Amaka Odoh Cousin
Staten Island
Summary
Highly analytical and results-driven Information Security Analyst with extensive expertise in Risk Management Framework (RMF), Privileged Access Management (PAM), vulnerability management, and incident response. Proven ability to identify, assess, and mitigate complex security risks and threats across diverse environments. Adept at security control assessments, disaster recovery planning, and ensuring IT security compliance for both government (FISMA, FedRAMP, NIST) and commercial clients. Excels in fast-paced settings, leveraging strong critical thinking, communication, and interpersonal skills to drive impactful security initiatives.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
INFORMATION SECURITY ANALYST
New York State Department of Financial Services
11.2023 - 03.2024
- Automated incident response and log analysis, reducing response times by 30%.
- Collaborated with team to evaluate maturity assessments and system audit.
- Reviewed security questionnaires tailored to different IT Departments.
- Conducted comprehensive risk assessments to prioritize and guide security implementation strategies.
- Ensured continuous compliance by regularly reviewing system configurations against established security guidelines.
- Developed and delivered training materials on safe computing practices and risk management principles, enhancing organizational security posture.
- Provided guidance and support to colleagues on implementing robust data privacy practices.
- Managed Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&M) to track vulnerabilities and identify compliance gaps.
- Developed and maintained security playbooks to standardize incident response and security operations.
- Managed and led the successful implementation of Delinea-based Privileged Access Management (PAM) across the department, enhancing security posture and access control.
- Conducted internal audits to identify areas of improvement within the organization''s information security program.
- Collaborated with IT teams to ensure seamless integration of security measures into existing infrastructure.
INFORMATION SECURITY ANALYST
New Jersey Turnpike Authority
05.2022 - 05.2023
- Managed incident response and forensic investigations, effectively mitigating security breaches.
- A first-line of defense analyst examined evidence from vendors and control operations.
- Collaborated closely with cross-functional teams to build secure, scalable and reliable applications in fast paced, agile environment.
- Directed KnowBe4 security awareness training and conducted vulnerability scanning using Qualys.
- Administered Secret Server Cloud Vault and deployed Rapid7 scanning solutions.
- Utilized QRadar SIEM for security event monitoring and threat detection.
- Produced detailed risk reports and audit recommendations, informing strategic security decisions.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to design and implement robust CMDB solutions.
- Conducted security audits to identify vulnerabilities.
IT SECURITY ANALYST
Panthergon IT & Cyber Security Solutions, LLC
05.2018 - 04.2022
- Supported Assessment & Authorization (A&A) and continuous monitoring activities for diverse clients.
- Contributed to the development and implementation of security controls to maintain continuous compliance for client systems.
- Performed SOX audits, conducted risk assessments, and developed System Authorization Reports (SARS).
- Managed Nessus scans and maintained diligent POA&M tracking.
- Maintained NIST-based documentation and artifacts, ensuring regulatory adherence.
- Provided essential training and guidance on IT security topics, including password management and safe browsing.
- Authored comprehensive reports summarizing findings from cybersecurity investigations and data breaches.
- Documented computer security and emergency measures policies, procedures, and test results.
Education
B.Sc. - Accounting & Finance
Ambrose Ali University
Skills
- Risk management strategy
- Certification and accreditation expertise
- Data protection strategies
- Network security assessment
- POA&M management
- SIEM system administration
- Network protection strategies
- Proficient in ServiceNow CMDB administration
- Network identity management
- Cyber threat analysis
- Comprehensive vulnerability evaluation
- Project Management Support
- Risk evaluation and management
- Compliance management
- Security Awareness & Training
- Assessment & Authorization (A&A)
- IT Security Compliance
- Incident Response & Disaster Recovery
- Experience with Nessus and Qualys
- Skilled in MacOS navigation
- Cybersecurity asset management
- Comprehensive systems risk analysis
- SDLC management
Certification
ISC2 Certificate in Cybersecurity
Timeline
INFORMATION SECURITY ANALYST
New York State Department of Financial Services
11.2023 - 03.2024
INFORMATION SECURITY ANALYST
New Jersey Turnpike Authority
05.2022 - 05.2023
IT SECURITY ANALYST
Panthergon IT & Cyber Security Solutions, LLC
05.2018 - 04.2022
B.Sc. - Accounting & Finance
Ambrose Ali University
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