Doug Kozar

Amherst, NY – Manager of the web operations unit for the effective and efficient utilization of web technologies and services. Day-to-day responsibility for managing and maintaining over 70 campus websites in our portfolio. Ensure servers and web resources are up-to-date and secured against malware threats and attacks. Monitor and control our department's work order system to assign tasks to appropriate staff members. Ensure Google Analytics is installed on all our websites and web pages, produce ad-hoc reports & analyses upon request, and conduct end-user training. Schedule work for and supervise up to 4 Student Assistants and Graduate Assistants.

Key Achievements:

• Installed, manage and maintain our unit's Project Management software and Help Desk ticketing system - JIRA/Confluence/JIRA Service Desk.
• Technical member of the project team to upgrade our web portfolio of sites to WCAG 2.0 compliance.
• Helped formalize departmental standards for policies, procedures and quality assurance practices for the development, management and ongoing maintenance of websites and web applications.
• Documented internal controls for the Academic Affairs Marketing & Communications unit as part of the overall University initiative.
• Responsible for interviewing, hiring, directing and managing 3 Student Assistants and 1 Graduate Assistant.

Amherst, NY – Technical member of the web team directly responsible for the design, development, integration and management of selected university websites and web applications. Day-to-day responsibility for managing and maintaining over 70 campus websites in our portfolio. Monitor and control our department's work order system to assign tasks to appropriate staff members. Ensure Google Analytics is installed on all our websites and web pages, produce ad-hoc reports & analyses upon request, and conduct end-user training. Schedule work for and supervise up to 4 Student Assistants and Graduate Assistants.

Key Achievements:

• Implemented Google Tag Manager across our entire portfolio. Technical member of pilot team representing Admissions and Academic Affairs to rollout GTM and Google Analytics across the campus's portfolio of sites.
• Worked with the development team on the launch of the UB Curriculum website into UB's new CMS (Adobe Experience Manager).
• Supported the upgrade testing for selected units in Academic Affairs in the UBCMS in AEM version 6.
• Designed and developed a simple public content syndication service of tuition data and cost of attendance data using MySQL and JSON for web page embedding. The service grants content owners with authorship rights and ensures that authoritative data is delivered accurately & consistently across the spectrum of campus-wide websites that elect to install and utilize the service.
• Designed and developed a custom web application for the Office of the Registrar's department scheduling process. The front-end system is a "smart interactive Q&A" built in Twitter Bootstrap & ValidForm Builder that enables campus department schedulers to submit the proper web form based on selections made in the Q&A session. The department schedulers also have a centralized facility to track and monitor their requests and communicate with the service group. The back-end system is built in osTicket with customized workflow, approval processes, task dispatch & servicing, and threaded dialogue between the service group and the customer.
• Designed and developed a custom web application for academic dismissal appeals in PHP & MySQL. The service facilitates and organizes the student's appeal and the academic advisor's review. It centralizes the appeal petition and supporting documents in an electronic format and eliminates the excessive volume of paper generated, regenerated and circulated across campus in the former process.
• Implemented a customized student calendar syndication service for the Offices of Registrar, Student Accounts, Financial Aid, and Student Advising in WordPress using the Timely All-in-1-Event-Calendar plugin with API feeds to Twitter and the ability to subscribe to calendars for synchronization with handheld devices, Google, Outlook and other iCal calendars. This system allows event owners to centrally post and share events through subscriptions.
• Designed and developed a custom facility request & reservation service for the UB Honors College using Twitter Bootstrap and Google Calendar API v3 service with integration to Microsoft Outlook 2013/Microsoft Exchange. The service streamlines the entire reservation process, provides online checks for room availability, organizes requests and eliminates lost requests and scheduling conflicts that were prevalent in the manual process.
• Designed and developed a custom web application for diploma pick-up scheduling in PHP & MySQL. This system allows graduates to schedule a pickup time for their diploma(s) in an orderly manner that reduces bottlenecks and increases efficiency in preparing for & distributing the hundreds of diplomas being picked up during the pickup window following graduation.
• Implemented a faculty award nomination and private tracking service for the Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Education in PHP & MySQL that enables students, faculty and alumni to nominate faculty members for special recognition. The system gives an award nomination committee the capability to centrally access, review and score all nominations and eliminates the former manual & paper-based processes.Customized and implemented a private intranet service for the VPUE /Academic Affairs Organization of over 250 staff associates utilizing the BuddyPress plugin for WordPress. This service enables efficient & effective dissemination of information across the entire organization and gives the membership the ability to collaborate on current topics of interest and importance.
• Upgraded the Office of Web Services work order system from NetOffice to osTicket. Customized the osTicket open source software to enable better workflow within the service group and also between the service group and the customer. Implemented a customized front-end service that enables customers to easily make requests and track & monitor outstanding service requests. The new system yields tremendous improvement to organization of work requests, provides better threaded dialogue with the customer, and gives management with summary & detailed level reporting.
• Moved our entire portfolio of over 50 standalone WordPress blogging and calendaring installations into WordPress Multi-site, upgraded each site & network plugin to the latest release of WordPress, and continually manage & maintain our WordPress installation. One core installation enables all of our WP sites to stay current with the latest software release while ensuring optimal protection again security threats and vulnerability exposures.
• Planned, coordinated and migrated over 60 websites in our portfolio from a collection of 3 different server platforms and architectures onto a new state-of-the-art virtual hosting server configured with blade storage technology. The new server provides optimal site performance while mitigating risks and exposures in website security.
• Converted the Office of Web Services static & custom built website into Drupal CMS.
• Responsible for interviewing, hiring, directing and managing 3 Student Assistants and 1 Graduate Assistant.

