Ready for New Opportunities

Highly Accomplished IT Leader and Infrastructure Transformation Expert. 

Charismatic and influential leader with over two decades of diverse leadership experience, driving innovation and delivering results.

Bringing extensive expertise in enhancing internal IT operations and engineering across diverse industries. Known for visionary, strategic leadership with a strong track record in technology implementation, budget management, cost savings, and strategic planning.

Committed to aligning strategies for business objectives, nurturing self-sufficient, dynamic teams for seamless operations, and fostering growth and success across domains. 

Open to leadership roles in various fields

In Career Transition 

ExpressVPN

Stepping into the realm of ExpressVPN, a global leader in digital privacy, I took the helm as the Head of Information Technology during some transformative times. My tenure was marked by orchestrating intricate system environments, driving forward-thinking IT strategies, and ensuring our technology infrastructure supported the robust needs of millions of users worldwide.

After the acquisition by Kape Technologies, I was promoted to the head of IT for the group of companies. This journey started with a huge project of merging the IT systems across the board.

Under my leadership, the IT department flourished as we embarked on ambitious projects, from streamlining legacy systems to pioneering next-gen IT solutions. My approach consistently bridged the gap between business and IT, ensuring our technological advances directly supported ExpressVPN's overarching mission and business goals.

Head Of Information Technology

Nutanix

At Nutanix, a powerhouse in hyper-converged infrastructure solutions, I took on the pivotal role of IT Operations Director for the APAC region. Overseeing a landscape as diverse and dynamic as APAC presented both challenges and exhilarating opportunities, a tapestry I thoroughly relished weaving.

My primary responsibilities encompassed driving the strategic IT vision across APAC, ensuring seamless system integrations, and providing unwavering support to our business units in the region. With a focus on blending technical expertise with a business-centric approach, I successfully led numerous initiatives that streamlined operations, reduced costs, and enhanced productivity.

IT Operations Director - APAC

VPK Packaging Group

At VPK Packaging Group's Coreboard Division, a leader in sustainable packaging solutions, my tenure as the Director of IS and Technology was both intense and rewarding. With the industry in the throes of digital transformation, my role was instrumental in aligning the division's technological framework with its ambitious growth goals.

In those seven months, I delved deep into refining the division's information systems, optimising operations, and spearheading technology-driven strategies that added tangible value to our processes. By combining my extensive IT insights with VPK's sustainability vision, we embarked on initiatives that fostered innovation and improved efficiency.

Director of IS and Technology at VPK Coreboard Division

NPAC Holdings Ltd

At NPAC Holdings, I steered the IT and Infrastructure direction, aligning tech solutions with business needs. My role was pivotal in streamlining operations, harnessing innovation, and ensuring a robust technological foundation for the company's ambitious growth trajectory.

Director of IT and Infrastructure

Powerflute

In my consultancy role at Powerflute, I was engaged on a short term to define and deliver a full stack of IT services when powerflute bought corenso from StoraEnso. This short term role then turned in to the full time role at NPAC.

IT Consultant

Volex PLC

I have been productively involved in the transformation of the global IT infrastructure of the UK listed Volex Group PLC with offices in Asia Pacific (APAC), Europe and the Americas and took responsibility for the operational IT management of the company’s facilities for more than 2 000 users in three regions globally, and for more than 30 local and remote staff.
This was one of the largest IT projects in the company’s history, costing $4 million to transform its IT platforms over a period of two years to a modern, centralised system.

Key achievements included, inter alia:
Extension of two regional data centres using IBM hardware and VMWare virtualisation software.
Migrating Email to MS Exchange and migrating global desktop and server to a single manufacturer and image.
Perimeter security, remote access and penetration testing, as well as MS Lync for global VoIP calling and voice/video conferencing.
Globalising and legalising all software licensing.
Managing vendor relationships with suppliers such as AT&T, Singtel and Microsoft.

As Infrastructure Manager of Volex, I also ensured efficient use of global resources by centralising the IT department, reducing staff by 40% and implementing service level agreements (SLA’s) and a service desk system to track the department’s performance and enable continued service improvement. I furthermore helped to safeguard the ability of the business to meet its goals by implementing process improvements and more functional systems.
I was involved in numerous green field site builds, including the provision of building work, cabling, desktops, a local data centre, a Cisco Call Manager and WAN/WWW connectivity for a 200-user factory in Batam, Indonesia – a $300 k project completed on time and within budget.

