Meyer Goosen

I am an experienced Information Technology Specialist with a versatile background in systems administration, web development, and I.T Management. I have a proven track record in managing IT systems, troubleshooting technical issues, and implementing effective solutions. Skilled in web development, I utilize a range of programming languages and frameworks to create dynamic and user-friendly websites. As the IT Manager, I played a key role in developing and implementing the organization's technology strategy. My strong expertise in optimizing systems, improving efficiency, and delivering exceptional IT support. I am committed to staying abreast of emerging technologies and continuously enhancing my technical proficiencies.

CAREER DETAILS
Group 1
Senior Information Technology Specialist
March 2022 - March 2023
As a Senior Information Technology Specialist my role involved providing advanced technical expertise and leadership in managing and optimizing the organization's information technology systems.
• Offered multi-level on site tech support to all branches of Group 1 in Western Cape.
• Project Management
• Oversaw and planned expansion of network infrastructure for Western Cape branches, which included,
o Upgrade user hardware to more modern and stable equipment able to handle loadshedding.
o Planned and executed expansion of network infrastructure, layout, and installation for all Western Cape Branches.
o Software expansion in terms of security, Third-party software introduction and user education to increase workflow efficiency and stability.
• Assisted in planning, documentation, and expansion of inhouse software and applications to help increase overall performance of software used within company.
• Remote first-line tech support for all branches of Group 1 across South Africa.
• Developed documentation and rules on new day-to-day operations procedures to be used within I.T environment.
• Ran acquisitions, maintenance, and repair of all end-users hardware.
• Maintained server hardware and expansions.
• Maintained and serviced network infrastructure regularly.
• Advised Directors on multiple fields of modern technology with focus on promoting company growth and adapt operations. Form new VOIP-based telecommunication systems as well plan, document and build modern off-grid infrastructure to handle increased in loadshedding. Ultimately building the roadwork and foundations towards a more Cloud based infrastructure.
The key accomplishment I'm most proud of in my role as Senior IT Specialist at Group 1
One of the main reasons I got selected for the role of Senior Information Technology Specialist came down to the many years of experience that I have within the I.T field. My main objectives being to overhaul the entire I.T infrastructure of Group 1 in the Western Cape, which would serve as the base model to be applied to the rest of the Group 1 branches in the country.
This could be broken down into the 5 phases of the life cycle of this project: Initiation, Planning, Execution, Monitoring and Closure
1. Initiation: Within the early stages I was to identify key infrastructure that had to be focused on, such as user equipment, network layout and equipment, I.S.P connecting, VOIP equipment within the company and finally the server equipment to integrate into the company, this included the researching, documenting and scaling the specifications for a custom build server to handle the multiple databases used within the company. All of this had to be meticulously researched and worked into the project charter.

2. Planning: From here I had to develop a comprehensive project plan that included tasks, timelines, budget, resources, risks, and quality criteria. This included contacting multiple suppliers, documenting and planning project timelines, estimation, and risk matrixes that had to be shared weekly with Directors to inform them on cost, timelines, and project goals.
3. Execution: From here I had to oversee the day-to-day operations of the project, including assigning tasks, tracking progress, monitoring budget, and managing team dynamics. Often equipment deliveries/ installations ran late or over the planned time and numerous on-the-fly adjustments had to be made to keep up with the timeline.
4. Monitoring and control: Constant day-to-day monitoring at multiple sites required my attention which often had me at multiple sites on the same day to keep up the project performance and to make necessary adjustments to ensure that the project remained on track.
5. Closure: Each branch came with its own challenges and in time each phase of the project as a whole came to a closure, including having me conducting a final review, documenting lessons learned, and transitioning the project deliverables to the stakeholders.
Reason for Leaving: Retrenchment
Pixelotl Designs
Information Technology Specialist (Freelance)
Dec 2018 – Febr 2022
Web Development and SEO Specialist
Held the position of Information Technology Specialist and SEO Specialist. As SEO (Search Engine Optimization) Specialist my key responsibility was to optimizing websites and online content to improve their visibility and organic search rankings on search engine results pages (SERPs). Here are some key tasks and responsibilities typically associated with an SEO Specialist
• Keyword Research: Conducting research to identify relevant keywords and phrases that potential users or customers may use when searching for specific products, services, or information.
• On-Page Optimization: Optimizing website elements such as meta tags, headings, URLs, and content to align with targeted keywords and improve search engine relevancy.
• Off-Page Optimization: Building high-quality backlinks from reputable websites to enhance the website's authority and improve its ranking potential.
• Technical SEO: Ensuring that the website's technical aspects, including site speed, mobile responsiveness, URL structure, and crawlability, are optimized for search engines.
• Content Strategy: Developing and executing a content strategy that focuses on creating valuable, informative, and engaging content optimized for both users and search engines.
• Performance Monitoring and Analysis: Monitoring website performance, analysing key metrics, and using tools like Google Analytics to track organic search traffic, keyword rankings, and other relevant data to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Staying Updated: Keeping up-to-date with the latest SEO trends, algorithm updates, and best practices to ensure strategies remain effective and compliant with search engine guidelines.
• Competitor Analysis: Conducting research on competitor websites and SEO strategies to identify areas of improvement and opportunities to outperform competitors in organic search rankings.
• Due to rapid development of technology and often fast-growing expanding needs of clients I had to keep strong research principles to keep up with development needs.
• Front-end Development: Front-end developers focus on the visual and interactive elements of a website or web application. They use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build user interfaces, implement responsive designs, and ensure a seamless user experience across different devices and browsers.
• Developed and implemented User Interface Designs or built websites from scratch using following tech stacks: HTML, CSS, Java, JavaScript, PHP, React, GitHub, WordPress, the Divi theme by Elegant Themes

2007 (NCC Education) / CTI- Cape Town – External BSc Honours Degree (Short Courses)
o Communication System Management
o Management Support System
• 2005 (NCC Education) / CTI- Cape Town – International Advanced Diploma in Computer Studies