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Ariston Collander
Principal - Cybersecurity (PCI/SOX Cloud Compliance, Security Policy, Cloud Security) at AT&T
Professional Background
Ariston C. Collander is a seasoned Information Technology (IT) professional with a robust experience spanning over two decades in systems management. His career trajectory reflects a deep commitment to driving business growth and enhancing workflow efficiency in diverse and fast-paced environments. Throughout his journey, Ariston has successfully melded technology strategy development with governance initiatives that elevate organizational compliance and security protocols. As a Principal in Cybersecurity at AT&T, he has demonstrated exceptional skill in leading cloud-based governance projects, ensuring adherence to third-party risk assurance standards, and refining processes to minimize lead times and operational costs.
Ariston’s previous positions at AT&T are a testament to his expertise; having served as Principal of Technology Security, Senior in Technology Security focused on Policy and Cloud Security, and Senior in Technology Security overseeing Cloud Governance, he possesses a wealth of knowledge in the realm of cybersecurity and technology risk management. His ability to traverse the intricacies of technology and business positions him uniquely to enhance vendor and consultant relationships while aligning business objectives with technological solutions. With experience as a GRC Analyst at DIRECTV, his proficiency in governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) has been further cultivated, making him an invaluable asset in any organization looking to strengthen its security and operational frameworks.
Education and Achievements
Ariston's educational foundation complements his extensive professional experience. He pursued a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree both at the University of Phoenix, where he honed his skills in Information Technology and Information Systems. His commitment to understanding human behavior and organizational dynamics is evidenced by his achievement of a Generalist Certificate from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. This unique combination of IT knowledge and insights from industrial-organizational psychology enables Ariston to bridge the gap between technical requirements and business needs effectively.
Beyond his formal education, Ariston has specialized in several key areas. His expertise in developing security policies designed to safeguard data in the cloud underscores his commitment to cybersecurity. He has navigated complexities such as PCI and SSAE16 controls, ensuring compliance during client security audits, which showcases his adeptness in adhering to regulatory requirements and risk management strategies. Additionally, his formal training in familiar psychometric assessments like MBTI and DiSC speaks to his profound understanding of organizational behavior, enhancing his leadership and developmental capacities.
Key Specialties and Accomplishments
Ariston's skill set includes:
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Technology Strategy Development: Strategically guiding organizations in fostering workflow improvements, ensuring that technology aligns with business goals. His forward-thinking approach keeps organizations primed for future growth for decades to come.
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Cloud Governance: Leading initiatives for cloud-based governance, quality assurance in third-party relations, and compliance enhancement demonstrates his commitment to creating robust frameworks that promote secure and efficient operational practices.
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Process Improvement: His implementation of governance and compliance process improvements has significantly reduced lead times and operational costs for teams he has led.
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Security Policy Development: Ariston has developed comprehensive security policies that guard against data vulnerabilities, particularly in cloud environments, showcasing his ability to merge technology and risk management seamlessly.
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Change Management Processes: By establishing change management processes, he has facilitated tracking and documentation for production changes, promoting transparency and accountability across departments.
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Organizational Behavior and Leadership: Combined with a solid technical foundation, his knowledge of organizational behavior enables Ariston to effectively lead teams and cultivate a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.
Through his roles, Ariston has been instrumental in enhancing vendor relationships and developing meaningful partnerships that drive business success. His focus remains on not just meeting but exceeding organizational expectations through innovative solutions that reflect a deep understanding of both technological advancements and market dynamics.
Overall, Ariston C. Collander stands out in the IT field as a knowledgeable and highly skilled professional who possesses a rare blend of technical and psychological understanding, making him exceptionally equipped to tackle challenges that lie at the intersection of technology and business. He is always looking forward, focusing on enhancing workflows and ensuring a secure, compliant operational landscape. His professional journey is a testament to his commitment to excellence and his passion for utilizing technology as a catalyst for transformational change within organizations.
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