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CHRISTOPHER BALALA
Lilongwe
Work Preference
Summary
Results-driven IT Professional with extensive experience in network administration, systems support, and ICT infrastructure management. Proven ability to work independently, support teams, and train users while maintaining high service standards. Highly adaptable, reliable, and capable of working effectively under pressure. Strong interest in continuous learning and research within fast-paced technical environments.
Overview
1
1
Certification
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
IT Support Specialist (On-Call)
Farmers Union of Malawi
- Installed and configured computer hardware, software, networks, printers, and scanners.
- Monitored and maintained IT systems and network performance.
- Responded promptly to technical issues and service requests.
- Provided technical support both on-site and remotely.
- Set up and manage user accounts and access rights.
- Repaired, replaced, and tested ICT equipment.
- Assisted with training of junior staff when required.
ICT Support Specialist
Malawi Water Shed Project (MWASIP/WORLD BANK)
01.2021 - Current
- Managed domain services, mail servers, and accounting systems.
- Configured and supported email systems on desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
- Provided ICT support to district offices and project staff.
- Ensured availability of relevant software, services, and ICT equipment.
- Maintained LAN infrastructure (switches, routers, printers, cabling) and monitored performance.
- Managed user accounts, permissions, backups, and data restoration.
- Ensured reliable internet access, official email services, and updated web content.
IT Support Specialist
Malawi Floods Emergency Recovery Project (MFERP/MDRRP/WORLD BANK)
01.2015 - 01.2019
- Managed domain services, mail servers, and accounting systems.
- Configured and supported email systems on desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
- Provided ICT support to district offices and project staff.
- Ensured availability of relevant software, services, and ICT equipment.
- Maintained LAN infrastructure (switches, routers, printers, cabling) and monitored performance.
- Managed user accounts, permissions, backups, and data restoration.
- Ensured reliable internet access, official email services, and updated web content.
IT Help Desk / Field Engineer
Burco Electronics Ltd (ISP)
12.2007 - 12.2012
- Installed and maintained Wide Area Networks (WAN) and Local Area Networks (LAN).
- Designed, built, and supported wired and wireless network infrastructure.
- Configured routers, VPNs, WiMAX base stations, and CPE devices.
- Installed and managed email systems including backup solutions.
- Provided online and on-site technical support to clients.
- Performed computer hardware and software repairs (desktops and laptops).
- Implemented network sharing solutions for printers, copiers, and storage devices.
- Conducted virus protection, scanning, and system security checks.
- Core Responsibilities:
- Technical Support (1st/2nd Line): Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, network, and peripheral issues for staff.
- Incident Management: Record, track, and close user requests and incidents using ITIL-based ticketing software.
- User Onboarding/Offboarding: Set up new workstations, configure computers, and manage user accounts (Active Directory, Email).
- Asset Management: Maintain inventory of IT assets, including computers, software licenses, and mobile devices.
- Hardware/Software Maintenance: Install, upgrade, and configure software and hardware, including printers and VOIP systems.
- Documentation: Create and maintain IT documentation, user guides, and update the knowledge base.
- Specific Duties
- Remote Support: Provide remote assistance to staff, particularly for hybrid or remote working environments.
- Vendor Liaison: Contact vendors for repairs, warranties, and support.
- Security Compliance: Ensure systems are secure, data is backed up, and anti-virus software is up to date.
- Training: Provide basic training to users on new software or hardware tools.
Education
International Diploma - Computer Engineering
New Horizons
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) - undefined
Lilongwe Technical College
Bachelor Of Management Information Systems - undefined
Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) - undefined
Nkhata Bay Secondary School
01-2005
Skills
- Server & Systems Support
- Windows Server 2019, 2022 – 2025
- Active Directory
- Azure
- Exchange Server
- Microsoft Office 365
- Networking
- Routers, Switches, Access Points, Firewalls
- DNS, DHCP, TCP/IP
- VPN Configuration
- Productivity & Collaboration
- Microsoft Office (2019, 2024, 365)
- Microsoft Teams and Microsoft SharePoint
- Zoom And Google meets
- Webex
Certification
- TOMPRO Accounting Software
- Server installation and configuration
- Network deployment to client workstations
- User creation and management
- Troubleshooting and system support
- Data backup and recovery
- Sage Line 50
- Installation and configuration (Server & Clients)
- Network setup and troubleshooting
- User management
- Data backup and maintenance
Timeline
ICT Support Specialist
Malawi Water Shed Project (MWASIP/WORLD BANK)
01.2021 - Current
IT Support Specialist
Malawi Floods Emergency Recovery Project (MFERP/MDRRP/WORLD BANK)
01.2015 - 01.2019
IT Help Desk / Field Engineer
Burco Electronics Ltd (ISP)
12.2007 - 12.2012
Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) - undefined
Nkhata Bay Secondary School
Bachelor Of Management Information Systems - undefined
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) - undefined
Lilongwe Technical College
International Diploma - Computer Engineering
New Horizons
IT Support Specialist (On-Call)
Farmers Union of Malawi