Amherst, NY – Overall responsibility for the management, maintenance and delivery of home office applications on an IBM iSeries, POS operations at 11 retail store locations, local/wide area network technologies & infrastructure, and e-commerce applications.

Key Achievements:

• Designed, developed and implemented an online Gold and Diamond Buying Web application to generate significant impact to the bottom-line in an effort to offset diminishing revenues from the core retail business.
• Implemented Campaign Monitor for email marketing with integration to corporate website and AS/400 customer databases in an effort to reduce print costs and efficiently promote to customers in a timely manner.
• Maintained and enhanced corporate e-commerce websites with FTP integration to AS/400 inventory stock levels and new product postings.
• Produced numerous and complex AS/400 Query analyses, reports and Excel integration for Sr. Management use, Inventory Management use and third-party vendor use.
• Provided 7x17 troubleshooting and support on the internal phone system, corporate LAN, security alarm systems, store-wide VPN network, home office operations, and retail store operations.

East Aurora, NY – Provided project delivery service and support to the commercial group clients. Led and assisted a team of developers, database specialists and systems engineers.

Key Achievements:

• Managed and supported daily publication of the BuffaloNews.com and Buffalo.com systems. Streamlined data feeds from flat files and SQL databases using XML and SQL to ensure integrity and security of client's critical information to and from third-party providers. Troubleshot server issues and FTP communications failures between servers.
• Organized a project to convert and upgrade an application developed in Macromedia Director to Java for the Department of Rehabilitation Science, University at Buffalo.
• Designed and developed an alert notification and subscription system for email and text messaging capabilities for the NFTA.
• Migrated client’s Oracle database to SQL Server 2005 for Niagara Frontier Industry Education Council’s Business & Education Employability Portfolio.
• Organized a database and application review for the International Education Department, University at Buffalo.
• Provided complex analysis and design for SQL 2000/2005 database applications to clients.
• Provide Windows 2003 performance monitoring & tuning for client applications.
• Hands-on design and development of database-driven web applications and proprietary and open source content managed websites.
• Worked directly with clients assisting in site setup, email support, content management, and web application and site maintenance for PHP/HTML sites on Linux/Apache servers and .NET solutions on Windows/IIS servers.

Wheatfield, NY – Provided website and application design, development and support services to clients. Assisted clients in effectively and efficiently utilizing computer technologies.

Key Achievements:

• Built an online database application for the Town of Wheatfield Assessor's Office enabling realtors, insurance agents, attorneys and residents to search and display town residential & commercial property assessment data. Online system includes an automated interface to a proprietary in-house real property system developed by the State of New York.
• Developed content management capabilities and custom web applications in PHP and MySQL for the Town of Wheatfield and other clients.
• Member of the Website Task Force steering committee for the Town of Wheatfield to define plans and goals for eGovernment initiatives.
• Designed, developed, implemented and supported a secure client/server database(MySQL) application for a tour operation company to replace their spreadsheet and paper-based system.
• Implemented e-commerce solutions through Authorize.net and PayPal.
• Installed and maintained numerous client LAN's. LAN platforms include Novell NetWare and Microsoft NT/2000/98se/XP-wireless and cable-connected.
• Provided 24x7 hosting, dial-up internet access, website and email support to all clients. Provided workstation break-fixes and server maintenance and support.

