical concepts and collaborate seamlessly with cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and clients has been instrumental in achieving shared goals and delivering measurable value.
Contact
- Mobile: 281.904.1969
- Email: ssmanji89@gmail.com
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sulemanmanji
Education
- Bachelor of BA in Management Information Systems; University of Houston-Bauer College of Business - Houston, TX; January 2009 to May 2013
- Certificate in Corporate Entrepreneurship; University of Houston - Houston, TX; June 2011 to January 2012
- Certificate in Corporate Intrapreneurship; University of Houston - Houston, TX; January 2012 to June 2012
Professional Experience
StackAdvisors, LLC - Denver, CO
Integrations Manager / Interim Azure C# .NET Engineer
March 2023 - August 2023
In this role, I took on dual responsibilities: leading integration projects while serving as an interim engineer for Azure C# .NET applications. My efforts focused on improving architectural, performance, and deployment aspects of critical systems, leveraging my expertise in Azure, .NET C# Blazor, and CI/CD methodologies via Azure DevOps.
Key Achievements:
- Architectural Optimization
- Identified and resolved key architectural bottlenecks in a .NET C# Blazor Server application.
- Proposed and implemented optimization strategies, leading to a 20% improvement in application response times.
- Azure Monitoring & Error Management
- Integrated Azure monitoring tools for real-time system insights.
- Reduced error identification time by 35% and minimized system downtime through efficient monitoring.
- Addressed and significantly reduced Server 500 errors by 70%, improving stability and user experience.
- Infrastructure & Hosting Optimization
- Conducted a strategic review of Azure-hosted infrastructure, optimizing performance parameters.
- Achieved a 40% reduction in hosting costs without compromising on performance.
- CI/CD Process Enhancement
- Revamped CI/CD pipelines using Azure DevOps, ensuring seamless, automated deployments.
- Reduced deployment failures by 50% and shortened release cycles, enabling faster time-to-market.
- Application Performance Improvement
- Consolidated app registration within Azure, improving application load times by 25%.
- Quality Assurance & Load Testing
- Led the implementation of rigorous load testing procedures using Azure-based tools to validate system scalability.
- Ensured the system’s readiness to handle real-world traffic, supporting future scalability needs.
- Scalability Adjustments
- Improved architectural scalability to accommodate increased traffic and system demands.
- Ensured a smooth user experience during peak traffic, preparing the system for future growth.
Impact:
- Fostered a culture of continuous improvement and cross-functional collaboration.
- Delivered significant improvements in system performance, cost-efficiency, and user satisfaction.
- Demonstrated technical expertise and leadership by aligning project deliverables with business objectives, driving success for both StackAdvisors and its clients.
Fulcrum Technology (FTSC) - Various Projects
Technical SME, Engineer, Project Manager, and Other Engineering Roles
Throughout my time at Fulcrum Technology, I served in various capacities across multiple projects, demonstrating adaptability, technical expertise, and a results-driven approach. I worked on diverse projects that spanned cybersecurity, cloud migrations, privileged access management, and incident response, aligning technology with client objectives to deliver impactful solutions.
Project: CyberArk Endpoint Privileges Management
Led the optimization of CyberArk Endpoint Management, improving security protocols and system efficiency.
- Policy Reconciliation & Optimization: Conducted in-depth policy audits, identifying inconsistencies and optimizing policies, reducing operational delays and improving system responsiveness.
- Agent Upgrades: Directed agent upgrades, ensuring systems met the latest security standards and performance benchmarks, enhancing the overall security posture.
Project: CorePAS Azure Deployment (International)
Played a key role in ensuring GDPR compliance and system integrity during a critical Azure deployment project.
- GDPR Compliance & Data Migration: Managed the migration of sensitive data to Azure resources, adhering to GDPR and leveraging Azure’s security frameworks.
- System Parity Across Active Directory Domains: Ensured parity and security across multiple Enterprise Active Directory Domain implementations, minimizing security risks post-migration.
- Collaboration with Support Teams: Facilitated collaboration between application and operational support teams, ensuring smooth post-deployment operations.
Project: VMWare Security Posture Reporting using vCenter via Powershell / perl
Architected a security reporting system to enhance VMWare infrastructure security across multiple regions.
- Security Posture Reporting: Developed a comprehensive reporting system using vCenter and PowerShell, providing real-time security insights.