Global IT Infrastructure Manager

API Group PLC

In this role I was accountable for the global IT infrastructure of this UK-listed manufacturing company with operations in Europe and the Americas and took responsibility of an IT budget of $0.75 million US dollars, as well as regional IT support teams of eight staff in four regional locations.
During my tenure, I migrated the legacy distributed IT infrastructure into centralised, standardised systems for group-wide operations to simplify support and maintenance.
I furthermore consolidated the global IT budget at less than two percent of the group’s turnover by a reduction of 60%. At the same time, I consolidated numerous data centres into two global data centres to reduce the group infrastructure in the region.
My key achievements included:
 Implementing a global VoIP unified communications system for 1000 users and guiding, mentoring and supporting the team of eight staff at four different sites
 Introducing outsourced IT solutions for operations such as Mimecast Email security and daily management of the Oracle EBS outsourcing delivery, as well as continuous improvement programmes for IT infrastructure
 Utilising shop floor data capture hardware and networking to bolster infrastructure implementation supporting Oracle ERP systems and segmented IT services for operations sold during disposal of non-core activities
 Ensuring legislative compliance and audit standards in all systems

Group IT Infrastructure Manager

In this role I provided daily technical support for all the Group’s European operations. I was accountable for Project Management of all IT Infrastructure projects including:
 Global Cisco VoIP rollout
 Annual Desktop refreshes
 Building out two global data centres
 Migrating WAN infrastructure
 Supporting Oracle ERP rollout
 Implementing Hyper-V Globally, and
 Many others

Senior IT Systems Administrator

AstraZeneca

Working for this world leader in pharmaceutical development and manufacturing, I served on a team providing IT security and Email access to 70,000 customers world-wide. I was also responsible for the migration of NT4.0 architecture to Windows 2000, management of response and SLA’s to user support requests and the provision of technical support to other internal functions.

Email & IT Security Specialist

Shell

Working for ExPro - a function within the Shell Oil Group’s IT division that supported the exploration and deep sea oil rig staff - I was part of the Helpdesk team that provided first line IT support to more than 13,000 staff worldwide. This support also included management of the implementation and integration to legacy systems of Windows 2000 and providing liaison with 2nd line support teams to ensure that SLA’s, response and fix times were met.

IT Helpdesk Analyst

Hi! I'm Patrick, an IT Strategist and Leader with over 20 years of expertise across diverse industries in the UK, Europe, US and extensive parts of APAC.

My journey in IT is awash with a rich tapestry of experiences. Beginning in Cheshire's restaurant kitchens, I've since swapped aprons for algorithms and infrastructure, leading technical transformations at several  MNCs. My 2009 move to Singapore wasn’t just a new pin on the map; it represented a myriad of transformative challenges and growth opportunities.

Beyond technology, my ethos revolves around a marriage of technicality with genuine business impact. Every strategy I implement is meticulously crafted to not only elevate user satisfaction but also support the delivery of organisational aspirations and goals. My succinct communication style, devoid of unnecessary embellishments, ensures that messages are impactful and direct, and builds trust at all levels.

One passion sits fervently at the heart of my professional pursuits: sustainability. Living by the beach, I often find solace in its tranquillity. Yet, it perturbs me to witness the remnants of human indifference littering our shores. With my children as my motivation, I’ve been an active advocate for environmental responsibility, often taking the initiative to clear plastics from our local beachfront. Ensuring a sustainable future isn’t just a wish, it’s a commitment; one I wish to intertwine with my career objectives. Whether it's volunteering in sustainability ventures or teaching my children about the environment, I aspire for a world where technology and eco-consciousness converge harmoniously.

I've also embraced a continuous learning philosophy, from dabbling in new programming languages to graphic design, proving that every day presents a unique opportunity. I also take great satisfaction in learning from my team and peers as experts in their respective fields.

I am a visionary, strategic, and results-driven leader looking for a new opportunity to express my passion and build new leaders. Let's connect and collaborate to make our world a bit better.

Patrick Kittle

Dan Gericke

ShiftControl

ShiftControl offers a seamless platform for purchasing, configuring, and securing all your SaaS services in one spot, tailored for small businesses and startups. Effortlessly manage users, invoices, and security. Get ready to experience SaaS management like never before.

