Hello, I'm
Anand Raj Panangat
A strategic Technology Leader bringing 29 years of IT industry experience (20 in the Dubai/Abu Dhabi, 9 in India) with a strong focus on modern infrastructure and security. Proven ability in the complete project lifecycle – encompassing Planning & Design, Implementation & Management – of sophisticated Cloud environments (Azure, AWS, Google Cloud), advanced VMware Cloud & Virtualization computing, and resilient physical LAN and WAN technology solutions. Key strengths include integrating comprehensive cybersecurity measures and performing rigorous Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) to safeguard critical IT assets.
My Work Experience
29 years of hands‐on experience with IT industries in the Middle East and India, having a considerable breadth and depth of practical experience in Planning & Design, Implementation & Managing of Cloud, Virtual & Physical LAN and WAN Technology solutions with Azure, AWS, Google, VMware Cloud & Virtualization computing
Head of IT | Apr 2024 - Feb 2025
SINNONTEQ, Kerala, India
- Led
the IT Cybersecurity and VAPT (Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration
Testing) departments at Sinnonteq, ensuring robust security measures and
IT infrastructure.
- Developed
and implemented comprehensive cybersecurity strategies, significantly
reducing security breaches and vulnerabilities.
- Managed
a team of IT professionals, fostering a collaborative environment and
enhancing team productivity.
- Spearheaded
the integration of advanced security technologies, improving the overall
security posture of the organization.
- Conducted
regular vulnerability assessments and penetration tests, identifying and
mitigating potential risks.
- Led
VAPT efforts for a Qatar-based healthcare group, Naseem Healthcare,
ensuring the identification and resolution of vulnerabilities to protect
critical healthcare data and infrastructure.
- Collaborated
with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment of IT and cybersecurity
initiatives with business objectives.
- Provided
expert guidance and training to staff on cybersecurity best practices,
enhancing organizational awareness and resilience.
- Ensured
compliance with industry standards and regulations, maintaining a high
level of data protection and privacy.
Consultant - System Integration & DLP | Aug 2022 - Mar 2024
CONFIDENTIAL, (Remote) Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Led the integration of Microsoft Azure services, including Entra ID, Intune, and Exchange Online, enhancing organizational security.
- Implemented Kubernetes clusters within Docker containers, improving application deployment efficiency by 30%.
- Conducted vulnerability scanning and penetration testing, identifying critical security gaps and reducing potential risks by 25%.
- Project 1:
Microsoft Azure - Microsoft Entra ID, Microsoft Intune, Exchange Online, SharePoint, OneDrive, Application Deployment
- Project 2 :
Kubernetes Cluster within docker container & Vulnerability scanning & Pentesting
AGM – IT & Chief Information Officer May 2020 - July 2022
DREAMSOUQ, Kozhikode, India
- Provided visionary leadership in the development and
integration of information systems and technology solutions, aligning them
with business objectives and driving digital transformation.
- Managed a team of IT professionals, ensuring timely
completion of projects within budgetary constraints while fostering a
collaborative and high-performing work environment.
- Created and implemented comprehensive policies and
procedures for the organization's use of information technology, ensuring
compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
- Successfully negotiated contracts with vendors,
securing competitive pricing on hardware and software purchases while
ensuring adherence to service level agreements.
- Established an enterprise-wide disaster recovery
plan, including robust backup processes, system redundancy plans, and
protocols for restoring services after outages.
- Maintained a proactive approach to cybersecurity,
staying updated on emerging threats and implementing appropriate measures
to protect organizational assets and data.
- Streamlined mobile and cloud-based computing,
leveraging efficient and reliable applications and conducting ongoing
reliability testing.
- Fostered strategic alliances and partnerships with IT
leaders at allied organizations, creating opportunities for joint ventures
and collaborative products.
Senior IT Manager & CIO | Nov 2019 - May 2020
DREAMSOUQ, Kerala, India
- Managed the end-of-life replacement of equipment and software, ensuring conformance to technical standards and supporting the organization's technology initiatives.
