Mark Austin
Exmouth,Devon
Summary
Accomplished IT professional with extensive expertise in infrastructure design and management, network and system architecture, and database administration across both production and development environments. Proficient in Microsoft SQL Server (6.5 to 2019, including AWS RDS) and Oracle DBA up to 11G, with a strong command of Windows and UNIX server operating systems. Demonstrated success in implementing AWS architecture and services such as Lambda, EC2, RDS, VPC, Backup, CloudWatch, and CloudFormation. Skilled in Infrastructure as Code using Octopus and adept at Python programming (2.7 – 3.8) alongside PowerShell scripting (3-5). Experienced in data warehousing and ETL systems using SSIS, complemented by Agile and Waterfall project management methodologies. Committed to leveraging technical acumen to drive innovative solutions within dynamic IT environments while pursuing continuous professional growth. Offering strong foundation in engineering principles with keen eye for problem-solving and process improvement. Knowledgeable about predictive maintenance and data analysis with collaborative and results-focused approach. Ready to use and develop analytical thinking, technical acumen, and teamwork in any engineering role.
Overview
38
38
years of professional experience
2025
2025
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Data Reliability Engineer
Direct Line Group Limited
02.2022 - 12.2025
- Led engineering migration from supplier-hosted insurance platform to in-house AWS solution.
- Migrated 5TB SQL Server database and associated applications using lift-and-shift and cloud-first strategies.
- Executed database migrations from 2012 to 2019, transitioning into RDS environments.
- Served as DevOps lead for SQL Server, Oracle, and PostgreSQL database administration in EC2 and RDS.
- Configured comprehensive monitoring for all databases using AppDynamics, integrating with ServiceNow.
- Assumed role of Lead DRE for Home, Travel, and Motability platforms.
- Developed reliability models, leading to better failure prediction and prevention.
- Inspected and troubleshot product and production discrepancies.
Senior Infrastructure DBA
LumiraDX Care Solutions Ltd
Camborne, Cornwall
10.2015 - 02.2022
- Provided DBA expertise for real-time anti-coagulation service nationwide.
- Designed and implemented audit archiving solution using ELK stack.
- Conducted peer reviews, database design, and optimisation tasks.
- Managed development, testing, and production infrastructure migration to hosted VM environment.
- Oversaw Windows administration, monitoring, and maintenance tasks, liaising with hosting provider.
- Transitioned systems to open-source technologies, focusing on Linux stack.
- Delivered first and second level out-of-hours support coverage.
- Migrated SQL Server/Windows .NET environment to AWS in 2018 using IaaS/IaaC principles.
Senior SQL Server Developer/DBA (Contractor)
First DataBank
Exeter, Devon
07.2015 - 10.2016
- Filled skills gap left by departing staff member through DBA and development expertise.
- Administered MultiLex and OptimiseRX products, delivering drug information to primary care settings.
- Enabled CCGs to optimise prescription cost savings through accurate data feeds.
- Designed and built a data warehouse using live data for instant reporting on prescribing practices.
- Designed and implemented database architecture to optimise performance and reliability.
Senior SQL Developer (Contractor)
Barclays Technology Centre
Knutsford, Cheshire
03.2015 - 07.2015
- Spearheaded development of large-scale data ingress system to detect viruses and fraud across connected devices.
- Processed millions of data points daily, creating dynamic star schema for efficient analysis.
- Delivered comprehensive reporting functionality and integrated system with third-party API.
- Optimised database performance through effective indexing and query tuning techniques.
Data Engineer/DBA (Contractor)
St Helens and Knowsley NHS Trust
St Helens, Merseyside
02.2014 - 03.2015
- Assumed role as informatics engineer and DBA, overseeing SQL Server estate.
- Upgraded and merged systems to enhance data management efficiency.
- Led major project to consolidate data from multiple managed trust systems.
- Developed complex data validation and assessment system for improved accuracy.
Data Engineer/DBA
Speedy Hire PLC
Newton le Willows, Merseyside
04.2007 - 01.2014
- Facilitated AX reporting projects using SSRS and BI as a contractor at Speedy Hire.
- Integrated intranet systems and constructed a large SSIS data migration system.
- Investigated deployment of SQL Server 2012 to enhance DW and AX2012 implementation.
- Led technical consultancy and project management for externally developed systems, including Mobile Engineer solutions.
- Implemented EPod system to deliver timely data via SSIS to remote cabins, covering asset location and hire details.
- Developed data warehouse solutions with SSAS and BO, ensuring compatibility with existing DW rules.
- Built Cubes and created MDX, LINQ, and DMX queries to generate reports from datasets.
