Check Point Experts in Germany

• Operation and further development of the network and security infrastructure.

• Monitoring, analysis and resolution of network and security incidents.

• Cross-department collaboration with other specialist teams for operations, further development and reporting.

• Firewall vulnerability analysis.

• Firewall rule approvals.

• Troubleshooting IP communication issues in the network and firewall infrastructure.

• Security-critical IT infrastructure, processing of personal data, compliance with legal regulations.

• Products: Palo Alto Networks Firewalls, Cisco ACI, Checkpoint Firewalls, F5

• Technologies: SDN, SDWAN, Cisco EPIC, Cisco ACI

Project: Process optimization & IT support in an insurance broker office.

Project activities:

• Analysis of processes and definition of requirements
• Consulting for the implementation of a cloud solution (soho)
• Installation and verification of new infrastructure HW
• Cloud installation & configuration
• Definition and creation of use cases
• Performing user acceptance tests (UAT)
• User training / training
• IT support (cloud, PC, server, printer, network)

Label: Insurance, infrastructure, configuration, training, support

Unified ITSM framework

• Definition of a company-wide ITSM target picture
• Introduction of a uniform service structure across all business units

SLA and OLA management

• Building a standardized SLA framework
• Definition of service classes (Business Critical, Standard, Low Priority)
• Introduction of OLAs between internal teams
• Building meaningful SLA reporting
• Definition of KPI and service dashboards for business units

Service portfolio management

• Definition of service descriptions
• If needed, preparing possible cost and service billing

Ticketing & processes

• Incident management
• Uniform ticket categories
• Standardized prioritization
• Escalation matrix
• Automations
• Self-service optimization

Request fulfillment

• Service catalog across all business units
• Approval workflows

Problem management

• Introduction of root cause analysis
• Known error database
• Problem review process

Complete asset management concept

• Hardware lifecycle management
• Software lifecycle management
• Leasing lifecycle
• Mobile device lifecycle
• Monitor lifecycle
• Phone lifecycle

Processes

• Procurement
• Goods receipt
• Inventory
• Assignment
• Return
• Disposal
• Leasing return Goal: single source of truth for all assets

CMDB design

• Definition of all configuration items:
• Workplace
• Notebooks
• Monitors
• Mobile phones
• Printers

Infrastructure

• Servers
• Firewalls
• Switches
• WLAN
• Storage
• Backup systems

Cloud

• Azure resources
• Microsoft 365
• SaaS services

Relationships

• User ↔ Asset
• Asset ↔ Service
• Service ↔ Infrastructure
• Location ↔ Asset
• Goal: make all service dependencies visible

Software asset & license management

• License management concept
• License balancing
• Compliance reporting
• Microsoft license management
• Adobe license management
• SaaS management
• Contract management
• Renewal management

Interfaces & automation Existing systems

• Workday
• Joiner
• Mover
• Leaver

TESMA

• Leasing data
• Contract data

Matrix42

• Asset synchronization
• User synchronization

Active Directory / Entra ID

• User management

Microsoft 365

• License assignment
• Group management

Dormakaba

• Access processes

• Lifecycle services

Monitoring platforms

• PRTG
• Palo Alto
• Cisco

Reporting & KPI framework

• Definition of a management dashboard
• KPIs
• Ticket volume
• SLA fulfillment
• MTTR
• First resolution rate
• Asset accuracy
• License compliance
• Change success rate
• Service availability
• Degree of automation

Network redesign support

• Governance
• Support of the network redesign from an ITSM point of view
• Definition of affected services
• Change management structure
• Communication concept

CMDB integration

• Recording of all network components
• Service mapping
• Dependency analysis

Validation of documentation and knowledge base articles

• Network documentation
• Operations documentation
• Standard changes

Monitoring & event management

• Target picture
• Central monitoring concept
• Event management process
• Alerting strategy
• Escalation model

Systems

• Cisco

• Palo Alto

• Fortinet

• Rubrik

• Veeam

• Matrix42

• Azure

• Microsoft 365 Automation

• Ticket creation from monitoring

• Escalations

• Standard actions

Audit, compliance & information security

• ISO 27001 consulting
• TISAX consulting
• NIS2 preparation - consulting
• Audit-ready processes
• Documentation structure
• Evidence tracking in Matrix42

Roadmap

• 12-month roadmap
• Prioritization of all measures
• Quick wins
• Medium-term projects
• Long-term target picture
• Documentation

• As-is assessment of the current network infrastructure and its documentation, including on-site inspections
• Independent planning of new distribution and main distribution rooms in the individual district offices (components used, rack layout, connectivity), considering the BSI IT-Grundschutz and InfoSic requirements
• Planning of new copper and fiber optic cabling, including patch panels
• Coordination with building services engineering (TGA) to ensure compliance with relevant on-site requirements
• Development of detailed execution plans and high-level concepts for the rollout of the new infrastructure
• Additional support after the components go live (hypercare phase)
• Regular communication with project management and client stakeholders