- CIS Level Compliance Integration: Used CIS compliance as benchmarks, with data relayed to Splunk collectors to fortify security monitoring.
Project: CyberArk PrivilegeCloud Implementation
Led the migration to CyberArk PrivilegeCloud to enhance privileged access management (PAM).
- KeePass to CyberArk Migration: Spearheaded the seamless migration from KeePass to CyberArk PrivilegeCloud, ensuring no data loss or downtime.
- Credential Rotation Program: Established automated credential rotation for priority Active Directory accounts, significantly improving security protocols.
- Internal Access Processes: Designed robust internal processes for managing privileged access, enhancing overall system governance.
Project: Major Ransomware Incident Response
Directed a critical incident response following a ransomware attack, rebuilding core infrastructure and strengthening security measures.
- Active Directory Domain Rebuild: Collaborated with architects and engineers to rebuild the compromised domain and network infrastructure, creating a more secure foundation.
- Enhanced IT Security Measures: Implemented CortexEDR, TaniumXDR, and industry-standard security policies, reducing the potential for future security breaches.
Project: Directory Services for Hospital System
Architected a secure and efficient directory service infrastructure, improving administrative efficiency and access times.
- Azure Global Admin Access: Implemented shared Azure Global Administrator access using PowerShell, streamlining administrative processes and improving security.
- Hybrid Azure Active Directory Optimization: Utilized PowerShell and ServiceNOW to optimize directory services, achieving a 30% improvement in directory access times.
Project: Vendor Selection for Global Networking Solutions Provider
Developed a comprehensive, data-driven process for vendor selection, ensuring compliance and focus on privileged access management.
- Vendor Selection Worksheet: Designed a metrics-based Vendor Selection Worksheet using Excel and surveys, providing a robust, data-driven framework for vendor evaluation.
- Multinational Compliance Focus: Ensured that vendor selection met multinational compliance requirements, particularly in privileged access and cybersecurity.
Houston IT Tech, LLC. - Technical and Operations Architect - Houston, TX (December 2019 - February 2020)
In this role at Houston IT Tech, LLC., I wore multiple hats as both a technical and operations architect, focusing on optimizing operational processes and enhancing the technical infrastructure to ensure seamless service delivery and improved client engagement. My journey showcased a blend of technical ingenuity and operational acumen, leading to substantial improvements in service desk operations, client engagement, and SharePoint architecture.
- Remote Service Desk Standardization:
- Established Remote Service Desk standard operating processes, creating a structured framework that enhanced service delivery, reduced response times by 25%, and improved customer satisfaction.
- Implemented a ticketing system that streamlined issue tracking and resolution, ensuring timely and efficient service delivery.
- Client Engagement Process Optimization:
- Established Client Engagement processes, fostering stronger relationships and clearer communication channels between our team and the clients.
- Developed feedback loops with clients to continuously improve engagement processes, leading to a 15% improvement in client satisfaction ratings.
- SharePoint Permissions Overhaul:
- Led the development, iteration, and implementation of a SharePoint permissions overhaul, ensuring robust data access control and compliance with industry security standards.
- Conducted training sessions for staff on the new permissions framework, ensuring a smooth transition and adherence to the new processes.
- SharePoint Data Storage Architecture Revamp:
- Developed, iterated, and implemented a new SharePoint Data Storage Architecture, ensuring organized, secure, and easily accessible data storage solutions.
- The revamp led to a 30% improvement in data retrieval times and enhanced data security.
- Physical Hardware Installations and Migrations:
- Coordinated and executed physical hardware installations and migrations, ensuring minimal downtime and smooth transitions.
- Successfully completed migrations within stipulated timelines, ensuring business continuity and achieving a 100% success rate in data integrity.
Throughout this tenure, the blend of technical expertise with a methodical approach to operations significantly contributed to enhancing the operational efficiency and technical robustness at Houston IT Tech, LLC. The solutions crafted and implemented during this period laid a strong foundation for the organization’s technical and operational infrastructure.
Zakoil, LLC / Lonestar Petroleum / Sugar Land Petroleum - Houston, TX
Systems Administrator/Technology Consultant (April 2017 - October 2019)
At the heart of the bustling energy sector in Houston, I embraced the role of Systems Administrator and Technology Consultant across three esteemed organizations. My tenure was marked by a holistic approach towards system stabilization, back-office processing optimization, remote site operations, and robust disaster recovery planning. Through a meticulous blend of technology and operational strategies, I fortified infrastructural stability and business continuity protocols.
