A Staff Profile in Tech: Parmjit Samplay

Parmjit Samplay works with SDL Surveying as the acting Head of Network Security and Infrastructure

What do you do?

I’m responsible for managing Network Infrastructure and IT Support Services teams. My role is to ensure our businesses IT operational environments and our data is readily available whilst maintaining robust and effective security controls to prevent unauthorised access.

The role also extends into a support services function, with a responsibility of ensuring our customer are served professionally and their IT issues are handled expertly with quality service delivery and resolution output.

Another responsibility of the role involves the strategic planning of technology and infrastructure to enable our organisation to be more efficient, productive, and move forward.

What is it that that makes you love what you do?

I love almost everything I do as part of my role here. I love managing a team that provides the “road-works and transport channels” so that we can collaborate, share, and process in secure environments.

I love that fact there is an executive-level interest in the IT platforms, network security and end-user support we have in place. This is evident in the substantial amount of investment in the latest technology and security appliances that have been deployed within our IT network boundaries and operational environments.

What do you think makes a good IT leader?

In my opinion, a good IT Leader is one who leads by an example! The ones who explore new processes and are not deterred by a rapid change.

A good IT leader should never be satisfied with the systems, security, collaboration methods, appliances and working processes that are currently in place.  A good leader would continuously look at making improvements to benefit the business flow. An IT leader should also be aware of the business strategy and risks in order to deploy and manage effective security controls proficiently.

What is the one piece of tech software we use that you would encourage other businesses to use?

Over the last 12 to 18 months, we have successfully deployed a number of security systems and tools.  The one that stands out for me the most is Darktrace Immune System and Antigena Response.

Deployment of DarkTrace has added another dimension to our network security posture.  This state of Art technology and security tool, used by so many large data driven firms, has definitely helped us move our security grading to A+. With Darktrace operational in our environment means we are now more secure, more aware, and more pro-active when it comes to vulnerability management and incident response. This is a tool I would recommend and encourage other business to have as part of their network and data security framework.

What do you see as the next big tech move in our industry?

As we all know IT is one of the biggest and fastest moving industries when it comes to rapid changes to systems and tech offerings. Vendors all over the world are trying to improve and develop new tech to circumvent newly generated vulnerabilities and weaknesses in existing systems. So, it’s important to have systems that are more scalable and can adapt to the generation of new vulnerabilities while also being able to support the organic growth of the business.

Our next big tech would be the use of multi-channel communication and information sharing tools and exploration of omni-channel strategy, which will allow us to deliver a unified customer experience and service journey.