Co-Founder

DNG Partners

DNG Partners is a specialized consulting firm offering CXO Advisory, Software, and Cybersecurity Strategy Development to modern businesses, with a mission to empower startups and ambitious enterprises.
https://www.dng-partners.com

Director

As the Chief Technology Officer at ExpressVPN and the Kape Privacy Division, I had the pleasure of leading the technology operations and innovations for not only ExpressVPN, a premier VPN brand with an amazing success story, but also three other prominent VPN brands that were part of the group. My role was central in building and scaling engineering and operations teams, driving us towards our mission to create secure and accessible internet experiences for 7+ million users worldwide.

Key Achievements/Tasks:
- Managed and provided leadership to over 300 engineers, delivering excellence across various domains, and contributing to US$600m+ in annualized revenue with double-digit YoY growth.
- Designed and executed a forward-thinking technology strategy, pioneering deep-tech integrations, OS layer advancements, and highly-auditable systems that positioned ExpressVPN as a leader in the industry.
- Cultivated a thriving engineering culture that empowered innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.

My time at ExpressVPN allowed me to merge my passion for cybersecurity and technology with an unwavering commitment to creating products that resonate with consumers on a global scale.

Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

DarkMatter & Connection Systems

As Vice President of Cyber Security Advisory, I spearheaded multiple departments, focusing on modernizing IT systems and providing unique security and innovation insights. My role was essential in the transformation of traditional systems into future-ready, scalable, and more secure infrastructures.

Key Achievements/Tasks:
- Led a significant IT modernization effort, revitalizing a 10+ year old system, positioning the organization at the forefront of cyber security awareness.
- Executed leadership and oversight of cyber security and intelligence software development, translating complex cyber intelligence operations into actionable strategies.
- Advised senior government officials on the optimal allocation of a large US$330M+ budget, directing funds towards crucial products, solutions, and third-party contracts to meet mission requirements.
- My experience at DarkMatter allowed me to blend technical proficiency with executive leadership, forging paths in security and innovation without compromising core values or mission alignment. 

Leveraging my understanding of both offensive and defensive cyber strategies, I was able to provide unparalleled insights that transcended conventional thinking in the cybersecurity realm.

Vice President, Cyber Security Advisory

CyberPoint International

Cyber Security Expert/Head of Multiple Departments

URS Corporation

Senior Manager Network Engineering

Lockheed Martin

Systems Engineer Staff

Operations & Sustainment Manager

Senior Network Engineer

Ocean Systems Engineering Corporation

Network Engineer 3

USMC

Computer System Specialist

I’ve spent the past two decades immersed in cyber security, scaling startups, and building innovative tech solutions. As the former CTO of ExpressVPN, I helped shape the company from its early days into an industry leader, ultimately driving it to a US$1 billion exit. But beyond the business milestones, what I’m most proud of is fostering engineering cultures built on trust, collaboration, and continuous learning—where teams not only deliver cutting-edge products but also celebrate their wins along the way.

Now, as the Co-Founder of ShiftControl, I’m channeling my experience in cyber security, operations, and product development into solving a critical problem: how small businesses manage IT, security, and productivity tools. ShiftControl is all about making it easier for businesses to take control of their tech infrastructure without needing an enterprise-sized IT team. I believe small businesses are the backbone of the economy, and they deserve the same level of security and efficiency that big corporations take for granted.

My career has taken me from managing complex defense operations to leading large international teams and driving consumer-focused tech innovation. Each step has reinforced my passion for breaking new ground—whether in cyber security, SaaS management, or scaling high-growth startups.

I also enjoy sharing what I’ve learned. I speak at conferences, contribute to industry discussions, and always look for ways to connect with others who are just as obsessed with tech, security, and entrepreneurship as I am. Based in Singapore, my mission remains the same: push technological boundaries and create solutions that make a real impact.

Nice touch from Aspire! 
ShiftControl is 2 years old today, it’s been quite a ride! We’ve made it past the 18 month startup death spiral and we’ve got traction, product fit, and a great roadmap! Stay tuned!

Pro tip for Aspire, add social sharing buttons to these emails!

Here we go again...
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JumpCloud is inaccessible.
I'm guessing many more...

🚨 When a cyber incident happens, every minute counts. Incident response is the process of detecting, containing, and recovering from a security breach. It’s about being ready before something goes wrong — not scrambling after.

🧯 ShiftControl customers get a free subscription to Blackpanda IR-1 incident response. So if the worst case happens and you do get hacked, you’ll have a trusted team ready to help contain the threat and guide you through remediation.

#CyberSecurity #IncidentResponse #BreachResponse #RiskManagement #ShiftControl

This is one of the reasons ShiftControl exists. We make sure offboarded employees are actually offboarded from critical systems!  

