Summary
Overview
Work History
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic
Zahid Farooq

Zahid Farooq

Bengaluru

Summary

Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect, AWS Certified Solutions Architect Professional, and Databricks Azure Platform Architect. With over 10 years of experience designing, implementing, and optimizing multi-cloud and data architectures. Currently engaged with MARS (via C5i) as a Cloud Architect for the PADLE team, overseeing 20 Azure-based projects focused on data-driven solutions, cost optimization, and operational efficiency. Extensive expertise in Microsoft Azure, AWS, and Databricks, delivering scalable, secure, and high-performance solutions across platforms. Proven track record of achieving approximately $1 million USD in savings through innovative cloud management strategies. Skilled in cross-functional collaboration, automation, and innovative problem-solving to deliver business value through technology.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience
6
6
Certification

Work History

Cloud Architect – PADLE Team - MARS

C5i
Bengaluru
01.2025 - Current
  • Managing architecture and optimization for 20 Azure-based projects catering to diverse data needs.
  • Spearheaded Azure cost management initiatives, leading to significant cost reductions and improved scalability.
  • Designed and implemented secure, high-performance cloud solutions aligned with strategic objectives.
  • Designed and delivered mission-critical infrastructure to maintain consistent availability and performance.
  • Led discussions with vendors and suppliers on technical deliverables, processes and standards.

Solution Architect – Cloud & Data PFNA

C5i
Bengaluru
04.2024 - 12.2024
  • Directed cloud architecture for 30+ analytics projects, enhancing system accessibility and performance.
  • Executed Azure cost-saving strategies, achieving ~$1 million USD in savings annually.
  • Delivered innovative cloud-based proof-of-concepts and workflows.
  • Evaluated operational processes and recommended cost-effective solutions.
  • Managed multiple projects simultaneously while ensuring quality assurance standards were met throughout the process.
  • Developed architectural blueprints and standards for enterprise application development.
  • Collaborated with vendors and external partners to integrate third-party solutions.

Associate Manager (Cloud Specialist)

C5i
Bengaluru
04.2022 - 03.2024
  • Planned and deployed cloud solutions, optimizing performance by 25%.
  • Automated data pipelines, accelerating project delivery and reducing downtime.
  • Researched and implemented new technology platforms to support development initiatives.
  • Migrated customers to latest virtual servers and storage technologies to improve performance.
  • Provided technical guidance and mentorship to junior members of the team regarding best practices for developing cloud-native applications.

Senior Analyst – Cloud Solutions Microsoft Azure

C5i
Bengaluru
08.2020 - 03.2022
  • Resolved critical Azure infrastructure issues for Microsoft's top 500 customers.
  • Improved system performance through analysis and proactive resolution.
  • Developed and implemented strategies to improve customer experience across multiple channels.
  • Assisted account executives with prospect evaluation and qualification.
  • Researched and implemented new technology platforms to support development initiatives.
  • Arranged demonstrations or equipment trials to persuade customers and drive sales.

Cloud Integration Specialist

Zen3 - A Tech Mahindra Company
Bengaluru
04.2019 - 08.2020
  • Migrated on-premises data centers to Azure, ensuring seamless transitions.
  • Led Azure training sessions for team members to enhance project efficiency.
  • Oversaw migration of on-premises infrastructure to cloud platforms, ensuring minimal downtime.
  • Managed the implementation of cloud-based solutions for customer requirements.
  • Automated cloud deployments using Terraform and Ansible to enhance operational efficiency.
  • Collaborated with DevOps engineers and SysAdmins for smooth deployment of software updates and patches.
  • Performed troubleshooting of network related issues with respect to cloud resources.
  • Met with stakeholders and presented in-depth information on hardware and software products, delivering expertise to make appropriate purchasing decisions.

Solution/Support Engineer - Microsoft

Spectrum Consultants
Bengaluru
02.2018 - 09.2018
  • Delivered advanced support for Azure Active Directory services, including integration of B2B, B2C, and single sign-on (SSO) solutions for enterprise-level clients.
  • Collaborated with global teams to design and implement multisite VPN configurations, improving cross-cloud service availability.
  • Played a critical role in troubleshooting and resolving complex identity and access management (IAM) issues.
  • Assisted enterprise clients in leveraging Azure features to align with evolving business goals and security standards.

Technical Consultant

Geeks Internetworking Technologies (GIT Info)
Bengaluru
07.2015 - 02.2018
  • Provided expertise in planning and executing Microsoft Azure migrations, ensuring reliable implementation of cloud strategies.
  • Configured and troubleshot Cisco routers and switches, optimizing network performance using protocols like EIGRP, OSPF, and BGP.
  • Installed, configured, and maintained VMware ESXi and vSphere, implementing robust virtual network environments.
  • Designed Active Directory structures, including Group Policies and delegation strategies, to enhance system security and operability.
  • Planned and implemented IP addressing strategies, configuring robust TCP/IP setups for optimized network performance.

Skills

  • Cloud architecture
  • Azure solutions
  • Cost management
  • Data migration
  • High-performance computing
  • Infrastructure design
  • Project management
  • Vendor collaboration
  • Data pipeline automation
  • Performance optimization
  • Team leadership
  • Technical documentation
  • Customer engagement
  • Problem solving
  • Stakeholder communication
  • Monitoring and logging
  • Virtualization technologies
  • Cloud security management
  • Cloud migration strategies
  • Cloud infrastructure design
  • Serverless computing
  • Hybrid cloud environments
  • Cloud architecture design
  • High availability design
  • Microservices architecture
  • Automation tools
  • Scalability planning
  • Cloud application development
  • Continuous integration, continuous deployment
  • Containerization technologies
  • Compliance and regulations
  • Network configuration
  • Multi-cloud management
  • Cloud governance
  • Data storage solutions
  • DevOps methodologies
  • Infrastructure as Code
  • Identity and Access management
  • API integration
  • Server configuration
  • Analytical skills
  • IT strategy development
  • Data optimization
  • Technical mentoring

Certification

  • Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect Expert
  • AWS Certified Solutions Architect Professional
  • Databricks Azure Platform Architect
  • Databricks EDW Presales
  • Cybersecurity and IoT (Coursera, University of Georgia)
  • Network and Communication Security (Coursera, ISC2)

Timeline

Cloud Architect – PADLE Team - MARS

C5i
01.2025 - Current

Solution Architect – Cloud & Data PFNA

C5i
04.2024 - 12.2024

Associate Manager (Cloud Specialist)

C5i
04.2022 - 03.2024

Senior Analyst – Cloud Solutions Microsoft Azure

C5i
08.2020 - 03.2022

Cloud Integration Specialist

Zen3 - A Tech Mahindra Company
04.2019 - 08.2020

Solution/Support Engineer - Microsoft

Spectrum Consultants
02.2018 - 09.2018

Technical Consultant

Geeks Internetworking Technologies (GIT Info)
07.2015 - 02.2018

Similar Profiles

CREATE PROFILE
Zahid Farooq