• Requirements analysis and replacement of local SharePoint as CMDB with open source NetBox to prepare for deploying Cisco ACI (SD-WAN) with Microsoft Azure
• Coordination with systems like Checkmk and Grasp
• Introduction and coordination of cmdbsyncer as CMDB data hub; further development of the syncer with Kuhn & Ruess GmbH
• Implementation of SNMPv3 on AIX LPAR/VIO, Linux, Windows, SAN/storage, network components (Cisco switches, F5 load balancers, Palo Alto and CheckPoint firewalls, iLO boards)
• Deployment and further development of the network scanner JDisc in cooperation with the vendor (Utimaco HSMs, Linux detection)
• Integration of NetBox, JDisc, and cmdbsyncer into the infrastructure using Docker containers
• End-user training: preparation, creation of materials, and delivery
• Creation of data flow and network diagrams
• Population and planning of IPv4/IPv6 with NetBox including VLAN import
• Dual-stack setup of servers and clients with IPv4 and IPv6
• Connection of REST interfaces for Checkmk, JDisc, vSphere, HMC, i-doit, NetBox Software: Confluence, Jira, MS Office 365, Teams, i-doit, NetBox, JDisc, cmdbsyncer, DB Visualizer, vSphere, HMC

• Overall coordination of service providers for all infrastructure topics at a production site being set up in Baden-Württemberg
• Design and finding solutions for internet connectivity, building office communication networks, setting up WLAN in production and administration buildings, IP address management, password policies, time tracking, access control systems, backup strategies, emergency power planning, operating concepts, cost planning, event management, workplace setup including laptop/mobile phones/telephony, remote support, print servers
• Selecting suitable external service providers and planning to meet needs for spare parts, repairs, on-site service, network and workplace support including on-site system replacement by providers
• Choosing suitable external service providers for facility management and building technology (fiber optic connections, data center infrastructure, cable ducts etc.)
• Coordination with clients and service providers
• Escalation management, schedule control
• On-site presence for service meetings and managing service providers

I implemented a Zero-Trust architecture for robust, military-grade maritime container mini data centers based on VMware & Tanzu to support containerized GIS workloads for ground forces. The main focus was on securing communications, workload protection, and data access in contested electronic battle environments affected by jamming, interception, signal manipulation, and constantly changing operational conditions. I designed and architected use cases so that every element of workload, identity, and system could continue to operate independently and securely even in degraded or disrupted scenarios. In parallel, I defined the enterprise and solution security architecture with LeanIX, Bizzdesign, and HOPEX as enterprise architecture, repository, and governance platforms to maintain architecture inventory, relationships, traceability, target pictures, and security governance in complex environments. For the architectural designs, I used Sparx Enterprise Architect to describe formal architecture views, interfaces, trust boundaries, and system architecture in both IT and OT environments. IriusRisk was used for threat modeling of the solution to identify architecture-driven risks, derive security requirements, and detect countermeasures and design gaps directly from the solution models. Risk and compliance management was supported with Archer. Architecture decisions, control gaps, and operational risks were translated into controlled governance and auditable compliance measures. For documentation, collaboration, and visual design, I used Confluence to maintain Architecture Decision Records, Security Blueprints, and workflows. I used Lucidchart and draw.io to create design artifacts tailored to stakeholders. I also defined OT security concepts with support from electrical and mechanical engineers in the areas of oil, vehicle onboard systems, rail, power plants, pharma, gas turbines, and nuclear technology. I created the end-to-end OT security strategy, starting with global policy, developed into standards and procedures, and finally aligned with Bell-LaPadula, Purdue Model, SABSA, TOGAF ADM, CENELEC 50701, IEC 62443, and NIST standards. In addition, I worked with engineering team leads to identify critical KBP assets and place them under protective measures that segmented SCADA, PLC, and HMI assets. I drove collaboration between Security, IT, and OT teams to create standardized workflows and use cases for the OT security solution catalog, while integrating Defense-in-Depth and Zero-Trust principles into operational environments. A key part of my work was integrating multidisciplinary engineering, security, and operations stakeholders into a unified security blueprinting strategy and ensuring that architecture, threat modeling, governance, and documentation were technically strong and operationally practical.

• Operation and further development of a SASE infrastructure based on Netskope

• Manage the development release and update process for a digitized nationwide trade register project "AuRegis".

• Support software in Kubernetes/OpenShift environments, configure management with Kustomize, and implement CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins/GitLab, SonarQube, ArgoCD, and Azure.

• Oversee system release of microservice architecture.

• Build the CI/CD stack from scratch with GitLab CI, integrating integration tests, dependency checks, and security measures.

• Automate deployment onto OpenShift using Kustomize.

• Set up infrastructure components for development, code review, and code quality analysis including SonarQube.

• Integrate GitOps tools such as Kustomize and ArgoCD, using both Azure and private cloud for sensitive data handling.

• Develop Python scripts in Jenkins for cryptostore configuration and system packaging of products and microservices into deployable units.