How is your employee identity hygiene??

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🚩 If your SaaS tools aren’t keeping up, it may be time to rethink your provider. Here are five key red flags:
🔹 Frequent downtime or sluggish performance
🔹 Features missing that match your current growth
🔹 Customer support that leaves you in limbo
🔹 Security or compliance gaps you feel uneasy about
🔹 The market has moved on—better, cheaper, more powerful alternatives exist

#SaaSManagement #TechStack #SoftwareProviders #DigitalTransformation #ITStrategy

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👥 Managing groups in Google Workspace can quickly become a tangle of confusing permissions, nested memberships and shadow access if it isn’t handled properly. Groups are supposed to simplify access and collaboration—yet many teams end up spending too much time just keeping them straight.

🔧 We make it much easier. ShiftControl supports intuitive, dynamic group handling so you get:
🔹 Cleanly organised groups (by department, role or access level)
🔹 Automated membership based on user attributes like title, team or location
🔹 Visibility into who’s in which group and what they can access—reducing risk and speedy mis-assignments

#GoogleWorkspace #AccessControl #GroupManagement #SaaSManagement #ShiftControl

🔑 Privileged Access Management (PAM) is all about safeguarding the “keys to the kingdom” in your organisation—the accounts and identities that hold elevated permissions and can make big changes. Without strong PAM, these powerful accounts become prime targets for attackers.

🔧 ShiftControl supports PAM by synchronising users and groups into your SaaS services. That gives you the building blocks to:
🛡️ Use role-based access control (RBAC) with precision
👥 Manage privileged access so the right people get the right rights, at the right time
📋 Reduce risk by orchestrating how identities map to roles across your stack

#CyberSecurity #PAM #AccessControl #IdentityManagement #ShiftControl

💡 SaaS license optimization isn’t a once-a-year cleanup—it’s a daily discipline. You need to:
🔍 Audit software usage regularly—find idle seats and abandoned tools
🔧 Define digital personas by role and automate license assignments accordingly
📈 Monitor continuously—flag unused licences, adapt to changes in teams and tools

✅ If you’re looking to gain control of your SaaS spend, reduce waste and simplify licence management—check out ShiftControl.

#SaaSManagement #LicenseOptimization #CostControl #SaaSSpend #ITOperations

🧩 Managed Service Providers (MSPs) can be a great fit for companies running Microsoft environments. They’re often built around managing Microsoft 365, Azure, and related ecosystems.

But for Google Workspace shops, they’re rarely fit for purpose. Many MSPs will try to migrate customers to Microsoft rather than support Google Workspace natively — which means more friction, not less.

If your business runs on a modern, SaaS-first stack, you’ll want partners that actually meet you where you are, not where they’d rather take you.

#MSP #SaaSManagement #GoogleWorkspace #ITStrategy #BusinessOperations

✉️ DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) is one of the most important tools in keeping email trustworthy. It adds a digital signature to every outgoing message so the recipient’s server can verify that the email really came from your domain and wasn’t tampered with on the way.

💡 Why it matters:
🔹 Helps prevent attackers from spoofing your domain
🔹 Improves deliverability by signaling authenticity to mail providers
🔹 Builds trust with customers and partners who rely on your messages

#EmailSecurity #DKIM #CyberSecurity #Authentication #PhishingPrevention

📦 Just because your data lives in the cloud doesn’t mean you’re covered. Many SaaS vendors focus on platform uptime—not restoring your deleted items, corrupted files or ransomware-hit libraries.
🔍 That’s why backing up your SaaS apps (Google Workspace, Xero, etc.) is essential:
🧩 Keep versions of critical documents and accounts so you can recover fast
⚠️ Protect against human error, malicious deletion or service glitches
📉 Reduce downtime and help safeguard your reputation

🔧 On the ops side, our team built a platform that connects to your SaaS stack and ensures backups and restores are part of your defence—not an afterthought.

#SaaSSecurity #DataProtection #BackupAndRecovery #CloudStrategy #ShiftControl

Anyone that is surprised Cloudflare uses Lua and it was the cause of yesterday’s outage obviously has never done a lot of work with nginx….

I love it when they ask the tough questions in r/USMC 😜😵‍💫🤣

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The Battle

Patrick Kittle

Dan Gericke

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The Battle

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Performance Score.css-goub6s{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);font-weight:500;color:var(--chakra-colors-gray-600);display:block;margin-top:var(--chakra-space-1);}Dan Gericke's LinkedIn Performance

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