Rovshan Akbarov

Experience

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  Open Society Institute - Assistance Foundation/Azerbaijan - Soros Foundation Network

  Sept 2001 - May 2004

  Network Administrator

  As a Network Administrator, I have been responsible for the day-to-day management and maintenance of computer networks within an organization. This includes tasks such as configuring network devices, monitoring network performance, troubleshooting network issues, and ensuring network security.As a Network Engineer, my role has involved designing, implementing, and maintaining computer networks. This includes planning and deploying network infrastructure, configuring network devices, optimizing network performance, and ensuring network reliability and security. I have worked with various networking technologies, protocols, and equipment to create efficient and scalable network solutions.In addition to my roles as a Network Administrator and Network Engineer, I have also served as a Cisco Academy Instructor. In this capacity, I have been responsible for teaching and delivering Cisco networking courses to students. I have helped students gain knowledge and practical skills in areas such as network fundamentals, routing and switching, network security, and wireless technologies. As an instructor, I have provided guidance, hands-on training, and support to help students succeed in their networking studies.Overall, my experience as a Network Administrator, Network Engineer, and Cisco Academy Instructor showcases my expertise in network administration, engineering, and education. I have a deep understanding of networking principles, protocols, and technologies, and I am skilled in managing, designing, and teaching about computer networks. Show less

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  OSI-Azerbaijan

  Jan 2002 - Jan 2004

  Networks Engineer, Cisco Academy Instructor

  As the Legal Main Contact of Cisco Networking Academy, I have been responsible for ensuring compliance with legal requirements and agreements related to the operation of the academy. This includes managing contracts, licenses, and intellectual property rights, as well as coordinating legal matters with Cisco and other relevant stakeholders.In my role as a System & Database Administrator and Network Engineer, I have been involved in the design, implementation, and maintenance of computer systems, databases, and network infrastructure. This includes tasks such as configuring servers, managing databases, monitoring system performance, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring data security and integrity.As an Instructor of Cisco Networking Academy, I have been responsible for delivering high-quality instruction and training to students in both regional and local academies. I have taught various Cisco networking courses, covering topics such as network fundamentals, routing and switching, network security, and wireless technologies. My role as an instructor has involved preparing course materials, conducting lectures and practical exercises, and assessing student performance.I have served as an Internet Trainer, providing training and guidance on internet technologies and best practices. I have helped individuals and organizations understand and utilize the internet effectively for their needs, including topics such as web browsing, email communication, online security, and internet research.Overall, my experience as a Legal Main Contact, System & Database Administrator, Network Engineer, Instructor of Cisco Networking Academy, and Internet Trainer showcases my diverse skill set in legal compliance, system administration, network engineering, and education. I have a comprehensive understanding of technology systems, network infrastructure, and instructional methodologies, and I am proficient in managing, teaching, and supporting various aspects of IT operations. Show less

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  AzNet Project

  May 2004 - Mar 2006

  Networks Manager

  As a Networks Manager, I have been responsible for overseeing the management and coordination of AzNET's Project System Department activities. This includes the development, implementation, and maintenance of AzNET's Project WAN infrastructure. I have also been in charge of maintaining the Central Network Operating Center (CNOC) LAN, ensuring its smooth operation and functionality.In addition to my role as a Networks Manager, I have served as the Legal Main Contact of the Cisco Networking Academy. This involves handling legal matters related to the Networking Academy program, ensuring compliance with Cisco's policies and regulations, and acting as a point of contact for any legal inquiries or issues that may arise.Furthermore, I have been an Instructor of the Cisco Network Academy at the Regional Academy level. In this capacity, I have delivered training and education to students, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills in networking and Cisco technologies. As an instructor, I have played a crucial role in shaping the learning experiences of aspiring network professionals.Additionally, I have provided technical assistance to the Regional Network Operating Centers (RNOC), supporting their operations and troubleshooting any network-related issues that may arise. This includes addressing connectivity problems, ensuring system integrity through security measures, backups, and virus protection, and offering guidance to the RNOC teams.Overall, my experience as a Networks Manager, Legal Main Contact of the Cisco Networking Academy, Instructor of the Cisco Network Academy, and my involvement in the maintenance and support of AzNET's network infrastructure highlight my expertise in network management, project coordination, legal compliance, and technical assistance. Show less

