Stephen Filomena
Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
416-***-**** *******.********@*****.***
Professional Summary
Dedicated Senior System Administrator with over 10 years of experience maintaining IT infrastructure, implementing robust security solutions, and ensuring optimal system performance. Proficient in managing Microsoft 365 environments, Azure Active Directory, and endpoint security solutions to support enterprise objectives. Skilled in PowerShell scripting for automation and process improvement. Experienced in SQL and AutoCAD with exposure to database management and design tools. Strong expertise in Veeam Backup & Replication, VPN setup, and network security. Known for delivering exceptional customer service, effective communication, and a proactive approach to system maintenance, compliance, and security. Adept at managing complex IT projects from planning to execution, ensuring seamless integration and minimal disruption. Throughout my career, I have successfully delivered IT solutions for organizations across financial, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors, and I look forward to discussing these experiences in detail during an interview.
Professional Experience
IT Specialist – Contract Roles Freelance and Contract Work 2021 – Present
Provided IT consulting services to clients across financial, healthcare, and retail industries, addressing diverse infrastructure and support needs.
Managed and configured Microsoft 365 services, including SharePoint, Exchange Online, Intune, Active Directory, Azure, and Entra, ensuring seamless user identity and access management.
Migrated organizations to Microsoft 365, improving collaboration and mobility.
Created and managed Azure servers for backups and file sharing, enhancing data availability and collaboration.
Supported enterprise tools such as Exchange, SharePoint, Teams, and Azure Active Directory.
Developed and implemented IT processes, including access systems and acceptable use policies.
Supported PCI DSS compliance initiatives by implementing secure payment systems and ensuring data protection for retail clients.
Managed endpoint security solutions, including migrations from Norton to Sentinel One, enhancing security posture.
Implemented and managed Veeam Backup & Replication to ensure disaster recovery and business continuity.
Configured and maintained VPN solutions, including setup and creation of configuration files for VPN clients.
Configured and supported VoIP phone systems to enhance communication efficiency.
Administered Zoom environments, ensuring reliable video conferencing and troubleshooting user issues.
Worked with Polycom AV setups, handling installation, configuration, and maintenance.
Utilized Jira to streamline ticket management and asset tracking, enabling improved resolution times and detailed reporting.
Assisted in SQL database management tasks.
Professional Development 2019 – 2021
Focused on professional development during a challenging period in the job market due to COVID-19.
Achieved the following certifications to enhance IT security and analytics expertise:
oCompTIA Security+
oCompTIA CYSA+
oCompTIA Security Analytics Professional
oCyberArk Certified Trustee
oSplunk 7 Fundamentals
Conducted lab work with peers in my professional network to stay current with emerging technologies and refine technical skills.
IT Systems Administrator My Blue Umbrella 2013 – 2019
Spearheaded a company-wide migration from Windows 7 to Windows 10, ensuring compatibility and minimal user disruption.
Administered Microsoft Server environments (2008/2012/2016) and Active Directory, managing user accounts, permissions, and group policies for secure access control.
Configured and supported enterprise network infrastructure, including switches, routers, and firewalls (TCP/IP networking).
Deployed and managed Microsoft Intune for mobile device management and endpoint security.
Installed and configured DUO for Multi-Factor Authentication to enhance system security.
Created and managed Azure servers for backups and file sharing, improving system reliability and scalability.
Supported PCI DSS compliance by implementing secure access controls and data encryption measures.
Troubleshot Microsoft 365 issues, including integration with other systems, SSO capabilities, and user connectivity and mobility.
Managed Veeam Backup & Replication for data protection and recovery.
Configured and maintained VPNs, including setup and deployment of secure connections.
Configured and supported Microsoft Exchange environments.
Updated servers and firewalls, ensuring secure and reliable operations.
Maintained inventory of systems and assets for internal and client environments.
Provided technical support for end-users, resolving service tickets related to OS, network connectivity, and application issues.
Supported IP phone systems, ensuring smooth VoIP functionality.
Managed VMware ESXi virtualization infrastructure for improved system efficiency.
Performed regular maintenance, including software patching, system upgrades, and backup strategies, ensuring data integrity and performance.
Leveraged Jira for helpdesk operations and asset management, ensuring efficient tracking and resolution of IT tickets.
Technical Skills
IT Infrastructure Management: Expertise in administering Microsoft Server environments, Active Directory, and Microsoft 365.
Cloud Services: Skilled in managing Azure services, including Virtual Machines, backups, and file sharing.
Endpoint Security: Experienced with Sentinel One, CrowdStrike, and Microsoft Endpoint Protection.
Networking: Proficient in configuring and troubleshooting network protocols, including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, switches, and routers.
Scripting & Automation: Advanced proficiency in PowerShell scripting for automation and system optimization.
Helpdesk and Asset Management Software: Experienced with Jira for ticket tracking and asset management.
Backup & Recovery: Proficient in Veeam Backup & Replication for disaster recovery.
AV & Video Conferencing: Hands-on experience with Polycom setups and managing Zoom environments.
VoIP Systems: Skilled in setting up and managing IP phone systems.
Project Management: Adept at planning and executing IT projects, ensuring on-time delivery and seamless integration.
SQL Exposure: Some experience working with SQL databases for data retrieval and management.
AutoCAD Exposure: Familiarity with AutoCAD software and its application in IT infrastructure.
Virtualization: Strong experience with VMware ESXi for deploying and managing virtual environments.
VPN Solutions: Configured and deployed VPN client configurations for secure remote access.
Education & Certifications
CompTIA CySA+
CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Security Analytics Professional
CyberArk Certified Trustee
Splunk 7 Fundamentals
Additional Qualifications
Proven ability to work on customer projects, including planning, deployment, and support.
Knowledge of security principles governing technical environments and compliance requirements.
Experience in scale-up environments with a focus on customer success and collaboration.
Strong aptitude for solving complex problems and innovating key processes.
Skilled in streamlining workflows and leveraging technology for process improvement.