It Systems Security Analyst

STEPHEN KWABENA DARKO

*******@*********.*** 609-***-**** New Jersey -

SUMMARY

Experienced Cybersecurity Compliance Analyst with a solid background in computer networking, ethical hacking, and IT systems administration. Proven expertise in threat detection, security protocol implemen- tation, and holistic IT infrastructure management. Skilled in conducting vulnerability assessments, gap analyses, and orchestrating incident response efforts to mitigate risk. Adept at using advanced tools such as Wireshark, Metasploit, and SIEM platforms to monitor and secure network environments. Demonstrated ability to ensure alignment with major cybersecurity and regulatory frameworks including ISO 27001, NIST 800-53, NIST CSF, PCI DSS, NYDFS, and NIS2. A proactive leader in driving security initiatives that strengthen system integrity, protect digital assets, and maintain full compliance posture across dynamic operational environments.

EXPERIENCE

Local Government Service May 2023 - August 2024

Management Information Systems Unit Head

• Developed and executed a strategic technology roadmap aligned with organizational objectives and relevant compliance frameworks (e.g., ISO 27001, NIST CSF), leading to a 15% increase in efficiency and productivity across operations.

• Oversaw the management and maintenance of IT systems ensuring optimal performance and high availability, leading to a 20% reduction in downtime equating to 2 hours per week.

• Successfully led IT projects within budget and timelines, resulting in a cost savings of $50,000 and on-time project delivery.

• Delivered comprehensive staff training on Microsoft Office Suite and security-aware software usage, enhancing team proficiency, compliance awareness, and productivity by 25%, while reinforcing organi- zational adherence to data handling best practices. Local Government Service, Ghana June 2018 - April 2023 MIS Unit Assistant Head

• Achieved a 20% reduction in system downtime by proactively identifying and resolving technical issues, applying root cause analysis, and ensuring ongoing system availability and performance optimization.

• Managed the installation, configuration, and maintenance of CCTV systems as part of the organization’s physical security controls, contributing to a 30% decrease in security incidents and enhanced compliance with ISO 27001 physical asset protection standards.

• Executed prompt hardware troubleshooting and incident resolution, minimizing service disruptions and supporting broader risk mitigation efforts to maintain operational continuity. EDUCATION

Montclair State University - May 2026

MS, Cybersecurity

University for Development Studies, Ghana - July 2014 BSc, Computer Science

CERTIFICATIONS

Certified Ethical Hacker May 2025

Certificate in Cybersecurity May 2024

Quantum Computing & Information Science September 2023 TOP SKILLS

Python, MySQL Expert in DNS, Ethernet Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook Network Security Security Awareness Training Data Protection & Access Controls System Hardening Ethical Hacking Cyber Risk Analysis Security Policy Implementation Threat Detection & Response Penetration Testing Vulnerability Assessment Gap Assessment Data Analysis Program Management Compliance Automation Tools ISO27001 NIST CSF NIST 800-53 PCI DSS NIS2 Security architecture support Compliance services Cybersecurity regulatory advisory

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