- Implemented and managed system and network security measures, reviewing violations of IT security procedures and taking corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
- Led the project management and delivery of healthcare data security projects, from planning to execution, monitoring, and successful completion.
- Developed and implemented IT policies and procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards, enhancing the organization's security and operational efficiency.
- Managed the installation, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of network systems, ensuring seamless connectivity and minimizing downtime.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop innovative solutions for complex problems, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
- Monitored system performance and identified are as for improvement, proactively implementing measures to optimize performance and enhance user experience.
- Oversaw day-to-day IT operations, including end-user support, WAN, LAN, and VPN connectivity, IP telephone systems, backup and recovery, enterprise threat management, and DR operations.
- Planned, developed, and implemented the IT budget, obtaining competitive prices from suppliers to ensure cost-effectiveness and maintaining strong vendor relationships.
Senior IT Manager & CISO | Feb 2017 - Jul 2018
UNIVERSAL HOSPITAL Group, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Developed and implemented comprehensive IT policies and
procedures, ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulatory
requirements
- Monitored system performance and conducted regular assessments to
identify areas for improvement, resulting in enhanced efficiency and
productivity.
- Implemented and managed robust system and network security
measures, effectively safeguarding sensitive data and mitigating
potential risks.
- Reviewed violations of IT security procedures and engaged in
constructive discussions with violators to prevent recurrence and
promote a culture of compliance.
- Led and successfully delivered healthcare data security projects,
overseeing all aspects from planning to execution, monitoring, and
final delivery.
- Managed day-to-day IT operations, including end-user support, WAN,
LAN, and VPN connectivity, IP telephone systems, backup and
recovery, enterprise threat management, and business application
implementation.
- Collaborated with vendors to negotiate contracts and select
appropriate products or services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and
optimal performance.
- Evaluated emerging trends in information technology and
recommended upgrades or improvements to enhance organizational
capabilities.
- Coordinated disaster recovery plans to minimize downtime during
system outages or malfunctions, ensuring business continuity and
data integrity.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of relevant technologies and
equipment, staying abreast of industry advancements and best
practices.
- Conducted regular system audits to identify potential risks or
vulnerabilities, implementing proactive measures to mitigate potential
threats.
IT Manager | Jan 2014 - Jan 2017
CREATIVE Group, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Planned, designed, implemented, and managed all IT infrastructure and projects within the group of companies, ensuring seamless operations and optimal performance.
- Aligned management information system services with business objectives across the Group, maintaining professional standards and driving efficiency.
- Developed and executed a comprehensive IT strategy and infrastructure, driving the short- term and long-term vision of the Group.
- Created clear and concise documentation for software, hardware, and network configurations, facilitating ease of understanding and future reference.
- Proactively monitored system performance, identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary upgrades and optimizations to enhance efficiency.
- Stayed updated with emerging trends in information technology, recommending upgrades or improvements to stay ahead of industry advancements.
- Conducted training sessions for staff members, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively utilize computer systems and software applications.
- Established robust security protocols to safeguard data from unauthorized access or modification, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- Resolved conflicts between different stakeholders regarding IT projects, fostering collaboration and maintaining smooth project execution.
- Developed and implemented IT policies and procedures, ensuring adherence to industry standards and best practices.
- Managed the installation, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of network systems, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity and seamless operations.
Senior IT Administrator (Network & Security) | Jun 2006 - Dec 2013
WORKZ Group, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Planned, designed, implemented, and managed all IT infrastructure and projects within the group of companies, ensuring seamless operations and optimal performance.
- Aligned management information system services with business objectives across the Group, maintaining professional standards and driving efficiency.
- Developed and executed a comprehensive IT strategy and infrastructure, driving the short- term and long-term vision of the Group.
- Created clear and concise documentation for software, hardware, and network configurations, facilitating ease of understanding and future reference.
