A results-driven network engineer with over 10 years of experience in designing, implementing, and optimizing LAN/WAN and SD-WAN networks. Recently promoted to Infrastructure Supervisor, managing a team of 3 technicians to oversee complex network infrastructure projects. Proven track record in reducing network downtime by up to 30% and operational costs by 25% through strategic planning, automation, and innovative solutions. Expertise in Cisco, Meraki, AWS, and Azure environments, with strong leadership, communication, and project management skills to drive efficiency, security, and compliance across diverse IT landscapes. Also a part-time lecturer at the Malawi School of Government, teaching "Computer Networks and Network Management" to 3rd-year students.
Hi, I’m
James Dalo
Lilongwe,Malawi
Summary
Overview
11
years of professional experience
1
Certification
Work History
Alliance One International
Infrastructure Supervisor
04.2024 - Current
Job overview
- Spearheaded the integration of the IT network with the SCADA/PLC network, enhancing security and compliance while increasing network availability.
- Managed a team of 3 technicians in maintaining critical infrastructure, leading to reduction in network downtime and improvement in response times
- Developed and implemented a proactive monitoring strategy that reduced network incidents by 40% and improved service availability that includes daily checks on the Factory floor, Warehouses and buying sites.
- Manage comprehensive disaster recovery plans, ensuring business continuity during critical events.
- Tested network's performance and created strategies to maintain integrity of overall infrastructure.
- Enhanced team performance through coaching, mentoring, and providing professional development opportunities for team members.
- Worked in team-driven environments and communicated effectively with stakeholders.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations and company policies, reducing potential risks and liabilities.
- Established key performance metrics to monitor infrastructure health and identify areas for improvement.
- Optimized resource allocation by closely monitoring project budgets and adjusting as needed to maintain financial goals.
Malawi School of Government
Part-Time Lecturer
06.2023 - Current
Job overview
- Teach "Computer Networks and Network Management" to 3rd-year students, covering advanced topics in network design, configuration, security, and management
- Develop course materials, lead lectures, and facilitate practical lab sessions to enhance students' understanding and skills in network engineering.
Alliance One International
Country Network Administrator
02.2020 - Current
Job overview
- Designed and implemented a secure, high-performance network infrastructure that increased overall efficiency by 40% and reduced costs by 25%
- Led a successful migration from Cisco to Cisco Meraki with less than 3% downtime, enhancing network management and visibility across the Alliance One Tobacco Malawi network
- Implemented server upgrades from HPE DL380 Gen 8 to Gen 10, maintaining less than 5% downtime, and achieving a 50% increase in server performance and reliability.
- Installed, configured and supported local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN) and Internet system with an up time of about 99.999%.
- Performed day-to-day LAN and WAN administration, maintenance, and support.
- Identified and immediately resolved issues with network devices.
- Spearheaded infrastructure projects from inception to completion, ensuring timely delivery within budget constraints.
- Authored documentation for system configuration and troubleshooting.
- Streamlined user support processes to ensure efficient problem resolution and minimize business disruption.
Inq. Digital Limited
Technical Projects Officer
07.2016 - 01.2020
Job overview
- Planned and designed the Skyband Fiber Metropolitan Network for Blantyre and Lilongwe
- Managed fiber main ring and customer installations, ensuring high-quality service delivery
- Led the Skyband Fiber installation team, coordinating new and upgraded installations with the Network Operations Center (NOC).
C3 Limited
IT Officer
06.2013 - 06.2016
Job overview
- Implemented and supported LAN/WAN infrastructure and system integration projects for clients, including ESCOM SCADA Network and Multichoice Queue Management system.
Education
Heriot-Watt UniversityEdinburgh, Scotland
MSc in Mobile Communication (Mobile Networks)
11.2010
University Overview
University of Malawi (Chancellor College)Zomba, Malawi
Bachelor of Education (Physics and Electronics)
08.2008
University Overview
Skills
- Technical Skills: Advanced Routing and Switching (BGP, OSPF), LAN/WAN, Cisco & Meraki SD-WAN, Network Automation (Python, Ansible), Open Source Network Monitoring, AD, DNS, DHCP, IIS Administration
- Cloud and Server Management: AWS and Azure Administration, Linux Administration, Server Virtualization
- Network Security: Next-Generation Firewalls, Network Security Management, Disaster Recovery Planning (DRP)
- Leadership and Management: Team Leadership, Project Management, Strategic Planning, Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Soft Skills: Effective Communication, Problem Solving, Stakeholder Management, Training and Mentorship
Certification
- CCNP Enterprise (ENCOR, ENSLD, ENARSI, ENSDWI)
- ECMS Engineering Cisco Meraki Specialist
- FAO Certified Fiber Optic Specialist/Design (CFOS/D)
- FAO Certified Fiber Optic Technician (CFO)
Professional Development
Professional Development
- Completed advanced training in AWS and Azure cloud environments, focusing on cloud security, architecture, and cost management.
- Regularly attend industry webinars and workshops on network automation, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies.
- Member of ICT Association of Malawi, actively participating in knowledge-sharing sessions and networking events.
Linkedinprofile
Linkedinprofile
LinkedIn Profile James Dalo
References
References
- Brandon Fernandes, African Regional Information Services Manager, Alliance One International, bfernandes@aointl.com
- Limbika Kanjadza, Managing Director, Inq. Digital Malawi, Limbika@inq.inc
- Chrispin Nchini, Information Services Manager Alliance One Tobacco Malawi, cfnchini@aointl.com
Projects
Projects
- Network Integration with SCADA/PLC Systems, Led a team to integrate the Alliance One IT network with the SCADA/PLC network, improving visibility and control over operational networks. This integration enhanced security protocols, ensured compliance with regulatory standards, and increased network availability by 20%.
- Server Upgrade and Migration, Directed the migration from HPE DL380 Gen 8 to Gen 10 servers in 2020, maintaining less than 5% downtime. This project improved server performance by 50%, enhanced reliability, and provided scalability for future growth.
- Switch Migration to Cisco Meraki, Managed the seamless transition from Cisco switches to Cisco Meraki for the Alliance One Tobacco Malawi network, achieving less than 3% downtime. The migration resulted in a 25% reduction in operational costs, simplified network management, and improved real-time network monitoring.
- Disaster Recovery Implementation, Designed and executed a comprehensive Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP) that automated failover processes, reducing potential downtime by 50%. This initiative ensured business continuity and minimized risks to critical systems.
- Fiber Network Expansion for Inq. Digital Limited, Spearheaded the expansion of the Skyband Fiber Metropolitan Network, increasing service reach by 30% and significantly enhancing customer satisfaction.
Timeline
Infrastructure Supervisor
Alliance One International
04.2024 - Current
Part-Time Lecturer
Malawi School of Government
06.2023 - Current
Country Network Administrator
Alliance One International
02.2020 - Current
Technical Projects Officer
Inq. Digital Limited
07.2016 - 01.2020
IT Officer
C3 Limited
06.2013 - 06.2016
Heriot-Watt University
MSc in Mobile Communication (Mobile Networks)
University of Malawi (Chancellor College)
Bachelor of Education (Physics and Electronics)