MARIANNE TAYLOR
Manassas,USA
Summary
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) SPECIALIST with over 30 years of progressive experience providing IT services, network planning, program and project management, and analysis and strategic planning. Expertise in IT operations management, video teleconferencing systems management and configuration, system security, troubleshooting, installation and maintenance of third-party software. Solid record of performance managing high value, high profile projects. Strong technical proficiency in network assessment, design and IT support, achieving on-time cost effective solutions. A persistent leader with strong business acumen and proven ability to balance short-term priorities against long-term organizational goals. Strong critical thinking, problem solving, research and liaison skills. Recognized for outstanding communication skills, flexibility, keen political savvy, leadership abilities and a sense of humor. Certified Cisco Specialist.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
TELECOMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST, GS-13
Secretary of Defense Communications, Department of Defense
04.2020 - Current
- TELECOMMUNICATIONS EXPERT: Manage and execute 300+ secure video teleconferences providing the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary access to the POTUS, cabinet-level officials, Foreign Minister counterparts and Heads of State using secure desktop and conference room video units, Defense Red Switch Network, and secure internet protocol across the Crisis Management System. Plan, develop, and implement troubleshooting of Local Area Networks (LAN), Wide Area Networks (WAN), and Virtual Private Networks (VPN) hardware to include switches, routers, and firewalls. Assure interoperability, integration and operation of installed hardware and software, and continuity of operations (computers, Cisco desktop video units, dedicated communications lines and telephone systems across multiple security platforms, classified copiers, wireless devices and video conferencing facilities. Identify network communication issues to ensure timely resolution. Plan and execute timely secure and non-secure teleconferences and video teleconferences for the Immediate office of the Secretary of Defense and principal staff while traveling abroad. Coordinate with different telecommunications service vendors to resolve problems.
- Expert decision-making skills: Made sound, well-informed, and objective decisions based on critical thinking principles and sound facts and data.
- TECHNICAL EXPERT AND ADVISOR: Direct and provide executive level support to the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Defense; all Under Secretaries; and Assistant Secretaries of Defense. Ensures the Secretary has secure communications resources to perform command and control functions. Advise internal staff on resource management policies and procedures. Make recommendations based on technical knowledge and understanding of government operations. Defend recommendations on controversial issues to management.
- DIAGNOSE, TROUBLESHOOT, AND REPAIR hardware and software application issues. Identify problems, determine accuracy and relevance of information. Detect if problems are caused by user error or hardware/software error. Use sound judgment to generate and evaluate alternatives and make recommendations. Proficient in identifying problems and recommending solutions. Evaluate alternatives and select reasonable and cost effective solutions. Provide advice, guidance, recommendations, and assistance to management and other technical specialists on critical network issues. Identify system security strengths and weaknesses and recommend and implement fixes.
- CUSTOMER SERVICE: Work with clients and customers to assess technology needs, provide technical information and assistance, resolve IT problems and satisfy expectations. Ensure quality customer service is provided to business owners with contract waiver coordination. Extensive knowledge about innovations in IT products and services and committed to providing quality products and services.
- ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS: Effectively express information to individuals or groups, taking into account the audience and nature of the information (for example, technical, sensitive, controversial). Communicate with vendors and apply suggestions provided by vendor technical support specialist. Prepare and present technical information, both orally and in writing, in a manner understood by the targeted audience. Utilize existing training material and other documentation to facilitate information sharing.
- BUILD AND MAINTAIN EFFECTIVE WORKING RELATIONSHIPS: Maintain liaison with staff and clients. Liaise with the White House Situation Room, Department of State, Defense Intelligence Agency, and National Security Agency operations centers in order to provide secure and non-secure communications support for the Secretary of Defense. Lead meetings and participate in cross-functional teams. Communicate effectively with team members and train others to accurately perform duties. Build credibility, establish rapport and maintain communication with stakeholders at multiple levels.
