ACAlex Cooper
@alexcooper
Strategic IT leader with expertise in cybersecurity and AI integration.
United KingdomWhat I'm looking for
I am a strategic, hands-on IT leader with over 16 years of experience managing secure and scalable systems across SaaS and SME environments. My proven record in leading IT operations, cybersecurity, and AI-powered automation has been instrumental in driving success for remote-first businesses. Currently, I operate at the Head of IT level, overseeing infrastructure, SOC operations, and AI integrations for a fast-moving SaaS company.
In my current role as IT Operations Manager at ISMS.online, I lead all aspects of IT, focusing on information security. I have successfully built and integrated AI tools using OpenAI and Python, linked our platform with PowerBI for real-time insights, and implemented MDM to manage patching and updates across multiple platforms. My commitment to security is evident through regular threat hunting and incident response, ensuring our systems remain robust and secure.
Throughout my career, I have demonstrated my ability to translate business needs into technical strategies, reduce risk, and modernize infrastructure. I thrive in dynamic environments and am passionate about mentoring teams and supporting stakeholders to achieve their goals.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
IT Operations Manager
ISMS.online
Aug 2022 - Present (2 years 11 months)
Led IT operations, long-term planning, and security strategy for a SaaS company focused on information security. Built and integrated AI tools using OpenAI, Python, and PowerAutomate, including custom GPTs for reporting, analytics, and automation.
Freelance IT Specialist
Self-Employed
Jan 2008 - Present (17 years 6 months)
Provided computer and phone repairs, server maintenance, and data recovery services. Offered emergency support to businesses and collaborated with cloud/datacenters on hardware fixes and backups.
Junior IT Manager
Secret Linen Store
Feb 2022 - Aug 2022 (6 months)
Managed all IT systems, security, and support, working closely with company directors on business growth planning. Wrote IT and security policies, delivered cyber awareness training, and managed Windows and MacOS environments with Mosyle MDM.
IT Technician
DualEnergy/Smartest Energy
May 2019 - Feb 2022 (2 years 9 months)
Provided 1st/2nd line support for UK and overseas teams, including a full Windows 10 rollout and system reimaging project. Handled network vulnerability scans, reporting, and fixes, and supported backend systems with scripting and SQL.
IT Support Advisor
HIT Training
Jul 2018 - May 2019 (10 months)
Ran service desk operations and planned infrastructure projects, contributing to the company's Cyber Essentials Plus certification. Managed G Suite, MobileIron MDM, and Google Domains, and responded to data breaches.
Service Support Technician
PAV IT
Feb 2018 - Jul 2018 (5 months)
Worked on urgent support tickets, including outages and VPN issues, supporting customers using O365 and Citrix. Managed remote support, server maintenance, and software installations.
IT Support
Rocket Marketing Group
Jul 2017 - Feb 2018 (7 months)
Supported AD/VMware environments, antivirus, and ISO9001 compliance, performing security testing for websites and apps. Managed Avaya IP phones and internal network systems.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
COCompTIA
Certification, Cybersecurity
Obtained the CompTIA Security+CE certification, demonstrating proficiency in cybersecurity fundamentals and best practices.
UBUniversity of Brighton
Diploma, Digital Games Production
Completed a program in Digital Games Production, focusing on the development and production aspects of digital games.
UBUniversity of Brighton
Undergraduate Study, Computer Science (Games)
Undertook studies in Computer Science with a specialization in Games, building a foundation in computing principles relevant to game development.
CBCity College Brighton
Access to Higher Education Diploma, Computing
Completed an Access to HE program in Computing, preparing for university-level studies in the field of computer science.
Heathfield Community College / Lewes College
GCSEs, General Studies
Achieved GCSE qualifications in core subjects including Maths, Science, English, and IT, establishing a strong academic foundation.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
United KingdomAuthorized to work in
Salary expectations
Social media
Job categories
Skills
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