Richard Danu
Principal IT Architect
Accomplished IT leader with 25+ years of experience in infrastructure architecture, cloud integration, and IT strategy. Proven expertise in transforming enterprise systems, optimizing operations, and delivering secure, scalable solutions. Adept at aligning technology with business goals to drive innovation, enhance efficiency, and achieve compliance across diverse industries.
Expertise
IT Strategy & Enterprise Architecture -Â Designing scalable, secure, and innovative IT infrastructures to align with business objectives.
Cloud Integration & Management - Expertise in Azure and AWS platforms, implementing hybrid, public, and private cloud solutions to enhance efficiency and scalability.
Network Design & Security - Architecting WAN/LAN infrastructures, implementing Zero Trust principles, and achieving compliance with standards like PCI, SOC, and SOX.
Project Management & Leadership - Leading cross-functional teams using Agile/Scrum methodologies, optimizing budgets, and delivering infrastructure migrations and system upgrades.
Compliance & Risk Mitigation - Ensuring regulatory compliance and safeguarding enterprise systems through robust security frameworks and best practices.
Career Achievements
Optimized IT Infrastructure Operations - Spearheaded the migration of physical data centers to Azure and AWS, reducing operational costs by 25% and improving system scalability and reliability.
Enhanced Network Security - Designed and implemented a Zero Trust Network Architecture, achieving PCI 4.0, SOC, and state/federal compliance across enterprise environments.
Streamlined IT Processes - Developed and standardized IT architecture, operational procedures, and disaster recovery strategies, reducing downtime by 30% across global sites.
Delivered Large-Scale IT Transformations - Led the consolidation of multiple data centers into a hybrid cloud environment, improving resource utilization and ensuring business continuity during peak operations.
Professional Experience
With extensive experience in IT infrastructure and network architecture, I have led large-scale migrations to Azure and AWS, enhancing scalability and operational efficiency. I specialize in designing secure, compliant systems, implementing Zero Trust principles, and achieving PCI, SOC, and SOX certifications.
I have managed cross-functional teams in complex projects, including data center consolidations, hybrid cloud integrations, and WAN/LAN redesigns, aligning technology strategies with business goals.
My leadership emphasizes operational excellence, cost reduction, and innovation, driving transformative IT solutions for diverse industries.
Education Background and Certifications
Formal Education
Bachelor of Science in Data and Telecommunications – Mt. Sierra College, Monrovia, CA
Project Management Agile Training – Project Management Academy, 2019
Project Management Professional Training – Project Management Academy, 2017
Certifications
CISSP – Certified Information Systems Security Professional – ISC2, 2012
CCSP – Certified Cloud Security Professional – ISC2, 2021
PMP – Project Management Professional – PMI, 2017
Agile Certified Practitioner (ACP) – PMI, 2018
Enterprise Architect Certification – EACOE, 2013
Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) – Cisco, 2001
Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP) – Cisco, 2001
Personal Insights
Richard splits his time between Los Angeles and Orlando, where he lives with his wife. His sons are pursuing careers in business and finance, reflecting a shared family drive for achievement. Outside of work, Richard enjoys weight training, teaching and practicing hot yoga, stand-up paddleboarding, and taking peaceful nature walks. A novice gardener with a DIY spirit, he also excels as a BBQ grill master and loves spending time with family, friends, and embarking on adventure trips.
Reasons you should work with us!
Proven Leadership and Expertise -Â With over 25 years of experience, Richard has successfully led large-scale IT infrastructure projects, including cloud migrations, data center consolidations, and network modernizations. His deep technical knowledge and leadership ensure seamless execution of complex initiatives.
Innovative Problem Solver - Richard specializes in designing secure, scalable, and compliant IT architectures tailored to business needs. His ability to integrate cutting-edge technologies, such as Zero Trust frameworks and hybrid cloud solutions, drives efficiency and innovation.
Strategic Visionary - Richard aligns IT strategies with organizational goals, delivering solutions that enhance operational performance while staying within budget. His track record demonstrates a commitment to long-term value creation and transformative IT solutions.