Pranish Kumar
Auckland,Auckland
Summary
High-performing Security Operations and Cloud Engineer with 12+ years of hands-on experience across cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), cybersecurity operations, and infrastructure management. Proven track record of detecting, responding to, and mitigating security threats in cloud-first environments. Skilled at driving security initiatives, uplifting SIEM coverage, strengthening identity management (Azure AD / Entra ID), and aligning cloud governance with industry frameworks like NIST. Known for blending technical depth with a strategic outlook, proactive collaboration, and thriving in fast-paced, delivery-driven environments focused on continuous improvement and innovation.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Cloud/ System Engineer Level 3
ECL GROUP NZ
05.2022 - Current
- Design and complete Cloud Migration Projects for ECL’s Clients. Implement cloud frameworks and manage hybrid environments (AWS) for ECLs customers (Z, Waitomo, Mini Tankers, NZPost)
- Conduct internal and external penetration testing, threat modelling, and remediation planning.
- Strengthen SIEM coverage and incident response plans-Inhouse and across customer platforms in Cloud
- Secure and maintain Network devices, Windows Server, Linux Servers, Windows machines in the environment.
- Assist projects and L2s with any potential automation via PowerShell and Terraform for cloud operations and any ongoing maintenance task.
- Design and optimize security monitoring, alerting, and logging processes for Cloud (CSPM, Security hub, Defender, Z scalar)
- Create Cyber awareness within business and customers.
- Mentor L1/L2 teams and assist with security escalations.
- Deploy Microsoft Defender for Cloud to secure multi-cloud environments.
- Trained junior engineers on best practices related to system administration, providing guidance and mentorship for their professional growth.
- Improved system efficiency by implementing and optimizing hardware and software components.
- Monitored and tested application performance to identify potential bottlenecks, develop solutions and collaborate with developers on solution implementation.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, meeting tight deadlines while maintaining high-quality deliverables.
- Established a culture of shared responsibility for cyber hygiene within the organization through effective communication of policies, procedures and expectations around securing sensitive information.
- Reduced cyber attack risks by conducting thorough vulnerability assessments and penetration testing.
IT Systems Engineer L1-L2
ALTUS NZ
10.2018 - 05.2022
- Administered DNS, AD, DHCP, Group Policies, and Azure environments.
- First responder in cyber incidents, helping implement risk and incident management plans.
- Delivered security monitoring (CloudStrike, SMX) and network monitoring via PRTG.
- Part of SIEM discussions and implementation roadmaps.
- Support daily end users applications and operations.
- Implement improved network and computing.
IT Field Service Engineer
DDS IT
05.2018 - 10.2018
- System administration and end-user support across multiple domains.
- PowerShell scripting for automating administrative tasks.
- Established strong relationships with customers through clear communication and consistent follow-up on outstanding issues.
- Performed detailed diagnostics to accurately identify root causes and implement appropriate solutions for improved system performance.
- Completed preventive maintenance on machines to enhance production and maintain quality.
Desktop Support Engineer
TOTAL IT
01.2018 - 05.2018
- Windows 10 rollout and end-user training on Office365 and security best practices.
- Improved help desk ticket resolution times through diligent prioritization of requests based on urgency level.
IT Helpdesk Engineer
Reserve Bank of Fiji
10.2013 - 10.2014
- Provided technical support to 500+ users across LAN/WAN environments.
- Contributed to Green ICT initiatives.
- Established strong working relationships with clients through exceptional communication skills, fostering trust and collaboration.
- Managed inventory of computer equipment, standardizing hardware configurations for ease of maintenance and scalability.
- Installed, configured, tested and maintained operating systems, application software, and system management tools.
- Provided remote support to offsite users, ensuring minimal disruption during business travel or remote work scenarios.
Systems Engineer / Service Desk Engineer
Datec Fiji Limited
02.2011 - 09.2013
- Level 1 & 2 technical support and helpdesk management.
- Installed and troubleshot Cisco networking devices.
- Completed software updates and assessed security patches for optimized computer use.
- Analyzed system requirements, developing tailored solutions that met or exceeded client expectations.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of emerging technologies, incorporating innovative solutions into existing systems when appropriate.
- Conducted in-depth system audits to identify and rectify potential vulnerabilities.
Education
Post Graduate - Computing (Networking and Data Communication)
Degree - Information Technology
Skills
- Cloud Security & Compliance
- Identity & Access Management (IAM)
- Firewall & Network Security
- Cloud Computing, Design & Development
- Infrastructure as Code (IaC) & Automation
- DevSecOps & CI/CD Security
- Offensive Security & Ethical Hacking
- Incident Response & Threat Intelligence
- Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC)
- Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity
- Operating Systems & System Administration
- Virtualization & Containerization (VMware, Hyper-V, Docker, Kubernetes)
Certification
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (in progress: Solutions Architect Associate)
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certified
- Certified in ITIL v3, PRINCE2 Foundation, Agile Lean Delivery
- Certified Security Professional (LinkedIn Learning)
- CCNA Routing & Switching (v3)
- VMware Certified Associate - Data Center Virtualization (VCA-DCV)
- Microsoft SharePoint Online Administrator
Accomplishments
- Cyber Security Conference Participation – Auckland
- Cyber Awareness Training – Defend Against Phishing Attacks
Timeline
Cloud/ System Engineer Level 3
ECL GROUP NZ
05.2022 - Current
IT Systems Engineer L1-L2
ALTUS NZ
10.2018 - 05.2022
IT Field Service Engineer
DDS IT
05.2018 - 10.2018
Desktop Support Engineer
TOTAL IT
01.2018 - 05.2018
IT Helpdesk Engineer
Reserve Bank of Fiji
10.2013 - 10.2014
Systems Engineer / Service Desk Engineer
Datec Fiji Limited
02.2011 - 09.2013
Degree - Information Technology
Post Graduate - Computing (Networking and Data Communication)
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