- Supervisor: Arnold Shaw, (703)692-7003 or (703)692-7000 Okay to contact: Yes
SECURE COMMUNICATIONS ENGINEER III
Information Resource Management-Secure Communications, Department of State
06.2015 - 04.2020
- TELECOMMUNICATIONS EXPERT: Manage and execute 300+ secure and non-secure teleconferences providing the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary access to the POTUS, cabinet-level officials, Foreign Minister counterparts and Heads of State using secure telephone equipment, Defense Red Switch Network, and secure internet protocol across the Crisis Management System. Plan, develop, and implement troubleshooting of Local Area Networks (LAN), Wide Area Networks (WAN), and Virtual Private Networks (VPN) hardware to include switches, routers, and firewalls. Assure interoperability, integration and operation of installed hardware and software, and continuity of operations (computers, Cisco desktop video units, , dedicated communications lines and telephone systems across multiple security platforms, classified copiers, wireless devices and video conferencing facilities. Identify network communication issues to ensure timely resolution. Plan and execute timely secure and non-secure teleconferences and video teleconferences for the Immediate office of the Secretary of State and principal staff while traveling abroad. Coordinate with different telecommunications service vendors to resolve problems.
- Expert decision-making skills: Made sound, well-informed, and objective decisions based on critical thinking principles and sound facts and data.
- TECHNICAL EXPERT AND ADVISOR: Direct and provide executive level support to the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of State; all Under Secretaries; and Assistant Secretaries of State. Ensures the Secretary has secure Secure Communications SharePoint site and service log. Advise internal staff on resource management policies and procedures. Make recommendations based on technical knowledge and understanding of government operations. Defend recommendations on controversial issues to management.
- DIAGNOSE, TROUBLESHOOT, AND REPAIR hardware and software application issues. Identify problems, determine accuracy and relevance of information. Detect if problems are caused by user error or hardware/software error. Use sound judgment to generate and evaluate alternatives and make recommendations. Proficient in identifying problems and recommending solutions. Evaluate alternatives and select reasonable and cost effective solutions. Provide advice, guidance, recommendations, and assistance to management and other technical specialists on critical network issues. Identify system security strengths and weaknesses and recommend and implement fixes.
- CUSTOMER SERVICE: Work with clients and customers to assess technology needs, provide technical information and assistance, resolve IT problems and satisfy expectations. Ensure quality customer service is provided to business owners with contract waiver coordination. Extensive knowledge about innovations in IT products and services and committed to providing quality products and services.
- ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS: Effectively express information to individuals or groups, taking into account the audience and nature of the information (for example, technical, sensitive, controversial). Communicate with vendors and apply suggestions provided by vendor technical support specialist. Prepare and present technical information, both orally and in writing, in a manner understood by the targeted audience. Utilize existing training material and other documentation to facilitate information sharing.
- BUILD AND MAINTAIN EFFECTIVE WORKING RELATIONSHIPS: Maintain liaison with staff and clients. Liaise with the White House Situation Room, Department of Defense, Defense Intelligence Agency, and National Security Agency operations centers in order to provide secure and non-secure communications support for the Secretary of State. Lead meetings and participate in cross-functional teams. Communicate effectively with team members and train others to accurately perform duties. Build credibility, establish rapport and maintain communication with stakeholders at multiple levels.
- Supervisor: Pat Ligon, (202)647-6635 or (202)647-1528 Okay to contact: Yes
OPERATIONS MANAGER
United States Army, Secretary of Defense Communications, Pentagon
08.2013 - 05.2015
- IT SYSTEMS, OPERATIONS AND NETWORKS EXPERT: Managed the installation, operation, and performance maintenance on videoconferencing equipment and systems for over 200 secure and non-secure teleconferences, providing the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary access to the POTUS, cabinet-level officials, senior DoD officials, and Minister of Defense counterparts in 22 countries. Developed and implemented operation center shift manning schedule for 24 hour operations. Provided various IT solutions and support for department and systems (customer and internal) to research, diagnose, analyze and resolve questions / issues concerning network and tools. Monitored various web-based network applications. Advised executive leadership and high-level officials.
- Managed, scheduled and maintained six executive VTC rooms utilizing the following systems: Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications VTC (JWICS), Crisis Management Systems (CMS), Defense Video Systems Global (DVSG) and DoD SIPRnet VTC executing 15 VTCs daily.
