Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Projects
Career Development - Certifications
Affiliations
Timeline
Generic

Richard Foster

Brentwood

Summary

Dynamic IT professional with extensive cloud computing experience, specializing in Azure solutions, and cybersecurity. Proven track record in optimizing cloud operations, achieving a 70% reduction in security threats. Skilled in PowerShell scripting and stakeholder collaboration, I thrive in fast-paced environments, delivering impactful results and enhancing organizational efficiency.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience

Work History

Cloud & Infrastructure Projects (Microsoft Azure)

IT Freelancer
Remote
03.2024 - Current
  • Deployed Azure-based solutions for small businesses, including virtual networks, resource groups, and Azure Active Directory integration.
  • Advised on security best practices using Azure Security Center, and configured role-based access control (RBAC).
  • Migrated legacy systems to Azure Virtual Machines, and optimized cost using reserved instances and storage tiering. (Reduced client infrastructure costs by 25% via Azure resource optimization.)
  • Provided on-demand Azure cloud support, including tenant configuration, RBAC, and VM deployment.
  • Configured and managed streamlined monitoring processes with Azure Monitor for effective system oversight.
    Conducted data analysis with Log Analytics to support decision-making.
    Enhanced application diagnostics using Application Insights to identify performance issues, to optimize performance and reliability.

Systems Admin

NYLB
New York
03.2023 - 02.2024
  • Implemented automated data lifecycle policies in Microsoft Purview for compliant management of Exchange Online emails.
  • Managed deployment of Microsoft Defender for Endpoint to enhance threat detection and automated response across devices.
  • Installed Azure compute instances using ARM templates and PowerShell for efficient deployment of scalable solutions.
  • Optimized cloud operations by integrating Azure Services, MS Defender for Cloud, and other tools.
  • Governed Azure subscriptions and resource groups, ensuring access control and reducing security threats by 70%.
  • Configured SolarWinds monitoring tools to identify performance bottlenecks and security threats, improving productivity by 60%.
  • Developed security baselines for Azure resources, aligning with best practices to strengthen cybersecurity defenses.
  • Integrated Azure Sentinel with security tools for comprehensive monitoring and improved incident response.

Sr. Systems Analyst

MTA
New York
06.2016 - 12.2022
  • Established auto-apply retention labels to classify and retain emails based on sensitive information types.
  • Configured disposition reviews for lawful deletion following retention periods.
  • Utilized records management to declare emails as records, preventing unauthorized alterations or deletions.
  • Integrated Defender for Office 365 to protect Exchange, SharePoint, and Teams from phishing and malware threats.
  • Implemented Azure Security Center for continuous monitoring of cloud resources, reducing incidents by 20%.
  • Executed Microsoft Intune for mobile device management across 500+ devices, ensuring secure corporate access.
  • Migrated on-premises infrastructure to Azure, optimizing cost savings by reclaiming dormant licenses worth $250,000 annually.
  • Spearheaded migration of legacy applications to Azure PaaS, enhancing scalability by 45%.
  • Developed custom scripts using languages such as Python or PowerShell to automate routine tasks.
  • Explored new technologies and tools for productivity, security and quality assurance purposes.
  • Collaborated with stakeholders to define requirements for new or modified systems.
  • Documented steps required for troubleshooting and compiled into reports.
  • Researched emerging technologies in order to determine their applicability within the organization's environment.
  • Developed and managed project plans while providing status updates to management.
  • Ensured compliance with applicable laws and regulations related to data privacy.
  • Worked with cross-functional teams to achieve goals.

Windows Engineer

Cobham
Plainview
06.2015 - 05.2016
  • Managed Active Directory domain services, including Group Policy Objects (GPO), user/group provisioning, OU structuring, and replication troubleshooting.
  • Installed, configured, and maintained Windows Server environments (2012, 2016, 2019), including roles like DNS, DHCP, File Services, and Active Directory.
  • Automated vulnerability scanning with Qualys Vulnerability Management, enhancing patching efficiency by 50%.
  • Minimized database slowdowns through strategic storage planning and transaction log management, improving user experience by 50%.
  • Optimized manpower allocation with tools to streamline project workflows, reducing overtime by 45%.
  • Monitored overall security posture of On-Prem resources using MS Defender.
  • Implemented best practices for storage planning and transaction log management, boosting data movement and scalability by 50%.
  • Focused server construction on robust environments, leveraging industry knowledge to enhance flexibility and reduce rework.
  • Researched feasibility, design or performance of components or systems.
  • Participated in team meetings to discuss project progress updates.
  • Developed and implemented engineering strategies to improve production efficiency.
  • Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.

Education

Digital Computer Technology Diploma - Computer And Information Systems Security

Suburban Technical School
East Islip, NY
08.1991

Skills

  • MS Azure
  • IAM's
  • Azure Migrate
  • MS 365 Admin Center
  • Cybersecurity and compliance
  • PowerShell scripting
  • Descriptive deployments
  • Zero trust security model
  • Microsoft Entra and Intune
  • Microsoft Defender
  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
  • Project management
  • CyberArk administration
  • Kubernetes orchestration
  • Terraform infrastructure as code
  • Ansible automation
  • YAML configuration
  • SCIM integration
  • Data analysis techniques
  • Stakeholder collaboration strategies
  • Social perceptiveness skills
  • Calmness under pressure
  • Customer service excellence

Projects

Conditional Access - Implemented a well-structured conditional access solution, utilized 16 Conditional Access Policy Templates, and configured 450 users and devices with these templates.

Career Development - Certifications

CISSP Certification, In Progress

Affiliations

  • Golfing
  • Reading
  • The Outdoors

Timeline

Cloud & Infrastructure Projects (Microsoft Azure)

IT Freelancer
03.2024 - Current

Systems Admin

NYLB
03.2023 - 02.2024

Sr. Systems Analyst

MTA
06.2016 - 12.2022

Windows Engineer

Cobham
06.2015 - 05.2016

Digital Computer Technology Diploma - Computer And Information Systems Security

Suburban Technical School

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Richard Foster