- Windows SBS 2011 Stabilization:
- Conducted a thorough audit and stabilization of Windows Small Business Server (SBS) 2011 environment, ensuring a reliable and secure server infrastructure.
- Optimized server performance, reducing downtime by 40% and ensuring seamless network operations.
- PDI Back-office Processing System Optimization:
- Spearheaded the optimization of the PDI (Back-office Processing System), enhancing processing efficiency and data accuracy.
- Streamlined data processing workflows, reducing processing time by 30% and ensuring timely reporting and decision-making.
- Remote Site Physical Paperwork Collection Process:
- Established a “Remote Site Physical Paperwork Collection Process”, leveraging digital tools to automate and streamline paperwork collection from remote sites.
- This initiative led to a 50% reduction in paperwork processing time, ensuring timely and accurate data collection.
- Global Disaster Recovery Policies Establishment:
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Formulated and established Global Disaster Recovery policies, setting a strong foundation for business continuity in case of unforeseen events.
- Windows Backup for SBS Infrastructure:
- Implemented Windows Backup solutions for SBS Infrastructure, ensuring reliable data backup and quick recovery in case of system failures.
- Corporate Files Access via Google Drive and Azure Files:
- Established secure and accessible file storage solutions using Google Drive and Azure Files, enabling seamless corporate file access and collaboration.
- Redundancy and Accessibility with Azure Blob Storage:
- Leveraged Azure Blob Storage for additional redundancy and accessibility, ensuring data availability even under adverse conditions.
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The amalgamation of technical foresight with a systematic approach towards operational enhancement significantly bolstered the technological resilience and operational efficacy across Zakoil, LLC, Lonestar Petroleum, and Sugar Land Petroleum. The infrastructural and procedural enhancements implemented during this period substantially contributed to the streamlined operations and robust disaster recovery readiness, setting a new benchmark in operational excellence within the organizations.
ERGOS Technology - Various Roles (December 2011 - April 2017)
Senior Automation Architect (May 2015 - April 2017)
Embarking on the voyage as a Senior Automation Architect, I plunged into the depths of automation, streamlining client onboarding processes through the adept use of LabTech (now ConnectWise Automate). This tenure was an expedition of technical innovation, process automation, and client-centric solutions development, ensuring a seamless onboarding experience for the clients.
- Advanced Client Onboarding Features Development:
- Innovated and deployed advanced client onboarding features within LabTech, significantly streamlining the initial setup process for new clients and ensuring a smooth transition into our service ecosystem.
- Advanced Client Location Onboarding Processes:
- Crafted and implemented sophisticated client location onboarding processes within LabTech, enabling precise and efficient setup of client locations in our system, thereby enhancing the overall service delivery.
- Advanced Client Onboarding Processes:
- Developed and set forth advanced client onboarding processes within LabTech, ensuring a seamless, efficient, and error-free integration of new clients into our service delivery framework.
- Advanced Client User Onboarding Processes:
- Engineered and rolled out advanced client user onboarding processes within LabTech, ensuring a hassle-free setup of user accounts and associated configurations, markedly improving the user experience.
- Advanced Client User Department Onboarding Processes:
- Formulated and executed advanced client user department onboarding processes within LabTech, ensuring accurate and streamlined setup of departmental configurations, thereby fostering a well-organized and efficient service delivery.
Network Operations Manager (May 2015 - November 2016)
As a Network Operations Manager, my journey was about leveraging big data analytics, honing resource planning, exploring business development opportunities, and innovating in key performance indicators and programmatic systems. The essence of this role was to amplify operational efficiencies, enhance service delivery, and foster business growth through technical innovation and strategic planning.
- Big Data Analysis for Logging and Reporting:
- Spearheaded big data analysis initiatives, scrutinizing logging and reporting efforts across 15,000 Windows Workstations and 3,000 Windows Servers.
- The in-depth examinations significantly benefited various organizational facets, laying a solid foundation for informed decision-making and optimized system performance.
- Resource Planning:
- Orchestrated resource planning efforts for approximately 90 technical resources, spanning from Remote Consultants and Field Engineers to Account Engineering Executives.
- This strategic planning amplified Support Desk efficiencies in engaging with End Users, ensuring timely and effective resolution of technical issues.
