John McDowell

Business Operations Leader with *6 Years of Experience in Crafting

And Implementing Highly Effective IT Strategies to Propel Business Outcomes Forward

As an esteemed leader in developing and implementing Holistic IT Business Strategies, I have a proven track record of successfully constructing IT functions, systems, and distributed operational teams from the ground up, all within tight budgetary constraints and ambitious timelines.

My technical expertise is well-rounded, having spearheaded infrastructure improvements during a comprehensive network buildout across thirty-eight offices, resulting in enhanced operations for a workforce of 1,600 employees. I drove cost reductions by implementing a deployed multi-point server, formulated policies that optimized remote network operations, and established a highly efficient technical services delivery model that minimized staff downtime and maximized operational efficiencies.

My dedication to excellence is further evident through attaining some of the most rigorous and demanding operational certifications, including PMP and CSM. I consistently maintain a strategic focus, demonstrated by my creation of robust disaster recovery policies, comprehensive business continuity plans, and meticulous data retention procedures. Moreover, my adeptness in assembling technology business teams has consistently yielded the highest ROI on my company's technology investments.

As a seasoned Team Builder, I emphasize acquiring and nurturing high-performing leaders while fostering a culture of service and operational excellence that pervades throughout the organization.

Areas of M

Strategic Organizational Leader

IT Infrastructure Developer

Project Management

Vendor Management

Enterprise Resource Planning

IT Infrastructure Management

Teaching/Leadership

Team Building

Performance Improvements

Data Governance

Disaster Recovery

Executive Management

Financial Acumen, Budgeting

IT Strategy

y Leadership Expertise

Budget Responsibility & Expense Reduction

Leadership Development

Business Process Improvement

Telecommute/Remote End User Support

Optimizing Data Analytics

Agile, Lean, and Waterfall Methodologies

Risk Analysis & Mitigation

Business Strategy

Change Management

Forecasting

IT Recruitment and Resource Management

Integration

IT Service Management

Executive Leadership Experience

Saint Francis Ministries, Salina, KS

Overseeing a substantial budget of $4.7 million, I successfully achieved cost savings and avoidance of $1.5 million across various facets of the organization. Particularly impressive were the savings of $1.3 million for the FY21-23 IT budget alone. A significant highlight of my accomplishments was constructing a brand-new IT department from the ground up, requiring meticulous planning, resourcefulness, and expert execution.

Chief Information Officer (July 1, 2022, to Present)

Dynamic IT Leader with a proven track record of optimizing business operations by strategically utilizing modern IT software and technologies. Collaborative and results-oriented, adept at working closely with executives to align technology with organizational objectives, fostering growth and enhancing profitability. Recognized for spearheading digital transformation initiatives and orchestrating organizational change. Proficient in managing budgets, talent, and strategic planning across geographically diverse IT teams. Known for designing customized systems and ensuring seamless implementation across departments.

Key Achievements:

• Successfully facilitated the transition and support for over 500 staff to operate in a remote/hybrid-based workforce environment.

• Led the migration to cloud architecture and facilitated the launch of new offices across multiple states.

• Directed budgeting, procurement, talent management, and strategic planning with IT teams in two countries.

• Developed, monitored, and controlled the IT budget to maximize efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

• Strategically planned, deployed, and maintained IT systems and operations for the organization, ensuring optimal performance.

• Formulated comprehensive IT policies, procedures, and best practices to promote streamlined operations and security.

• Ensured IT strategies and processes aligned with company-wide goals and objectives.

• Implemented and enforced IT best practices across the organization to enhance productivity and data integrity.

• Effectively communicated the benefits and risks of new IT-related project initiatives to other executives, fostering informed decision-making.

• Pioneered creating and implementing a PMO (Project Management Office) from inception, streamlining project management.

• Conducted IT departmental training to foster cross-functional team collaboration and optimize workflow efficiency.

With a robust background in IT leadership and a dedication to driving positive organizational change, I am committed to leveraging my expertise to contribute to the continued success of forward-thinking enterprises.