- INFORMATION SECURITY (INFOSEC): Supervised the monthly receipt and destruction of critical COMSEC material enabling secure communications with foreign dignitaries. Prepared and protected over 1700 security files, records and other information of national security significance. Maintained accountability of highly sensitive and classified material and associated equipment valued in excess of $3.5M. Ensured confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems, networks, and data through planning, analysis, development, implementation, maintenance, and enhancement of information systems security programs, policies, and procedures. Developed and practiced information security protocol required to protect systems. Performed entry, exit, visit processing, and escorting in a secure facility.
- DIRECT SUPERVISOR: Supervised the training, accountability, and welfare of 14 joint service personnel. Keen ability to coordinate complex tasks and teams, including partnerships with other entities. Oversaw performance management for each employee: development and evaluation of performance plans, mentoring and coaching for Individual Development Plans, and performance counseling and coaching. Took disciplinary action when necessary to ensure acceptable conduct and completion of operations according to established procedures. Superior ability to motivate personnel and enhance the overall efficiency, performance, and compliance with standard procedures and regulations.
- CONDUCTED EXTENSIVE RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS: Analyzed IT support policies and processes, identified gaps in process collections, developed new and improved processes, and developed systems and functional requirements specifications for IT processes. Developed and improved information technology solutions to meet organizational needs. Used technical expertise to identify serious technical problems and challenges and lead creation of innovative resolutions using technology-based solutions.
- LIAISED AND COMMUNICATED with high-level officials and departments in the intelligence community. Influenced others without jeopardizing working relationships. Communicated with internal and external stakeholders in routine situations and monitored, managed and evaluated critical processes. Applied vendor management skills to ensure timely project deliverables. Followed established talking points and other documents that governed external communications. In non-routine and unexpected situations, gathered information and escalated as appropriate, and provided timely and accurate feedback.
- Supervisor: Arne Shaw, (703)692-7000 Okay to contact: Yes
NETWORK OPERATIONS MANAGER
United States Army, 101ST Airborne Division
08.2007 - 07.2013
- Career Progression:
- 07/16/2011 - 07/10/2013, Network Operations Manager
- 05/01/2009 - 07/15/2011, Supervisor, IT Helpdesk/Call Center
- 08/06/2007 - 04/30/2009, Supervisor, Information Assurance Office
- IT SPECIALIST: Utilized technical expertise to anticipate, plan and coordinate various issues related to various telecommunications infrastructure, hardware, software and network systems. Installed software, hardware, and managed upgrades. Developed and recommended efficient processes and ensured effective network management. Assisted staff with various projects that required the removal, installation and identification of new and surplus IT equipment. Recommended changes to systems configurations to prevent reoccurrences of systematic problems. Extensive experience applying advanced IT principles, concepts, standards, technologies and problem management methods and practices.
- As Network Operations Manager, 07/2011 - 07/2013: Awarded the Regimental Signal Corps Bronze Order of Mercury for outstanding leadership, professional competence, and selfless service.
- NETWORK OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT: As IT Helpdesk and Call Center Supervisor, managed active directory, Adobe Connect, IP phones, and Cisco call manager services on secure and non- secure networks. Managed port security on NIPR, SIPR, and CENTRIXS-ISAF network switching devices. Diagnosed IT problems and implemented solutions within delegated authority. Installed and tested equipment and software for customers on videoconferencing. Answered help desk calls, and investigated and resolved unforeseen system issues. Designed and implemented new trouble ticketing system increasing efficiency by 20%.
- As Network Operations Manager, 07/2011 - 07/2013: Managed the establishment of secure and non-secure network environments providing network connectivity to five lower echelon organizations. Enforced network security policies, defined and monitored access to secure and non-secure networks.
- NETWORK SECURITY AND INFORMATION ASSURANCE: As Information Assurance Office Supervisor, oversaw Information Assurance vulnerability assessment compliance on secure and non-secure networks. Verified clearance eligibility determinations and access to classified information utilizing Joint Personnel Adjudication System (JPAS) for system access and authorization on DoD networks for over 7000 personnel. Planned, conducted, analyzed, evaluated, and reported security incidents. Investigated and remedied data spillages and over 900 network security incidents. Conducted weekly Retina, Symantec, and QTip scans of secure and non-secure networks. Developed security education bulletins, directives, security plans, security procedures and controls. Conducted end-of-day security checks and performed other security administrative functions.