- Served as technical lead for AX2012 data migration, employing AFI, SSIS, and custom scripts.
ICT Development and Data Manager
Belvedere School
Liverpool
08.2006 - 04.2007
- Managed team of three in-house employees and various consultants during building and installation phases.
- Administered daily operations while providing technical expertise in SQL Server 2005 and Microsoft Office.
- Developed functional specifications for new Academy ICT system and replacement financial system.
- Executed upgrades to wireless environments and migrated Exchange 6.5 to 2003.
- Completed active directory migration to new domain, ensuring seamless transition.
- Generated SQL Server reports across all school systems, forming data repository for new MIS system.
- Implemented shared reporting system using SIMS profiles and Assessment Manager, including staff training.
- Established Total Cost of Ownership budget system within IT, liaising with external suppliers and consultants.
ICT Teacher
King's Grove School
, Cheshire
06.2005 - 08.2006
- Employed full-time as a teacher at King's Grove School following successful tenure as an associate teacher.
- Delivered ICT curriculum for all ages, covering KS3 and KS4 national standards, including ECDL.
- Taught Science to lower ability classes at KS3 and KS4, with specialisation in Physics at KS4.
- Developed engaging ICT lesson plans that catered to diverse learning styles.
- Utilised various educational technologies to promote interactive learning experiences.
Associate Teacher
Brine Leas School
Nantwich, Cheshire
01.2005 - 05.2005
- Delivered ICT curriculum for KS3, KS4, and KS5, emphasising student engagement.
- Prepared classrooms for lessons by ensuring availability of essential resources.
- Developed lesson plans customised to meet diverse learning needs and abilities.
Database Specialist
Allied Healthcare Ltd
Stone, Staffordshire
12.2002 - 04.2005
- Oversaw all facets of major Oracle Apps implementation, including HR, PL, SL, invoicing, and project management.
Associate Teacher
King's Grove School
Crewe, Cheshire
09.2004 - 12.2004
- Following divorce took a sabbatical to train as a teacher.
SQL Server and Oracle Database Specialist
Royal and Sun Alliance
Castletown, Isle of Man
02.2002 - 11.2002
- Troubleshot and resolved database issues to minimise downtime and improve user experience.
- Evaluated and recommended new technologies to enhance database capabilities and performance.
Senior Oracle DBA (Contractor)
Singlepoint Solutions
Chesterton, Stoke on Trent
03.2001 - 02.2002
- Administered Oracle databases ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
- Designed and optimised database structures to enhance data retrieval efficiency.
- Mentored junior DBAs in best practices and advanced database management techniques.
- Developed backup and recovery strategies to protect data integrity during failures.
Senior SQL Consultant (Contractor)
Edison Mission Energy
Ewloe, Wales
08.2000 - 03.2001
- Built and delivered a complete platform to enable Ederson to trade it's hydro and coal powered generation on the UKPX and deliver to the national grid
- Developed complex SQL queries to extract, manipulate, and analyse data for reporting purposes.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify data requirements and streamline data processes.
- Designed and implemented database structures to optimise performance and improve data accessibility.
SQL Replication Consultant (Contractor)
IBM
Manchester
01.2000 - 08.2000
- Developed comprehensive SQL replication strategies to ensure seamless data synchronisation across distributed systems.
- Implemented advanced troubleshooting techniques for SQL replication issues, enhancing overall system reliability.
- Conducted in-depth assessments of existing SQL replication configurations to identify areas for improvement.
- Delivered training sessions to junior staff on SQL replication best practices and efficient database management.
Oracle Specialist (Contractor)
AXA Insurance
Lancaster, Lancashire
09.1999 - 12.1999
- Y2K remediation on Oracle Systems (PLSQL and SQL Forms)
Senior Database Administrator (Contractor)
KPMG Healthcare Systems
05.1999 - 09.1999
SQL Replication Consultant (Contractor)
Donaldson, Lufkin and Jenrette
London
04.1999 - 04.1999
- Developed comprehensive SQL replication strategies to enhance data integrity across multiple platforms.
- Implemented advanced troubleshooting techniques to resolve complex replication issues promptly.
- Delivered training sessions to staff on best practices for SQL replication and data management.
