IT Consulting Agency Desired

Looking for an IT consultant (associated with an agency) to design and implement an IT strategy that caters to our current needs, anticipates future growth, and ensures the robustness, security, and efficiency of our work-from-home environment, spanning across multiple geographical locations. Outcomes & Objectives A comprehensive IT strategy that addresses the immediate and ongoing needs, and future growth of the business. Enhanced security, reliability, and efficiency in IT operations. A clear strategy to maintain data integrity, along with metrics for continuous monitoring and improvement. A road map for the implementation of recommended strategies and solutions, with defined milestones and objectives. Support delivering the road map including developing and delivering training, implementing the system, any required migrations Deliverables - Scope The consultant will be responsible for the following areas: Infrastructure and Network Review Evaluate the current network infrastructure and approach, reviewing secure connectivity needs for remote teams. Recommend and guide the implementation of any secure network access solutions as necessary. Security, Compliance, and Data Protection Review and make recommendations to the existing security policies and practices, particularly concerning data stored on employee devices. Propose strategies for enhanced data protection, including around encryption and secure access. Stretch - Develop an incident response plan specifically targeting potential scenarios of data loss or breach. Data Management and Recovery Review strategies for secure, structured, and efficient data management including distributed and centralised data storage. Define and implement comprehensive data backup and recovery plans, including both malicious and accidental loss of data. Assess whether google remains the appropriate option for the provision of core IT services on a cost / benefit basis. Device Management and Policy Review and make recommendations to our BYOD policy and guidelines, and assess whether this remains appropriate to the business needs. Explore options for managing and securing employee-owned devices that are used for business purposes, particularly with respect to SOC2 (although deep knowledge of SOC2 is not a requirement) Consider introducing more controlled, company-owned devices, ensuring they are pre-configured with necessary security measures. Software and Applications Approach Assess the current usage of software and applications and provide recommendations for optimisation or alternatives as necessary. Specifically assist with decision around Google vs Microsoft suite Provide insights into leveraging integration between various tools and platforms. Support, Maintenance, and Ongoing Management Propose a structured IT support system to avoid over-reliance on the CTO for issue resolution. Define processes for effective issue escalation and resolution. Evaluate the need for, and propose options regarding, an ongoing IT function for the management and maintenance of the implemented IT strategy and systems. Training and Development Enhance the existing induction program to include thorough IT training. Develop continuous learning initiatives to keep the team updated on IT best practices and tools. Growth Preparedness Design an IT strategy that is scalable and can effectively support the company’s anticipated growth from 50 to 100 employees within the next year. Communication and Implementation The consultant will be responsible for developing and delivering: Effective communication strategies to inform employees of changes and garner feedback. Support in the initiation of the proposed changes, ensuring they align with business processes and employee workflows for minimal disruption. Conducting specific needs assessments to support the rationalisation of tools used and supported by the business. Qualifications Experience: Proven experience in IT strategy development, particularly for businesses with a significant remote workforce and international presence. Expertise: Strong background in network and infrastructure security. Experience with BYOD strategies and policies. Proficient in evaluating and optimising software and application portfolios. Independence: Ability to provide an agnostic view, with no affiliations pushing towards specific solutions or vendors.