- As Supervisor, 08/2007 - 05/2009: Revised the security incident tracking portal and associated processes resulting in a 15% decrease in processing time from start of incident to completion. Commended by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Information and Identity Assurance on enforcing Department of Defense Network security policies.
- As Supervisor, 08/2007 - 05/2009: Enforced Information Assurance policies and procedures for Joint area of operations infrastructure while coordinating with joint services and external agencies. Assisted in the preparation and execution of security directives and security guides
- DISASTER RECOVERY: Oversaw the implementation of the Basic Emergency Plan for the timely evacuation and secure storage of COMSEC material within the organization. Conducted risk assessment and risk management activities including disaster recovery and contingency planning. Directed development of business continuity plans, implementing disaster recovery procedures and systems. Conducted feasibility studies and analyzed costs for network connectivity to alternate recovery facility.
- IDENTIFIED, DEVELOPED AND IMPLEMENTED NEW INITIATIVES: Made recommendations and implemented initiatives to improve operational efficiency, accuracy of information, and level of technical advice and support for initiatives impacting proficiency of programs. Led change and established organizational vision; implemented it in a continuously changing environment. Identified opportunities to streamline, automate and improve efficiencies to reduce costs.
- As Network Operations Manager, 07/2011 - 07/2013: Introduced streamlined work processes and tracking mechanisms increasing efficiency by 30%.
- As Supervisor, 05/2009 - 07/2011: Oversaw the design and build of Windows Deployment server; reduced computer imaging time from two hours to ten minutes per system significantly reducing downtime for users.
- SENIOR COMMUNICATIONS ADVISOR for critical operational and administrative actions regarding communications equipment and manning for higher headquarters. Researched, and prepared presentations, and conducted operational briefs to senior leadership. Provided advice and recommendations to management on protections against threats to cyberspace and communications infrastructures based off of assessments and analysis.
- EQUIPMENT OVERSIGHT: Operated, monitored, troubleshot, tested, configured and repaired telecommunications equipment. Adhered to approved IT operating budgets that involved equipment purchases. Managed developed equipment and software contracts / agreements. Recommended equipment requirements and budgetary costs to administrative decision-makers.
- As Network Operations Manager, 07/2011 - 07/2013: Oversaw supply acquisition and accountability of network communications equipment valued in excess of $11M with zero loss.
- As Supervisor, 05/2009 - 07/2011: Planned and executed $2.7M lifecycle replacement plan for 2000+ computers and peripheral devices. Restructured procurement program for purchase of monthly automation support supplies utilized to sustain operation in a Joint Operations Center resulting in a 30% cost reduction.
- LEADER / TRAINER: Supervised the accountability, training, and welfare of 47 personnel and their families. Developed and executed professional development programs for subordinates. Identified and addressed training needs of subordinates; collaborated with internal and external agencies to provide baseline and supplemental training. Resolved complaints, coordinated with external agencies to addresses grievances as appropriate.
- MAINTAINED IT CONFIGURATION for extensive, complex, multiple-tasked systems. Oversaw installation and integration of advanced systems, fixes, updates and enhancements. Installed, configured, deployed, and supported computer equipment, network, software, and hardware on variety of platforms. Described the features and functions of networking components. Configured and troubleshot basic networking hardware, protocols, and services. Tested and optimized functionality of network systems, network, and data.
- PERFORMED REQUIREMENTS ANALYSIS: Identified and defined technical requirements applied to design and development of systems and networks. Led gathering, tracking and analyzing service requests, control requests and project requests affecting operations.
- As Supervisor, 05/2009 - 07/2011: Coordinated the technical networking and digital communications requirements for over 30 distinguished visitors in support of the Eastern region of Afghanistan
- ANALYZED INFORMATION AND DATA TO DETERMINE ROOT CAUSES OF PROBLEMS: Supervised troubleshooting network outages, planned and executed network upgrades. Conducted research and troubleshooting complex and advanced inquiries, resolving and identifying integration and impact points, system events and network interface application problems and opportunities for improvement. Applied new technology and innovative techniques to solve complex content, access and similar IT challenges.