Vice President of Information Systems (December 1, 2019, to June 30, 2022)

Results-driven IT leader who strongly focuses on developing and implementing organization-wide technology solutions. Adept at providing strategic vision and leadership to ensure seamless IT operations for on-site and remote staff. Collaborative and influential, liaising between team, leadership, and third-party resources. Skilled in customizing IT project management portfolios to align with business objectives and regulatory compliance. Exceptional track record of successful implementations and cost-effective solutions.

Key Accomplishments:

• Led the organization's technology vision, strategy, and implementation efforts across all departments.

• Collaborated as an active executive leadership team member, aligning resources to support the organization's overall strategic direction.

• Acted as the Vice President of Technology Services, establishing effective communication between staff, leadership, and third-party vendors.

• Implemented a comprehensive plan enabling staff to access network resources and VPN during the COVID-19 pandemic, saving the organization $25k through resource reallocation.

• Coordinated with business partners to successfully deploy various IT solutions, ensuring effective implementation.

• Designed and executed business plans and policies optimizing human resources utilization.

• Spearheaded the planning, scheduling, and implementation of a centrally managed documentation solution, enhancing collaboration among 40 Technical staff across 7 States and 2 countries.

• Successfully implemented asset management software for thousands of devices across the organization, improving asset tracking and management.

• Planned, scheduled, and implemented a Help Desk support system serving the organization across multiple states and countries.

• Demonstrated proficiency in resolving complex issues, both logical and interpersonal, driving effective problem-solving.

• Led and managed multiple IT Technical Teams across different states, fostering collaboration between US and India-based teams.

• Proven experience in planning, organizing, and prioritizing large system projects to achieve successful outcomes.

• Expertise in budget preparation, monitoring, and cost-effective redesign/implementation of technological advancements in business operations.

• Accomplished project manager, ensuring on-time and within-budget delivery of various projects.

• Developed comprehensive project plans for deploying 900 laptops/desktops and 900 cell phones across the organization within a 12-month timeline.

• Demonstrated leadership in hiring and managing cross-functional IT teams, both on-site and remote.

With a keen eye for innovative solutions and a history of driving successful IT initiatives, I am committed to contributing my expertise to advancing and growing forward-thinking organizations.

Reach Solutions, McPherson KS

As an accomplished professional, I collaborate closely with clients' IT departments, offering expert guidance and serving as their trusted CIO equivalent. My role entails developing comprehensive technology roadmaps and providing unparalleled IT expertise and leadership to drive organizational success.

vCIO (June 1, 2019, to Nov 30, 2019)

Accomplished IT Professional with a strong focus on strategic planning, budget formulation, and business process optimization. Known for facilitating technology changes that enhance operational efficiency and align with clients' long-term goals. A forward-thinking and customer-centric approach ensures the provision of cutting-edge services while maintaining IT infrastructure. Skilled in hiring, managing, and training IT staff to deliver exceptional results. Adept at formulating, planning, and executing diverse projects to achieve organizational objectives.

Key Achievements:

• Defined the useful life of existing IT infrastructure, enabling informed decision-making and efficient resource allocation.

• Ensured operational efficiencies by identifying and implementing process improvements that drove productivity gains.

• Spearheaded efforts to align client business with rapid technological changes, fostering organizational adaptability and innovation.

• Successfully implemented an in-house asset management system, streamlining asset tracking and resource utilization.

• Led and managed various project deployments, ensuring on-time delivery and adherence to project goals.

• Created a comprehensive roadmap outlining yearly responsibilities for IT personnel, licensing renewals, project timelines, and software/hardware implementations.

• Provided expert advice to clients on IT best practices, enabling them to make informed and strategic technology-related decisions.

• Effectively managed vendor relationships, ensuring seamless collaboration and obtaining favorable terms.

• Acted as a trusted advisor to organizations, recommending adopting new technologies to drive growth and efficiency.

With a proven track record of delivering tangible results and a commitment to excellence, I am poised to contribute my expertise in IT strategy, project management, and business-technology alignment to drive success for forward-looking clients.

