Christopher Penalo
Summary
Hospitality executive transitioning into cybersecurity with a BS in Cybersecurity, focus in Cloud Computing and hands-on experience in threat detection, vulnerability assessments, and security automation. Combines operational leadership (10+ years managing teams, resolving critical incidents) with technical skills (Kali Linux, SIEM tools, Python scripting) to identify and mitigate risks. Passionate about applying problem-solving rigor from high-volume environments to protect infrastructure and data.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Operations Manager
KPOT Hot Pot & Korean BBQ
Kearny, NJ
09.2024 - Current
- Resolved 90% of POS system, printer, and back-office computer issues on-site, reducing downtime by 25% during peak hours.
- Configured and maintained POS systems across 10+ terminals, ensuring seamless integration with kitchen display systems, and improving order accuracy by 18%.
- Leveraged technical knowledge to explain system issues to customers in simple terms, maintaining a 4.8/5 customer satisfaction rating.
Student
Virtualized Ethical Hacking Lab
Wayne, NJ
02.2022 - Current
- Identified and mitigated over 50 simulated security threats, strengthening knowledge of network vulnerabilities.
- Developed custom scripts that automated penetration testing tasks, reducing manual effort by 40%.
- Conducted over 100 security assessments, improving hands-on expertise in ethical hacking methodologies.
Cloud Support Engineer Intern
Akamai Technologies
Cambridge, Remote
05.2024 - 09.2024
- Resolved 95% of security-related support tickets within SLA, minimizing client downtime.
- Assisted in deploying security patches that reduced vulnerability exploitation rates by 20%.
- Contributed 15+ documented solutions to the internal knowledge base for faster incident resolution.
IT Technical Support Specialist
WingSwept
Raleigh, NC
04.2023 - 05.2024
- Delivered training sessions for employees on cybersecurity best practices, resulting in a 25% reduction in security incidents.
- Implemented automated backup solutions, reducing data loss risk by 40%.
- Installed over 15+ server racks for new clients, ensuring secure and efficient network setups.
Senior Front of House Manager
Outback Steakhouse
Savannah, GA
01.2021 - 03.2023
- Improved customer satisfaction by 35% through streamlined service protocols, and enhanced staff training.
- Directed a team of 35+ employees in a high-volume environment, serving up to 500 guests nightly.
- Implemented a seating algorithm that enhanced service delivery and guest flow, boosting overall satisfaction and sales.
General Manager
Five Guys
Savannah, GA
04.2020 - 01.2022
- Achieved a 25% reduction in overhead costs by improving operational efficiency within the first year.
- Recruited, trained, and managed a diverse team of 30 employees, enhancing team performance and service quality.
- Maintained a high level of customer satisfaction by consistently delivering prompt, friendly service.
Education
Bachelor in Science - Cybersecurity, Focus in Cloud Computing
Purdue University Global
West Lafayette, INSkills
- Time management
- Leadership
- Technical Project Management
- Threat identification
- Log analysis
- SIEM Tools
- Forensic Investigation
- Kali Linux
- Metasploit
- Wireshark
- Splunk
- IDS/IPS
- TCP/IP
- VPN
- DNS
- Firewalls
- VLANs
- Python
- Bash
- SQL
- Vulnerability Patching
- Docker
Certification
- CompTIA A+, 02/01/24, 02/01/27
- Cisco CCNA, In Progress
- CompTIA Security+, In Progress
Languages
Spanish
Native/ Bilingual
Affiliations
- Bachelor in Cybersecurity Capstone Research paper on AI-Driven Cyber Attacks.
- Active participant in cybersecurity forums and CTF competitions.
- Continuous security learning with platforms such as TryHackMe and Cybrary.
- Volunteer IT support for local non-profit organizations.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Operations Manager
KPOT Hot Pot & Korean BBQ
09.2024 - Current
Cloud Support Engineer Intern
Akamai Technologies
05.2024 - 09.2024
IT Technical Support Specialist
WingSwept
04.2023 - 05.2024
Student
Virtualized Ethical Hacking Lab
02.2022 - Current
Senior Front of House Manager
Outback Steakhouse
01.2021 - 03.2023
General Manager
Five Guys
04.2020 - 01.2022
Bachelor in Science - Cybersecurity, Focus in Cloud Computing
Purdue University Global
Similar Profiles
Aisha OdusanyaAisha Odusanya
Server at KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot PotServer at KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot
Evangelista RestoEvangelista Resto
Service Manager at KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot PotService Manager at KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot
Marina AkimaMarina Akima
Server at KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot PotServer at KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot
ADEEB ANSAR SYEDADEEB ANSAR SYED
Operations Manager at WFM Technologies Pvt LtdOperations Manager at WFM Technologies Pvt Ltd
PRADEEP THILAGERPRADEEP THILAGER
Operations Manager at DASHFIX Hospitality ServicesOperations Manager at DASHFIX Hospitality Services