Senior SQL Server DBA (Contractor)
Camelot Group PLC
Watford
07.1998 - 04.1999
- Watford
Senior SQL DBA
SBC Warburg Dillon Reed
London
05.1997 - 06.1998
- London
DBA/Database Developer(Contractor)
NatWest Bank
London
12.1996 - 05.1997
- London
Sybase DBA (Contractor)
West Merchant Bank
London
07.1996 - 12.1996
- London
Oracle DBA (Contractor)
British Telecom
Milton Keynes/Ipswich
02.1996 - 07.1996
- Milton Keynes/Ipswich
Unify and Oracle DBA (Contractor)
3i PLC
Birmingham
05.1993 - 01.1996
- Birmingham
Guest Lecturer (Part Time)
Staffordshire University
Stafford
04.1993 - 01.1994
- Stafford
Pre and Post Sales Engineer
Unify Corporation
Egham
05.1990 - 04.1993
- Egham
Data Engineer (Student Placement)
West Midlands Health Authority
05.1988 - 10.1989
Education
Certification - AWS
QA Training
Remote08.2019
PGCE - ICT
Keele University
Keele, Staffordshire 09.2004 - 05.2005
Bachelor of Science - Computer Science and Mathematics
Staffordshire University
Stafford 09.1986 - 05.1990
Skills
- Infrastructure design and management
- Network and system architecture
- Microsoft SQL Server (65 to 2019, including AWS RDS)
- Oracle DBA expertise (up to 11G)
- Windows and UNIX server operating systems
- Database administration (production and development)
- Data warehousing and ETL systems (SSIS)
- AWS architecture and implementation
- AWS services (Lambda, EC2, RDS, VPC, Backup, CloudWatch, CloudFormation)
- Infrastructure as Code with Octopus
- Python programming (27 – 38) and PowerShell (3-5)
- Agile and Waterfall project management
INTERESTS AND HOBBIES
Until recently I was a ChildLine Counsellor (almost 30 years) having extensive training in child protection and associated law., Serving and served as a school governor as a parent and teacher, and most recently as Governor tasked with child protection., I enjoy hiking, swimming, kayaking and camping where time permits, as well as archery being a member of a couple of local clubs.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Full Clean Driving License, Car Owner
Timeline
Data Reliability Engineer
Direct Line Group Limited
02.2022 - 12.2025
Senior Infrastructure DBA
LumiraDX Care Solutions Ltd
10.2015 - 02.2022
Senior SQL Server Developer/DBA (Contractor)
First DataBank
07.2015 - 10.2016
Senior SQL Developer (Contractor)
Barclays Technology Centre
03.2015 - 07.2015
Data Engineer/DBA (Contractor)
St Helens and Knowsley NHS Trust
02.2014 - 03.2015
Data Engineer/DBA
Speedy Hire PLC
04.2007 - 01.2014
ICT Development and Data Manager
Belvedere School
08.2006 - 04.2007
ICT Teacher
King's Grove School
06.2005 - 08.2006
Associate Teacher
Brine Leas School
01.2005 - 05.2005
PGCE - ICT
Keele University
09.2004 - 05.2005
Associate Teacher
King's Grove School
09.2004 - 12.2004
Database Specialist
Allied Healthcare Ltd
12.2002 - 04.2005
SQL Server and Oracle Database Specialist
Royal and Sun Alliance
02.2002 - 11.2002
Senior Oracle DBA (Contractor)
Singlepoint Solutions
03.2001 - 02.2002
Senior SQL Consultant (Contractor)
Edison Mission Energy
08.2000 - 03.2001
SQL Replication Consultant (Contractor)
IBM
01.2000 - 08.2000
Oracle Specialist (Contractor)
AXA Insurance
09.1999 - 12.1999
Senior Database Administrator (Contractor)
KPMG Healthcare Systems
05.1999 - 09.1999
SQL Replication Consultant (Contractor)
Donaldson, Lufkin and Jenrette
04.1999 - 04.1999
Senior SQL Server DBA (Contractor)
Camelot Group PLC
07.1998 - 04.1999
Senior SQL DBA
SBC Warburg Dillon Reed
05.1997 - 06.1998
DBA/Database Developer(Contractor)
NatWest Bank
12.1996 - 05.1997
Sybase DBA (Contractor)
West Merchant Bank
07.1996 - 12.1996
Oracle DBA (Contractor)
British Telecom
02.1996 - 07.1996
Unify and Oracle DBA (Contractor)
3i PLC
05.1993 - 01.1996
Guest Lecturer (Part Time)
Staffordshire University
04.1993 - 01.1994
Pre and Post Sales Engineer
Unify Corporation
05.1990 - 04.1993
Data Engineer (Student Placement)
West Midlands Health Authority
05.1988 - 10.1989
Bachelor of Science - Computer Science and Mathematics
Staffordshire University
09.1986 - 05.1990
Certification - AWS
QA Training