St John’s Military School, Salina KS

Accomplished IT Leader with a strong track record of providing strategic leadership during software package replacement initiatives and ensuring adherence to IT budgets. Recognized for directing security analysis and implementation measures for educational institutions, ensuring the protection of sensitive data and systems.

IT Director/Chief Information Officer (2012 to 2019)

Results-driven IT Leader with a strong focus on guiding strategic initiatives to enhance efficiency and collaboration through technology. Adept at managing budgets and exploring cost-effective equipment purchase options. Known for spearheading root cause analysis, department budget presentations, and effective cross-departmental networking to ensure the timely progression of strategic projects.

Key Achievements:

• Supervised a transformative project that replaced 16 software packages with a consolidated system, resulting in enhanced operations, increased collaboration opportunities, and estimated savings of $25K.

• Developed a compelling funding plan and successfully presented it to investors, securing dedicated laptops in classrooms for improved learning experiences.

• Led a highly successful project to replace independent multiple cameras with an integrated security system, elevating the organization's overall security.

• Established and built a high-functioning IT Department, recruiting, managing, and guiding IT staff to achieve successful and timely project completions.

• Implemented a robust Help Desk application to track tickets, resulting in quicker response times, improved user request interpretation, and increased accuracy.

• Led network infrastructure revisions, optimizing bandwidth, speed, and reliability, saving the organization $150K over four years and expediting work functions.

• Installed multipoint systems, eliminating approximately $10K in additional PC costs by running multiple PCs virtually through one computer using Multipoint Server.

• Opted for a $36K system to replace a non-functioning network with annual support costs of $25K, resulting in a total savings of over $150K in four years.

• Established standard operating procedures for business security networks and a secondary educational network with student tracking, enhancing organizational security.

• Developed security metrics to reduce system vulnerabilities and monitored the organization's networks for security breaches, conducting thorough investigations.

With a solid commitment to delivering exceptional results and driving technological advancements, I am dedicated to optimizing IT operations and securing the success of strategic projects for the organization.

Central Kansas Foundation, Salina, KS

Proficient Network Specialist with a keen eye for designing, configuring, and implementing cutting-edge network solutions and security measures while ensuring equipment functionality and maintaining data integrity standards.

Network Administrator (2009 to 2012)

Accomplished IT Professional adept at designing, configuring, and installing LAN hardware, software, and telecommunication services. Highly skilled in setting up network users, establishing secure user environments, directories, and robust security measures. Committed to creating and implementing standards for operational activities to ensure network, personal computer, and cybersecurity compliance.

Key Achievements:

• Devised and presented a comprehensive plan to replace outdated and slow workstations, resulting in a significantly more productive work environment. The organization became proactive in providing high-performing workstations, contributing to improved efficiency.

• Implemented a cost-effective strategy by replacing Cisco routers with Sonicwall routers at headquarters and outlying offices. This switch resulted in substantial cost savings of up to $20K while maintaining optimal networking capabilities.

• Demonstrated expertise in identifying and quarantining security issues, effectively safeguarding the organization against potential threats.

• Standardized all operating systems and security patches, promoting consistency and enhancing overall network security.

• Evaluated and developed robust security controls for IT solutions of various types, including mobile, web, and client-server systems, ensuring strong cybersecurity measures.

With a strong focus on network optimization and cybersecurity, I am dedicated to leveraging my skills to foster a secure and efficient IT environment, aligning with the organization's strategic goals and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Big Meaning Inc., Salina, KS

Engage closely with clients to strategize and execute upgrades, implement effective data recovery processes, and proactively reduce data redundancy. By fostering strong partnerships, I ensure streamlined operations, enhanced data management, and optimal utilization of resources for our valued clients.

IT CONSULTANT (2007 to 2009)

Orchestrate seamless upgrades for workstations and servers while implementing robust data recovery solutions for clients through Backup Exec software, tape drives, offsite, onsite, and NAS-based backups. Spearheaded developing and deploying tailored technology solutions for new clients while nurturing strong relationships with existing clients through onsite visits, email, and phone follow-ups.