- Business Development Opportunities for Professional Services:
- Unveiled business development opportunities for Professional Services, utilizing tools like Quosal, ConnectWise, and BrightGauge for:
- Systems Upgrades, Solutions Consulting, Services Consulting, Implementations, Migrations, and more.
- These initiatives fueled the expansion of service offerings, driving business growth and customer satisfaction.
- Unveiled business development opportunities for Professional Services, utilizing tools like Quosal, ConnectWise, and BrightGauge for:
- KPI Brainstorming and Development:
- Engaged in KPI brainstorming and development, setting clear performance benchmarks and monitoring organizational progress towards predefined goals.
- Programmatic Systems for Autonomous Response Activities:
- Developed and implemented Programmatic Systems for Autonomous Response activities, integrating time-tracking mechanisms.
- This innovation led to an astonishing 1000x amplification in human effort, significantly accelerating response times and operational efficiencies.
- Third-Party Application Patching System:
- Crafted and deployed a third-party application patching system across the Windows Device Landscape, ensuring up-to-date and secure software deployments.
Network Operations/Automation Consultant (September 2013 - May 2015)
Evolving into the role of Network Operations/Automation Consultant, the spectrum of responsibilities broadened, embodying an enhanced focus on Programmatic Systems Administration, big data analytics, and advanced diagnostic routines. This journey was about scaling the pinnacle of technical innovation, leveraging data analytics, and crafting sophisticated programs to fortify the organizational IT infrastructure.
- Expansion of Technical Consultant Role:
- Transitioned from the Technical Consultant role, carrying forward and expanding upon the technical and mentoring responsibilities, with a deeper dive into programmatic systems administration topics.
- Big Data-Driven Windows Monitoring Program Development:
- Spearheaded the development of a Windows Monitoring Program aided by big data analytics, ensuring real-time monitoring and analysis of system performance and security metrics.
- Utilized big data tools to aggregate and analyze system data, enabling proactive identification of potential issues and optimizing system performance.
- Advanced Windows Security Patching Program:
- Developed and implemented an advanced Windows Security Patching Program, elevating the organizational security posture.
- Innovatively leveraged analytics scraped from Reddit and Google to stay abreast of the latest security patches and vulnerabilities, ensuring a fortified and up-to-date security infrastructure.
- Advanced Windows Diagnostics Routines:
- Crafted and deployed advanced Windows Diagnostics Routines in-response to Events, ensuring swift identification and rectification of system anomalies.
- The diagnostic routines significantly reduced system downtime and improved the response time to critical system events, thereby enhancing overall operational efficiency.
Technical Consultant (May 2013 - September 2013)
Transitioning into a Technical Consultant role, I not only carried forward the acumen acquired from my previous stint as a Support Consultant / Managed Services Intern but also ventured into new territories of program development and technical training. This period was characterized by a blend of technical expertise, mentorship, and program development, ensuring a legacy of well-structured programs and well-equipped technical resources.
- Continuation of Previous Role Responsibilities:
- Continued to excel in providing both remote technical support and adeptly handling on-site field escalations, system debugging, and disaster/incident response processes as carried out in my prior role.
- Further honed and applied automation skills in corporate device onboarding, along with upholding the standardized documentation techniques.
- Formalization of Internship Program:
- Aided in formalizing the Internship Program, crafting a structured and enriching learning environment for future interns to glean practical experience akin to my journey.
- Collaborated in designing a comprehensive curriculum, ensuring a blend of practical exposure and theoretical knowledge for the interns.
- Development of Technical Resources Onboarding Program:
- Actively participated in the development of a Technical Resources Onboarding program, ensuring a smooth transition and effective assimilation of new technical resources into the organizational fabric.
- Created resourceful onboarding materials and conducted orientation sessions, bridging the knowledge gap and ensuring new recruits were well-versed with the organizational protocols and technical frameworks.
- Training of Technical Resources:
- Conducted training sessions for technical resources on Subject Matter Expertise including Automation, Remote Management and Support, Customer Service, Project Management, and Intrapreneurship.
- Enhanced the technical prowess and customer service skills of the team, contributing to improved service delivery and customer satisfaction.
Support Consultant / Managed Services Intern (December 2011 - May 2013)
Embarking on the professional journey in the realm of IT support and managed services, my stint as a Support Consultant and Managed Services Intern was replete with opportunities to delve into both remote and on-site technical support, system debugging, and disaster/incident response processes. This period was a testament to my proclivity for automation, standardized documentation, and adept handling of escalated field issues.