• Automate delivery to customers and deployment on test systems.

• Create Kustomize manifests for microservices and develop the related automation, treating documentation as code for clarity and reproducibility.

• Serve as technical advisor for the project's first go-live and oversee further deployments as technical rollout manager.

• Designed and specified the technical network integration of a new business-critical application system (MUREX) in the capital markets area in a complex interface and outsourcing environment.

• Created component specifications, a catalog of measures and an implementation plan.

• Ensured proper integration of the developed results in line with the bank’s framework: IT compliance, IT security, change and release management.

• Selected and integrated a new service provider for the bank; moved critical bank applications to the provider.

• Designed, implemented and supported the new Cisco network and Fortinet security setup at the service provider data center.

• Acted as technical interface between the bank, service providers and consulting partners.

• Supported and further developed the network and security infrastructure (clients, servers, networks); performed error analysis and implemented solutions within agreed service levels.

• Analyzed and diagnosed all security and network failures, glitches and malfunctions.

• Initiated continuous improvements to ensure efficient resource use and acceptable response times for users.

• Provided network support in a financial services organization and prepared operational changes on production banking network infrastructure for both large and small projects within strict change management discipline.

• Designed, defined, tested, governed and improved engineering standards.

• Performed the role of network architect for medium to large projects involving team resources.

• Support of firewalls (Securepoint)
• Operation and maintenance of the client-server infrastructure (Windows)
• Operation and patching of IoT devices in the hazard management system (cameras, Web IOS, IP serial converters)
• Support with the integration of security technology into existing IT infrastructures
• Planning and execution of network segmentation and separation
• Transfer and implementation of solutions to other plants
• Tools used: Wireshark, Network Service Manager, PRTG, Cisco Catalyst, Nexus, HP Service Manager, FNT/Command Manager Console, ServiceNow, Confluence, Active Directory, Wingard, Securepoint FW

As part of the preparation and operational support of a business succession:

• Company analysis: Analysis of the overall economic, organizational and structural situation (current state, strengths/weaknesses, risk potentials)
• Process analysis: Recording and documentation of all relevant business processes (BPMN, UML) in the areas of management, finance, procurement, sales and operations
• Process optimization: Identification of weaknesses and inefficiencies, development and operational implementation of improvement measures
• Stakeholder management: Identification and analysis of all relevant internal and external stakeholders; structured communication and coordination with previous and future owners, shareholders and employees
• Change management: Supporting the workforce and management through the handover process; building acceptance and trust among all participants
• Governance & documentation: Creation and handover of structured operation manuals, process documentation and organizational handbook for the new business owner
• Risk & vulnerability analysis: Assessment of operational and strategic risks in the handover process and development of recommended actions
• Operational support: Interim takeover of leadership tasks; ensuring business continuity during the transition phase

Enterprise & Cloud Security Architect supporting the modernization of the SDK application landscape as part of the KVNeo transformation program. Responsible for enterprise architecture, cloud governance, security architecture, and the definition of technical standards for strategic business applications.

Key responsibilities include architecture governance, target architecture development, cloud and integration architecture, security-by-design, and the translation of regulatory requirements into sustainable technical solutions across multiple business domains.

Responsibilities and achievements

• Designed and reviewed target architectures for strategic insurance applications and enterprise services.
• Developed architecture documentation based on Arc42 and Architecture Decision Records (ADRs).
• Defined governance models, architecture principles, and technical guidelines for cross-domain initiatives.
• Supported the modernization of archive, document management, and output management platforms.
• Designed integration architectures using REST APIs and event-driven communication patterns.
• Led architecture discussions with enterprise architects, development teams, product owners, and business stakeholders.
• Translated regulatory requirements such as DORA and ISO/IEC 27001 into practical architecture decisions.
• Designed security concepts covering Identity & Access Management, authorization, authentication, auditability, and logging.
• Supported SIEM integration, security monitoring, and enterprise logging concepts.
• Evaluated technical risks, technical debt, and architecture improvements while providing decision papers for architecture boards.
• Established architecture governance processes and contributed to enterprise-wide transformation initiatives.
• Supported cloud governance activities and the definition of secure cloud architecture standards.
• Facilitated architecture workshops and coordinated cross-functional stakeholders across business and IT.

Technologies & Methods Microsoft Azure • Arc42 • Architecture Decision Records (ADR) • REST APIs • Event-Driven Architecture • Microsoft Entra ID • Active Directory • IAM • SIEM • Cloud Governance • Enterprise Architecture • Security Architecture • Azure API Management • Jira • Confluence • Draw.io • DORA • ISO/IEC 27001 • Agile • Scrum

• Installation, planning, maintenance and further development of the server farm in the area of hardware and software
• Migration of live systems with minimized downtime
• Processing tickets and changes in daily business
• Documentation of changes and processes in Confluence
• Test runs in the development environment
• Configuration and administration of Linux systems
• Configuration and administration of backup systems (Dell Networker, DataDomain)
• Administration of the Checkpoint firewall