Eric Blankenburg
Chicago,IL
Summary
Resourceful, transformational, and growth-oriented IT professional with 21+ years of verifiable achievements leading and managing complex technical projects, optimizing IT-based solutions, driving operational excellence, and leading enterprise network systems planning, design, configuration, and management. Repeatedly recognized as a leader and entrepreneur- overseeing cross-functional teams and stakeholders to assess business needs, providing strategic IT recommendations, risk assessments, performance evaluations, and innovative solutions that align with organizational goals, seamlessly transitioning on-premises infrastructures to scalable and secure environments. A dedicated system security expert with exceptional communication and resolution skills, proficient in fortifying deployment and management processes using advanced automation techniques and robust cybersecurity methodologies, committed to staying updated on the latest emerging technologies and industry trends to drive innovation and provide cutting-edge security solutions.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Information Technology Director
Genuvend, LLC
01.2007 - Current
- Orchestrated and directed a proficient team of five programmers in the development of Genuinesigns, a Java-based online Software As A Service (SaaS) system
- Pioneered and successfully navigated the launch of Genuinesigns, a triumph that culminated in its strategic acquisition by a third party
- Demonstrated unwavering commitment by providing continuous updates and maintenance for Genuinesigns, ensuring it remains at the forefront of technological advancement
- Spearheaded the introduction and ongoing evolution of Sign-It and Signware, carving a niche for the brand in the competitive print service market
- Maintain an active role in overseeing updates and maintenance for Sign-It and Signware, assuring optimal performance and alignment with market expectations
- Innovated Readion, a groundbreaking text+speech hybrid for the eBook market, remains steadfast in providing timely updates and comprehensive maintenance.
Director
ISURF, INC
01.1996 - 01.2006
- Directed and steered a dynamic team of 7 proficient individuals, including programmers and artists, in the strategic development of original ISURF games for the PC Gaming market
- Conceptualized and brought to fruition DROP!, an original gaming masterpiece, achieving remarkable success in the highly competitive PC gaming market, garnering sales of an impressive 4 million units distributed across 10,000 locations
- Forged crucial agency representation in the fiercely competitive PC game industry and secured a pivotal contract with eGames, Inc
- For the nationwide distribution of DROP! and its subsequent iterations.
Information Technology Director
The National Conference for Community and Justice
01.1990 - 01.1995
- Strategically led the IT department overseeing 57 regional offices for the esteemed NCCJ, a non-profit organization, significantly reducing information costs by an impressive 85% through efficient networking solutions
- Pioneered the implementation of a nationwide network to centralize email and data services for all 57 offices, dramatically enhancing communication and collaboration across the organization
- Catalyzed a digital transformation by spearheading the digitization of the nationwide donor database, leading to a remarkable 70% year-over-year boost in fundraising efforts
- Effectively managed and directed a team of 57 direct reports, ensuring seamless operations and technological support for the regional offices, thus contributing to the organization's nationwide success.
Technical Sales Manager
Wolfram Research, Inc
01.1988 - 01.1990
- Personally selected by Stephen Wolfram at Wolfram Research, Inc
- During the critical development phase of Mathematica, showcasing unwavering dedication to ensuring its seamless market launch
- Drove formidable sales by expertly negotiating and securing site-wide licenses for Mathematica across prestigious universities globally, significantly amplifying product reach and uptake
- Pioneered a highly successful bulk license program for US government agencies, effectively tripling sales volume and greatly extending the reach and influence of Mathematica
- Demonstrated astute leadership by expanding the sales team to seven members, optimizing sales processes, and significantly enhancing overall efficiency
- Delivered impactful public speaking engagements at major trade shows and distinguished universities worldwide, effectively promoting Mathematica and broadening its user base.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering -
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
Skills
- Strategic Technology Planning and Implementation
- Cybersecurity and Risk Management
- Project Portfolio Leadership
- Infrastructure Architecture and Optimization
- Team Management and Leadership Development
- Change Management and Digital Transformation
- Vendor Relationship and Contract Management
- Financial Planning and Budget Management
- Compliance and Regulatory Oversight
- Emerging Technologies Integration
- Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery
- Cloud Solutions Strategy and Deployment
- Data Governance and Analysis
- Network Design and Administration
- IT Service Management and Delivery
- Software Development Lifecycle
- User Experience (UX) Optimization
- Collaboration and Communication Systems
- End-User Training and Support
- IT Governance and Policy Development
Timeline
Information Technology Director
Genuvend, LLC
01.2007 - Current
Director
ISURF, INC
01.1996 - 01.2006
Information Technology Director
The National Conference for Community and Justice
01.1990 - 01.1995
Technical Sales Manager
Wolfram Research, Inc
01.1988 - 01.1990
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering -
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
Career Highlights
- Strategic Technology Vision and Alignment: Exceptional in shaping a strategic technology vision that seamlessly aligns with and advances overall business objectives. Nationally sought-after for translating technology into a competitive advantage, ensuring future readiness.
- Cybersecurity Risk Management and Compliance Assurance: Demonstrated excellence in proactively managing cybersecurity risks and guaranteeing unwavering compliance with industry regulations.
- Talent Development and Inspirational Leadership: Renowned for attracting, nurturing, and leading top-tier IT teams. Celebrated for empowering talent, cultivating leadership excellence, and instilling a culture of relentless improvement.
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