- Proactively monitored system performance, identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary upgrades and optimizations to enhance efficiency.
- Stayed updated with emerging trends in information technology, recommending upgrades or improvements to stay ahead of industry advancements.
- Conducted training sessions for staff members, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively utilize computer systems and software applications.
- Established robust security protocols to safeguard data from unauthorized access or modification, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- Resolved conflicts between different stakeholders regarding IT projects, fostering collaboration and maintaining smooth project execution.
- Developed and implemented IT policies and procedures, ensuring adherence to industry standards and best practices.
- Managed the installation, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of network systems, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity and seamless operations.
Network Admin. & Technical Supervisor (Media) | Jun 2002 - Jun 2006
Global Business Services Group, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Developed and implemented technical processes to
ensure efficient operations, resulting in improved productivity and streamlined
workflows.
- Resolved customer issues in a timely manner,
utilizing strong problem-solving skills to provide effective solutions and
maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.
- Conducted training sessions for staff on new
technologies and software applications, equipping them with the necessary
skills to perform their roles effectively.
- Monitored the performance of technical equipment
and systems, promptly troubleshooting and resolving any issues to minimize
downtime and ensure smooth operations.
- Implemented changes and improvements to enhance
operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, resulting in increased
productivity and improved service delivery.
- Provided guidance and support to team members
for complex tasks related to technology use, fostering a collaborative and
supportive work environment.
- Evaluated existing systems for security risks
and vulnerabilities, conducted regular maintenance checks on all systems,
ensuring peak performance levels and minimizing the risk of system failures or
disruptions
- implementing necessary measures to ensure data
integrity and protect against potential threats.
- Assisted in the development of IT policies,
procedures, and standards, ensuring adherence to best practices and compliance
with industry regulations.
System Administrator | Jun 2000 - May 2002
Arabian Oil, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Configured and maintained system hardware, software and network components. Installed, tested and evaluated new systems, applications and patches.
- Monitored system performance to ensure optimal operations and identified potential issues. Created user accounts and managed access rights for users.
- Developed scripts to automate routine tasks.
- Implemented security measures such as firewalls, antivirus programs.
- Set up user accounts, permissions and passwords and defined network policies and procedures.
- Improved job tasks and mentored junior team members on best practices and standards. Monitored application and print servers, rapidly responding to faults and malfunctions.
- Installed and maintained firewalls to secure on-site and cloud-based hardware against unwanted intrusions.
Chief Technical Support Engineer | Oct 1998 - May 2000
Micro Pro Computers, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
-
Provided expert technical support to customers, troubleshooting and resolving hardware and software issues promptly and effectively.
- Configured, maintained, and monitored computer systems, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing downtime.
- Installed and tested operating systems, applications, updates, patches, and service packs, ensuring smooth and secure system operations.
- Diagnosed and resolved network connectivity problems, including router configurations, IP addressing, and DHCP server setup, ensuring uninterrupted network access for users.
- Conducted thorough research on technical products, staying updated with the latest advancements, and making informed recommendations to customers.
- Created and managed user accounts in Active Directory, adhering to proper security protocols and ensuring data integrity.
- Analyzed system logs for potential problems or errors, proactively addressing issues related to system performance and security threats.
- Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously, effectively prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines.
Engineer Sales& Services (Customer Support) | Aug 1995 - Sep 1998
DIGICOM InfoTech, Kozhikode, India
- Provided exceptional customer support and sales services, recommending utility and energy services to minimize carbon footprints and meet customer needs.
- Analyzed and defined primary adjustments of products and structure constituents, ensuring optimal performance and functionality.
- Translated system-produced documents, designs, and technological representations, facilitating effective communication between technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Conducted thorough investigation processes to examine and assess the functionality and practicability of engineering structures and elements, identifying areas for improvement.
- Recommended design modifications to eliminate machine or system malfunctions, enhancing overall performance and reliability.