- Remote Technical Support:
- Provided exemplary remote technical support, resolving a myriad of client issues with a focus on minimizing downtime and enhancing system performance.
- On-site Field Escalations:
- Skillfully handled on-site field escalations, troubleshooting and rectifying complex technical issues to ensure seamless operations and client satisfaction.
- System Debugging:
- Engaged in rigorous system debugging to identify, isolate, and rectify system anomalies, contributing to improved system reliability and performance.
- Disaster/Incident Response Processes:
- Played a pivotal role in crafting and executing disaster/incident response processes, ensuring swift recovery and minimal operational disruption during unforeseen events.
- Corporate Device Onboarding Automation:
- Standardized and automated the processes of corporate device onboarding using PowerShell Scripts, LabTech, Run Once Registry Key, and a dash of General Systems Administrator Hackery. This initiative significantly expedited the onboarding process, ensuring a smooth transition for new hardware and software deployments.
- Standardized Documentation Techniques:
- Championed the adoption of standardized documentation techniques using a pre-Markdown format, fostering a culture of thorough documentation and knowledge sharing within the team.
Technical Proficiencies
- Cloud Platforms:
- Azure
- AWS
- GCP
- Scripting & Automation:
- PowerShell
- Shell Scripting
- Power Platform
- Python
- Database Management:
- Database Administration & Development
- Networking & Security:
- TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP
- VPN, LAN, WAN
- Network Firewalls, SSH
- Virtualization Technologies:
- VMware vSphere, vCenter
- Microsoft Hyper-V
- Operating Systems:
- Windows Server & Desktop
- Linux
- Privileged Access Management:
- CyberArk Endpoint Privilege Manager (Onsite)
- CyberArk PrivilegeCloud
- CyberArk Privileged Access Manager (Onsite)
- BeyondTrust PasswordVault
- Project Management:
- Agile, Scrum, Kanban
- Project Timeline Management
- IT Operations:
- NOC Oversight
- IT Infrastructure Implementations, Upgrades, Migrations and Deprecation
- Business Requirements Workflow Development
- Communication & Collaboration:
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Microsoft Teams
- Microsoft Planner / Project
- Microsoft Exchange
- Customer Service & Support:
- Technical Support
- Help Desk
- Client Services
- Training & Development:
- Training & Onboarding
- Technical Writing
Career Avenues
- Technical Writer: Transform technical knowledge into user-friendly guides, manuals, and documentation.
- Product Manager: Strategize, plan, and serve as a bridge between multiple departments, leveraging technical background as an advantage.
- Technology Consultant: Offer businesses strategic advice on technology stack, operations, and future investments.
- Sales Engineer or Solutions Architect: Explain technical products to potential clients or customize solutions as per their needs.
- Training & Development Specialist: Impart knowledge on technical tools, software applications, and best practices.
- Business Analyst: Align technological solutions with business goals through a keen understanding of both domains.
- Customer Success Manager: Ensure post-sale product success, coordinating with tech teams for issue resolutions.
- Technology Journalist or Blogger: Dive into emerging technologies, trends, and industry insights through written pieces.
- Technical Recruiter: Spot and onboard talent in the tech domain, understanding the intricacies of tech roles.
- Startup Advisor or Mentor: Guide budding startups, setting them on a path of strong technological foundation.
- R&D in Emerging Tech: Venture into new technological horizons like VR/AR, blockchain, or AI, with the robust support of a strong tech background.
Assessments
Conscientiousness (Proficient); September 2023; Full Results; Demonstrated well-organized, rule-abiding, and hard-working tendencies.
Technical Support (Proficient); November 2023; Full Results; Exhibited proficiency in performing software, hardware, and network operations.
Technical support: Customer situations — Proficient (Proficient); August 2020; Full Results; Shown adeptness in responding to technical support situations with sensitivity.
Analyzing Data (Proficient); October 2023; Full Results; Capable of interpreting and producing graphs, identifying trends, and drawing justifiable conclusions from data.
Project Timeline Management (Proficient); November 2023; Full Results; Exhibited ability in prioritizing and allocating time to effectively achieve project deliverables.
Work Motivation (Proficient); November 2023; Full Results; Displayed a high level of motivation and discipline applied toward work.