Buffalo, NY – Taught the following courses:

• "Computer Applications"
• "Systems Development Methodology"

Buffalo, NY – Led the Year 2000 readiness engagement at Delaware North Companies encompassing all business computing systems and computerized devices.

Key Achievements:

• Exercised project leadership and day-to-day project management of a corporate-wide initiative for the identification, compliance research, testing & certification, and contingency planning for all desktop PCs and LAN servers, point-of-sale devices, and embedded computerized systems.
• Provided project status reporting and issues identification and resolution status to the client on a daily basis.
• Conducted awareness training sessions to Executive, Senior and Middle Management on the implications and effects of Y2K systems and technologies issues on business operations.
• Responsible for the Project Management Office (PMO) of the Buffalo Branch of Keane.

Franklinville, NY – Hired by this $10 million subsidiary of Servotronics Inc. to provide efficient financial planning and management reporting for the Consumer Products Group (Ontario Knife and Queen Cutlery Companies). Key accountabilities include coordinating, managing and improving the day-to-day accounting and information systems functions. Responsible for implementing improvements in cash management, vendor relationships, departmental policies, and financial reporting and to help lead strategic development and long-range business planning.

Main accomplishments:

• Managed LAN operations, purchased and upgraded PC workstations, installed and configured Anti-Virus and network security software, and performed routine system backups.
• Implemented process and management reporting improvements to the PROMAN manufacturing system (PICK Operating System).
• Automated the financial budget and long-range planning process.
• Implemented control procedures in purchasing and accounts payable.
• Automated payroll processes and streamlined the accounts payable check writing and commission payment systems.
• Conducted a study to upgrade voice and data communications facilities.
• Reduced receivables from 90+ days to 60 days. Worked closely with suppliers to prioritize payables. Made significant improvements to cash flow.

Buffalo, NY – Taught the following courses:

• "Accounting Systems"
• "Computer Concepts"
• "Managerial Accounting"
• "Program Logic & Design"

Buffalo, NY – Joined this $1 billion privately-owned frozen foods manufacturer (with over 30 manufacturing facilities world-wide) to lead systems implementation efforts. Key accountabilities include aligning IS strategies with business goals and leveraging IT for process improvement and competitive advantage. Managed professional and technical staff of 17. Budget; $1.75M operating and $1.5M capital. Platforms – IBM 9672-MVS/ESA, HP 9000-UNIX, and Windows (3x/95/NT). Databases – Oracle 7.x and MS-Access. Systems – Decision Support, Financial, Human Resources, and Research & Development. Network OS – Novell NetWare. Systems – Data Warehousing, MRP-II, financial and payroll.

Major achievements:

• Implemented a financial data warehouse and decision support system, implemented Platinum Accounting system in Mexico and U.K. business units, implemented EasyABC activity-based-costing system at all plant facilities, implemented system enhancements to conform to the requirements of the Nutritional Labeling Education Act (‘93), upgraded Cyborg payroll and Integral accounting systems, and built automated linkage between general ledger and budget system.
• Implemented a structured approach, methodology, and toolset for Project Management and SDLC resulting in improved productivity, teamwork and increased customer satisfaction.
• Directed Novell LAN installations in certain corporate departments which led to significant productivity improvements and electronic sharing of data and information.
• Implemented a data warehouse application (relational and multi-dimensional) and OLAP toolset to perform complex business analyses. Migrating legacy systems to client/server applications.
• Developed a long-range strategic IS plan to migrate to integrated client/server HRIS applications. JTS methods were used to accelerate the selection process.
• Developed a systems vision and strategy in Corporate Finance to (1) redesign and reengineer internal processes, (2) integrate OLTP systems into an ERP model, (3) develop decision support systems, and (4) implement executive information systems.
• Redesigned business systems and processes in Corporate Finance, Internal Audit, Tax, Treasury, Human Resources, Research & Development, International Operations, Public Relations, and Rich Entertainment Group.