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  Cisco Systems

  Mar 2006 - Sept 2011

  As a leader providing technical direction and business guidance to the regional sales team, I have played a critical role in driving revenue and achieving business goals. My focus has been on account planning, resource planning and allocation, and creating a high-performing team of SEs (Systems Engineers). I continuously seek innovative methods to improve team performance and ensure alignment with customer requirements and goals.Main Responsibilities:• Create a territory plan by gathering input from SEs and leveraging local market knowledge to identify demand.• Collaborate with Regional Sales Managers to prioritize and target team opportunities, analyzing quantitative information to identify trends.• Lead the team in developing technical account strategies that meet customer business requirements, assigning resources accordingly.• Provide timely feedback that focuses on areas that will make the biggest impact on performance, reinforcing efforts and progress.• Monitor and measure team progress against the business plan and recommend adjustments as necessary.• Interact with business units to provide support for the local region.• Lead cross-functional projects within the assigned area of responsibility.• Facilitate effective communication and understanding of customer requirements between customers, corporate, and the field.• Proactively seek feedback to continuously improve personal performance.• Advocate for continual improvement in the customer experience to enhance brand loyalty for Cisco.• Understand the drivers of customer satisfaction and strive to improve customer experiences.In summary, my role as a leader in this position has involved providing strategic guidance, resource allocation, and driving the team towards achieving revenue goals. I have focused on improving customer experiences, fostering strong cross-functional collaboration, and continuously seeking ways to enhance team performance and deliver exceptional results. Show less As a leader providing technical direction and business guidance to the regional sales team, I have played a critical role in driving revenue and achieving business goals. My focus has been on account planning, resource planning and allocation, and creating a high-performing team of SEs (Systems Engineers). I continuously seek innovative methods to improve team performance and ensure alignment with customer requirements and goals.Main Responsibilities:• Create a territory plan by gathering input from SEs and leveraging local market knowledge to identify demand.• Collaborate with Regional Sales Managers to prioritize and target team opportunities, analyzing quantitative information to identify trends.• Lead the team in developing technical account strategies that meet customer business requirements, assigning resources accordingly.• Provide timely feedback that focuses on areas that will make the biggest impact on performance, reinforcing efforts and progress.• Monitor and measure team progress against the business plan and recommend adjustments as necessary.• Interact with business units to provide support for the local region.• Lead cross-functional projects within the assigned area of responsibility.• Facilitate effective communication and understanding of customer requirements between customers, corporate, and the field.• Proactively seek feedback to continuously improve personal performance.• Advocate for continual improvement in the customer experience to enhance brand loyalty for Cisco.• Understand the drivers of customer satisfaction and strive to improve customer experiences.In summary, my role as a leader in this position has involved providing strategic guidance, resource allocation, and driving the team towards achieving revenue goals. I have focused on improving customer experiences, fostering strong cross-functional collaboration, and continuously seeking ways to enhance team performance and deliver exceptional results. Show less In my role, I actively support partner enablement and growth by executing technical and sales training, managing technical certifications, and assisting in the development of post-sale services models. Throughout the sales process, I provide technical guidance to partners, ensuring they have the necessary resources and knowledge to succeed.Partner Enablement:• Participate in partner business planning activities, contributing to the development and execution of the partner's Technical Business Plan.• Create, execute, and review a Technical Readiness Plan with the CAM (Channel Account Manager) and ChSEM (Channel Systems Engineer Manager), establishing measurable milestones to track progress.• Facilitate the planning and preparation of partner SEs (Systems Engineers) in achieving Cisco and industry certifications.• Provide technical training to the partner's presales and post-sales technical resources, leveraging support from the extended team when needed.• Assist in setting up training plans for the partner's sales teams.• Support product/solution training for the partner's sales teams.• Assist in presenting partner technical seminars.• Educate partners on available Cisco Customer Assurance (CA) and professional service resources and tools.In summary, my role involves supporting partners throughout their journey by providing technical guidance, facilitating training and certification processes, and acting as a key contact for technical issues. I contribute to the growth and success of partners by enabling them to leverage Cisco technology effectively and aligning their strategies with our solutions. Additionally, I collaborate with internal teams to provide feedback on product features and improvements. Show less In my role as a NetAcad Consultant, I am responsible for managing the field operations of the Cisco Network Academy Program. This includes various tasks such as attending to prospect academy applications, managing current networking academies, and handling operational processes related to lab kits, curriculum updates, and Academy Connection approvals. I act as a bridge between regional academies and their respective Cisco Academy Training Centers (CATC).Promoting the Cisco Network Academy Program is another crucial aspect of my role. I actively engage in communication actions to raise awareness and generate interest across the education sector. This involves utilizing various channels such as printed media, direct marketing, and direct phone calls and visits to universities and other educational institutions. Additionally, I promote the program at government levels to showcase its value and benefits.Managing the student population is an important part of my responsibilities. I monitor student satisfaction, track the number of students in covering countries, and analyze the academy splits. I develop strategies to increase student enrollment and ensure that the Cisco Network Academy Program remains relevant in the market. By fostering a high number of skilled networking experts, we contribute to customers' confidence in acquiring Cisco solutions, knowing that there is a pool of professionals capable of operating Cisco equipment and technologies.I contribute to the perception that Cisco not only supplies technology but also demonstrates a commitment to the social impact of technology. In summary, as a NetAcad Consultant, I oversee the field operations of the Cisco Network Academy Program, promote the program across various sectors, manage the student population, and support Sales Account Managers in customer engagements. My role is integral to the success and growth of the Cisco Network Academy Program and its impact on the market. Show less

  • Systems Engineer Manager

    Aug 2010 - Sept 2011

  • Systems Engineer Manager

    Feb 2009 - Aug 2010

  • Channel Systems Engineer

    Mar 2007 - Feb 2009

  • Area Academy Manager. Cisco Network Academy Program (Central Asia Countries, Azerbaijan, Georgia)

    Mar 2006 - Mar 2007
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  R.I.S.K.