- Keen attention to detail and awareness of duties involving job-related IT support and IT project planning. Knowledge of IT platforms, hardware, software and services sufficient in solving IT issues.
- DEVELOPED PROFESSIONAL AND STRATEGIC WORKING RELATIONSHIPS across multiple IT disciplines with counterparts throughout the organization to develop project plans and attain established objectives. Worked closely with technical staff and senior management to identify and mitigate risks to project timelines.
- ORAL, WRITTEN AND INTERPERSONAL SKILLS: Expressed technical information, taking into account audience and nature of information. Prepared status reports and kept supervisor apprised of progress. Established a professional rapport with customers. Communicated factual, technical and procedural information clearly and concisely on processes and results. Wrote reports for projects, including implementation, status and evaluation reports. Responded to issues and concerns formally and informally.
- Extensive experience working in a high-demand environment with shifting priorities using a high degree of judgment, diplomacy and political savvy.
- Supervisor: CSM Harold Reynolds (915)744-1031 Okay to contact: Yes
IT INSTRUCTOR / TRAINING DEVELOPER
United States Army, Cyber Center of Excellence
02.2002 - 08.2007
- PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING LEADERSHIP: Facilitated the training and certification of over 1200 US, Allied and Reserve personnel in automation hardware, software, and networking strategies for the Information Systems Specialist advanced skills course. Developed proponent training products for Information Systems Specialist advanced skills training. Developed and revised lesson plans, Programs of Instruction, training multimedia slides, student handouts, criterion examinations and associated training materials. Revised the Information Systems Specialist advanced skills training course from 15 week curriculum to a 19 week curriculum. Coordinated resource requirements to accomplish training objectives. Developed, prepared and implemented training policies, procedures, and standard operating procedures.
- ANALYZED AND EVALUATED OPERATIONS, PROCESSES AND PROCEDURES: Gathered information to identify and analyze issues and develop recommendations for training. Analyzed data, developed learning objectives, and designed interventions based on performance gaps. Researched operations, internal processes, customer satisfaction and planning procedures. Identified key measurements and associated targets and made changes to improve efficiency. Created performance analysis reports to identify deficiencies that needed to be corrected.
- MEASURED PERFORMANCE THROUGH VARIOUS EVALUATING METHODS, ensuring performance requirements, program policies, learning objectives and goals were accurately followed. Worked with staff to achieve high success rates. Created and maintained conducive learning environments, delivered effective teaching and coaching techniques.
- UTILIZED EFFECTIVE ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATION SKILLS: Initiated, facilitated and moderated classroom discussions. Communicated daily regarding curriculum, individual student and program challenges, and implementation of changes to increase program effectiveness. Communicated and collaborated in shared decision-making and community resources to enhance leadership skills.
- Supervisor: Donell Walker, (706)791-6972 Okay to contact: Yes
Education
Certification - Cisco Specialist, CompTIA Security+
Augusta Technical College
Augusta, GA01.2008
Skills
- Program / Management Analysis
- Strategic Planning and Operations
- Team and Project Oversight
- Oral and Written Communication
- Information Technology Management
- Network Operations
- Telecommunications
- Information Security / Cybersecurity
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint); Cisco Tandberg Management Suite: multi-level room CODEC; and expert ability to conduct credible, Internet-based research
Certification
Active TOP SECRET/SCI Clearance.
Timeline
TELECOMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST, GS-13
Secretary of Defense Communications, Department of Defense
04.2020 - Current
SECURE COMMUNICATIONS ENGINEER III
Information Resource Management-Secure Communications, Department of State
06.2015 - 04.2020
OPERATIONS MANAGER
United States Army, Secretary of Defense Communications, Pentagon
08.2013 - 05.2015
NETWORK OPERATIONS MANAGER
United States Army, 101ST Airborne Division
08.2007 - 07.2013
IT INSTRUCTOR / TRAINING DEVELOPER
United States Army, Cyber Center of Excellence
02.2002 - 08.2007
Certification - Cisco Specialist, CompTIA Security+
Augusta Technical College