- Maintained consistent formatting and tense usage throughout all documentation and reports, ensuring clarity and professionalism.
- Avoided technical jargon, explaining complex engineering concepts in a manner easily understood by customers and colleagues.
- Carefully proofread all documents and reports, ensuring accuracy and error-free presentation.
Soft Skill
Skills Regularly to Keep Me Updated
Hard Skills
Hard Skills Regularly to Keep Me Updated
Certifications & Training
Pursuing Training & Certifications
2023: AI Mastery Program
2023: PMP Project Management Fundamental Concepts
2023: Prince2 Certification – foundation
2023: CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional
AWS
Oct 2024: AWS Elastic Load Balancing Essentials
Azure Cloud Training & Certification
Mar 2019: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Mar 2019: Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
EC‐Council Training & Certification
May 2008: CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) (Training & Certifications) May 2008: CHFI (Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator) (Training & Certifications)
Citrix XenApp
Jan 2013: Citrix Certified Administrator for Citrix XenApp 6V
VMWARE Certifications
Jun 2009: VMware vSphere ICM (Install, Configure, Manage) Course VCP Certification
Sep 2010: VMware Infrastructure 4.1: Install and Configure V4.1
Sep 2010: VMware Site Recovery Manager
CISCO Certifications
Sep 2010: CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) (Renewed)
Sep 2010: CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) (Training & Certifications)
ITIL V3 Foundations
Sep 2009: ITIL 3 Foundation
Microsoft Certifications
Oct 2003: Microsoft Certified Professional
Oct 2007: Microsoft Certified System Administrator
Oct 2007: Microsoft Certified System Engineer
Oct 2007: Microsoft Certified System Administrator Messaging
Oct 2007: Microsoft Certified System Engineer Messaging
Recommendations
what my colleagues saying
Anand is one of the few technocrats who has both management skills and technical skills. I would recommend Anand to anyone looking for a business partner/ IT manager. Anand is a dedicated and devoted Network Administrator who handles pressure effectively. Working in a domain where newer technologies emerge everyday, he focusses on keeping himself up to date. He never refuses to share his knowledge and experience with anyone. He has a solid technical background and strong troubleshooting skills, which would make him a stellar asset to any organization.
Anand is a pleasure to work with because his pleasent and positive attitude can make nearly any work seem interesting.
Anand possess profound expertise in IT infrastructure, Networking, Security and virtualization concepts. Able to handle high volume of work which is eminent in IT sector. He is well organized and fully equipped with skills that are in demand these days. Over the year that he has worked me me, he demonstrated excellent knowledge and competence in advanced IT practices to ensure smooth working of the facility.
Anand is a very knowledgeable IT person who is great person to work with, very reliable and never leaves you unsatisfied. Great person to employ if you're after professional outcome and outstanding friendly relationship.
Few people have the opportunity to report to a leader who is also a coach and mentor—but I did when I worked for Anand.
‘Ridiculously efficient’ is the phrase that comes to mind when I think about Anand.
I had the pleasure of working with Anand at Universal Hospital Abudhabi, collaborating on the project team.
Anand's ability to juggle multiple projects was unlike any I’ve seen before and made a dramatic difference in the productivity level of our team.
Anand would be an asset to any team.
As a team member or a leader, Anand earns my highest recommendation.
Any employee would be lucky to have Anand as a manager.
Anand has great amount of IT skill and knowledge especially in hardware systems and networking. He keeps himself up-to-date and easily adapts to emerging IT technologies. He is dedicated and always shares knowledge that he possess with collogues.
Anand enjoys vast experience in IT systems and networking, he is realy simple, hardworking and always willing to take responsibilities.
Anand is a hard-working person who like to work long hours.
Anand is a very service oriented person that showed great deal of expertise in the IT field. He has helped me out several times and with good sense of quality.
Contact Me
I Want To Hear From You
anand.raj@panangat.com
Phone
+91 7902622222
You Contact Detail