  Jan 2012 - Sept 2015

  Business Development Manager

  As a Business Development Manager and Network Engineers Manager, I have demonstrated strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of both business development and technical aspects related to network infrastructure. My role has encompassed overseeing the Business Development Group and its sub-divisions, managing all processes and activities related to business development within the company.Key Responsibilities as a Business Development Manager:• Leading sales and client-relationship management efforts, establishing and nurturing relationships with clients.• Developing strategic partnerships to expand the company's presence and enhance its offerings.• Contributing to overall company management as a member of the senior management team.Key Responsibilities as a Network Engineers Manager:• Providing technical direction and business guidance to the Network Engineers team.• Coordinating team activities and special projects to ensure timely delivery and quality outcomes.• Supervising staff, conducting interviews, hiring new team members, and providing coaching and orientation.Notable Projects & Achievements:• VTB Azerbaijan - Successfully managed the implementation of the new HQ and branch network infrastructure. Acted as a senior salesperson, solution architect, and managed the implementation team.• AccessBank - Played a key role in designing and implementing the new HQ network infrastructure as a senior salesperson and solution architect.• ExpressBank - Led the sales efforts, acted as a solution architect, and managed the implementation team for the new HQ and branch network infrastructure.• Heydar Aliyev Airport - Contributed as a senior salesperson, solution architect, and managed the implementation team for the new terminal complex's network infrastructure.• Served as a member of the Board of Directors, actively contributing to the company's strategic decision-making process. Show less

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  Hewlett Packard Enterprise

  Oct 2015 - Dec 2017

  Enterprise Group Consulting Pursuit Lead and Solution Architect (Azerbaijan/Kazakhstan)

  In my role as an Enterprise Group Consulting Pursuit Lead and Solution Architect, I have been responsible for leading and driving successful consulting pursuits and providing expert solutions for clients in Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan. My main focus has been on delivering customized and well-designed solutions while ensuring architectural governance and adherence to best practices.Key Responsibilities:• Customizing and designing solutions tailored to meet clients' specific needs and requirements.• Defining and implementing architectural governance to ensure consistency and alignment with industry standards.• Leading architecture teams in complex and large-scale projects, overseeing architecture activities and guiding the team towards successful outcomes.• Assessing the business impact of various technologies and strategies, identifying potential risks, and implementing mitigation measures.• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to address technical and operational challenges and deliver high-quality solutions.Notable Project:• AzInTelecom Main Data Center (2016): Served as the Solution Architect and Project Manager for this significant project. Led the solution architecture efforts, ensuring the successful implementation of the data center solution.Through my expertise as a Solution Architect and pursuit lead, I have consistently delivered value to clients by providing innovative and effective solutions that align with their business objectives. My ability to navigate complex projects and lead teams has contributed to the successful delivery of projects and the achievement of client satisfaction. Show less

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  ITech Group

  Sept 2018 - May 2024

  Business Development Partner & Technology Consultant

  As a Business Development Partner and Technology Consultant at iTech Group, I am responsible for driving business growth, increasing revenue, and expanding the company's presence. My role involves identifying and developing new business opportunities, managing client relationships, tracking market trends, recommending innovative products and services, and establishing strategic partnerships. I contribute to the overall management of the company as a member of the senior management team.In addition to my business development responsibilities, I serve as a solutions architect, evaluating customers' business needs and aligning them with IT solutions. I leverage my expertise in software, hardware, and infrastructure to develop and improve technical solutions that support the organization's goals. Key Responsibilities:• Drive the entire business development cycle, from idea generation and opportunity identification to strategic solution offerings and collaboration with the Marketing and Sales teams.• Provide strategic direction to the company, defining and implementing business development strategies and policies.• Conduct market research, introduce new products, and foster market development for portfolio brands.• Design comprehensive solutions that address client requirements, both technically and operationally, and develop long-term IT strategies and plans.Notable Achievements:• Recognized as the Best New Partner of the Year in 2019 by HPEnterprise.• Attained Silver Partner status with Aruba Networks and Gold Partner with Sophos.• Achieved Titanium Partner and Solution Provider status with 3CX.By combining my business development expertise with my technical acumen, I bring a unique perspective to driving growth and delivering innovative IT solutions. I am committed to fostering long-term partnerships, providing exceptional client service, and contributing to the success of organizations in the ever-evolving technology landscape. Show less

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  MUK Azerbaijan

  Jun 2024 - now

  Head of DELL Technologies Department (Azerbaijan)