Key Achievements:

• Successfully executed workstation and server upgrades, optimizing performance and enhancing client productivity.

• Implemented data recovery options, ensuring critical data protection and business continuity for clients.

• Demonstrated expertise in Backup Exec software and various backup methods, resulting in reliable and comprehensive data backups for clients.

• Developed and deployed effective technology solutions, meeting the unique needs of new clients and contributing to business growth.

• Fostered lasting relationships with existing clients, maintaining proactive communication and exceptional customer support.

Education

Northcentral University, Scottsdale, Arizona – Currently enrolled, GPA: 3.76

Doctor of Business Administration – Information Technology

Emporia State University, Emporia, Kansas – May 2022, GPA: 3.78

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WITH INFORMATION SYSTEMS CONCENTRATION

Rasmussen College, Topeka, Kansas - Graduation: September 13th, 2019, GPA: 3.88

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND MANAGEMENT

Madison University, Gulfport, MS – Graduation: August 2004

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PSYCHOLOGY, SUMMA CUM LAUDE

Credentials

Generative Artificial Intelligence: Introduction and Application #5PAXM665VBVE – 04/03/2024

Google Project Management – 03/06/2024

Certified in Cybersecurity #983739 – 12/01/2023

Leadership and Management Excellence Certified (LeadEx) #MCD121822 – 12/18/2022

Certified Corporate Ethics Manager #148195675 – 12/18/2022

Project Management Qualified #148195676 – 12/14/2022

Diversity Management Certified #148195674 – 12/14/2022

ISC2 Certificate of Completion CBK Training Seminar for the CISSP – 09/19/2022

ISC2 Certificate of Completion Entry-Level Cybersecurity Certification - 05/24/2022

Master Certificate in Business Management Certificate #MC9352 – 05/20/2022

PM Training (Quality Management Course) Certificate #3962VWKWH5 – 4/7/2022

PM Training (PM Foundation Course) Certificate #39624KT8JU – 4/8/2022

PM Training (SCRUM Immersion Course) Certificate #3962CWBFZT – 4/8/2022

PM Training (PMO Basics Course) Certificate #3962WL6ALA – 4/8/2022

ITIL Foundation Certification #GR671297375JM – 08/05/2021

SOLC (Strategic Organizational Leadership) Certification #77639919 – 05/10/2021

TBC (Team Building Certified) Certification #75420918 – 04/06/2021

PMP (Project Management Professional) Certification #2854251 – 11/4/ 2020

CSM (Certified Scrum Master) Certification #001148523 – 12/22/2020

Alison Diploma Project Management #AC-126*-********– Revised 2017

CompTIA A+ Certification – Certification #COMP001005987268 - 2007

Technical Proficiencies:

Operating Systems: Windows, MAC OS, Chrome OS

Server Management: Microsoft Exchange Server, Windows Server 2003, 2008, 2012

Networking: Citrix, D-Link, Enterasys, Sonicwall, Cisco, Barracuda

ERP: Financial Edge, Quickbooks

Management Software: Blackbaud K-12, GoEdustar

Support Systems & Software: Avaya Phone Systems, Blackbaud Accounting System

Backup / Recovery: Symantec Backup Exec, NAS, Tape Drives

Security: SonicWall Internet Security Appliances and Solutions, GoGuardian, Barracuda, KnowBe4

Help Desk and IT Documentation: Spiceworks Help Desk, IT Asset Tracking, ConnectWise, IT Glue

Remote Support: Teamviewer, LogMeIn, GoToMyPc, and Splashtop

MDM: Jamf, Mobile Iron, Meraki

Project Management: Project Manager, Scheduling, Strategic Planning and Analysis, Project +, FreedCamp, SCRUM, Agile, Waterfall, Lean, Kanban

Service:

Mentored both Kansas Wesleyan and Kansas State University interns who were in pursuit of an Information Systems degree.

Own and operate WaveMan Jiu Jitsu Academy. I teach Brazilian Jiu Jitsu self-defense classes to various people in the following fields: law enforcement, nursing, fire department, etc.

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