Toronto, ONT – IT and management consulting responsibility for manufacturing, not-for-profit, banking, financial services (primarily mutual funds and insurance), health care services, universities, and public sector clients based in Southern Ontario. Managed 20 consulting professionals on concurrent client engagements with project billings ranging $75-$350K. Key accountability included developing strategic information systems plans to support business goals. Technical member of the practice's forensic accounting team.

Relevant consulting assignments:

• Performed patient care system reviews and implementations at The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto East General Hospital, and Peterborough Civic Hospital.
• Trained and practiced in C&L’s proprietary SDLC methodology - SUMMIT-D.
• Acted as interim Controller of a $30 million vinyl siding subsidiary of Jannock Limited, Canada (client of Coopers & Lybrand). Appointed by the Vice President - Finance, Jannock Brick Group, to implement System Software Associates’ BPCS MRP II system on an IBM AS/400 and to manage the day-to-day activities of the accounting and information systems functions. The plant was located in Sardis, Mississippi. Discovered delinquency in sales and use tax payments and negotiated with state tax authorities to avoid Armor Bond fees and penalties in excess of $100K. Exposed and resolved discrepancies in payroll and accounting records including non-compliance with state withholding tax for the national sales force (9 salesmen, 7 states), errors in sales force bonus calculations, and unsubstantiated accounting accruals.
• Reviewed customer satisfaction levels of the Ontario government's centralized help desk function and recommended specific automation tools and service program improvements.
• Applied forensic accounting techniques using database tools and technologies for a Canadian insurance company to verify a $4 million robbery claim by a Toronto jewelry store by recreating inventory balances from purchase and sales records.
• Applied forensic accounting techniques using database tools and technologies for an Ontario municipality (City of Peterborough) to substantiate that a certain transit department employee embezzled more than $250 thousand in deposits over an 8 year period.
• Directed the planning phase to convert the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities, Student Support Branch’s student loan system from an MVS/XA mainframe environment to an AS/400 platform, and to integrate imaging technology into the system.
• Planned the conversion of a mainframe student loan system to an AS/400 environment for the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities (solution included imaging technology).
• Helped clients plan the implementation of Canada’s Goods and Services Tax. Key issues addressed included impact transactions had on applications and the changes necessary to accommodate the GST. Further, developed formal policies and procedures for client implementation.
• Managed computer operations (IBM System/36 -- RPG) for a distribution client in receivership.
• Developed a mutual funds audit application that processed financial data downloads from Reuters global data network.

Dallas, TX – IS audit and consulting responsibility for manufacturing, not-for-profit, high technology, banking, health care services, universities, and public sector clients based in Southwest U.S. Managed 9 consulting professionals on concurrent client engagements with project billings ranging $50-$250K. Key accomplishments included assisting clients to optimize application systems and effectively utilize IS resources.

Relevant consulting assignments:

• Performed patient care system reviews and implementations at Baylor Health Care System and Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Crippled Children.
• Trained and practiced in AA&Co.’s proprietary SDLC methodology - FOUNDATION.
• Reviewed the U.S. General Services Administration’s property rental revenue and collection system in Washington, DC, and one of its data centers in Southern California.
• Consolidated systems and reorganized 12 insolvent Texas savings and loan institutions for FSLIC and managed a loan portfolio analysis project of 15 failed Texas banks for the Federal Reserve Bank.
• Analyzed payroll records of 4,200 Dallas School District employees using database tools and technologies. Significant findings included incorrect pay rates and bonuses paid to terminated employees.
• Directed computer operations (MAI/Basic Four) for a regional food bank.

Dallas, TX & Niagara Falls, NY – Three years in Corporate Internal Audit, Dallas, TX at this $4 billion global manufacturer with EDP audit responsibility for North America, South America, Europe and the UK. Five years in progressive positions in data processing, finance and accounting at General Abrasive Division, Niagara Falls, NY ($30 million abrasive grain division).

Invited as guest lecturer to share my experiences in IT along with career paths in IT to the CSE442 classes of 100+ students.

Co-presenter to 150+ participants on how to efficiently manage ongoing operations to meet business objectives while maintaining a high-degree of operational integrity.

Main speaker at a 1,000+ member conference on the impact and requirements of Canada's newly announced GST and Ontario's PST on health care and adminstrative applications.

Bachelors degree in Accounting and Finance.

Certified through local municipality to manage and maintain electronic email and to ensure compliance with NYS records retention laws and regulations.