Ricardo J. Suarez
Miami
Summary
Knowledgeable IT Manager oversees technology deployment and maintenance. Instructs and leads IT staff members in support of hardware, software and networking infrastructure. Actively works with executives to determine and implement technology needs. Manages technology strategy, training and documentation.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Chief Information Officer
City of Hialeah
09.2011 - Current
- Responsible for evaluating, implementing, and maintaining any and all technology integrated systems citywide, as well as making sure they will interface with current systems and allow for future growth and development. Provide guidance and assist departments with the planning of respective technological needs.
- Design a technology plan that will allow for the City of Hialeah’s employees, elected officials, and residents the ability to communicate in an efficient and effective manner.
- Effectively manage the different sections of the Information Technology Department, taking into account each employees’ abilities and strengths and use them to best suit the needs of the city and its citizens.
- Responsible for preparing and managing the budget for the Information Technology Department and assuring that the department stays within budget.
- Directed IT strategy aligning with city objectives and enhancing operational efficiency.
- Led implementation of advanced cybersecurity measures to protect City data assets.
- Oversaw integration of cloud-based solutions improving service delivery and cost management.
- Facilitated cross-departmental collaboration on technology projects enhancing interdepartmental communication.
- Managed vendor relationships optimizing procurement processes for IT services and products.
- Ensured regulatory compliance by staying current on industry standards and implementing necessary controls within IT infrastructure.
- Reduced downtime with proactive monitoring, maintenance, and troubleshooting of IT systems.
- Enhanced cybersecurity measures by conducting risk assessments and implementing security protocols.
- Developed and implemented measures and procedures to protect IT systems from cyber threats and data breaches.
Systems Administrator
City of Hialeah
07.2006 - 08.2011
- Primary support for the 911 Center, which includes but is not limited to the configuration and maintenance of CAD, ProQA, and the REVERSE 911 System. Primary support for the Fire Department, where the most recent task was the configuration and deployment of Mobile Data Terminals for all fire trucks.
- Responsible for the supervision, management, and maintenance of Citywide network infrastructure (all switching and routing) and network security (all firewalls). Telephone System Administrator for City Hall, the Fire Administration building and the Police Department. Assisted in the implementation of tighter security for the Police Mobile Data Terminal, and with any IT related city project.
Systems Engineer
City of Hialeah
06.2003 - 07.2006
- Primary responsibilities included but were not limited to daily tech support for the Police Department and North Compound. This included the deployment of replacement computers, and taking over the Keri Keycard System. Provided assistance in the setup of a Windows 2000 test domain where a Remote Installation Services Server was implemented to help expedite the setup and deployment of new computers at the Water & Sewer Department.
Director of Technology/Network Administrator
Msgr. Edward Pace High School
01.2000 - 01.2003
- Responsible for all computer and software systems required for both study and administrative functions. Created network based accountability structure for administrative staff that showed where and when tasks were done and at what frequency. Created a network security protocol, as well as, a campus monitoring protocol to insure that both property and personnel were safe from theft and injury. Instructed administrative staff and trusted student body in software necessary for the everyday operation of Msgr. Edward Pace High School. Dealt with vendors and consultants when necessary to promote new projects that were asked of the IS department to further scholastic agendas. Supervised students assigned to work as technicians to get hands-on training.
Education
Masters of Science - Cybersecurity
Florida International University
Miami, FL01-2028
CIO Certificate Program - undefined
Carnegie Mellon University Heinz College
09.2021
Bachelors - Information Technology
American InterContinental University
Fort Lauderdale, FL03.2003
Skills
- IT compliance
- IT governance
- Professionalism
- Analytical thinking
- Cybersecurity management
- Infrastructure planning
- Network administration
- Teamwork and collaboration
Certification
FDLE CJIS Certified LASO
Languages
English
Spanish
Timeline
Chief Information Officer
City of Hialeah
09.2011 - Current
Systems Administrator
City of Hialeah
07.2006 - 08.2011
Systems Engineer
City of Hialeah
06.2003 - 07.2006
Director of Technology/Network Administrator
Msgr. Edward Pace High School
01.2000 - 01.2003
CIO Certificate Program - undefined
Carnegie Mellon University Heinz College
Masters of Science - Cybersecurity
Florida International University
Bachelors - Information Technology
American InterContinental University