Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Technical Profile
Key Skills And Achievements
References
Flower macro photography, landscape photography, ice skating, bouldering
Languages
Timeline
background-images

Sarah Li

Birmingham

Summary

I am a practical and adaptable IT Technician and Windows Engineer with strong second line support experience across Microsoft Intune, Entra ID, Azure Active Directory and Windows endpoint environments. I manage the full IT asset lifecycle from tagging and deployment through to compliance, automation and secure decommissioning, ensuring reliable and efficient systems across the organisation. At Housing21, I play a vital role in maintaining the digital workplace for both frontline care and office staff. I deliver refresh projects ahead of schedule, support a large user base with minimal disruption and work collaboratively with field engineers and infrastructure teams to maintain secure and efficient operations. Previously, as a Cyber Security Apprentice at Bentley Motors, I supported global compliance projects and vulnerability management processes, working closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment between cyber security standards and business operations. This strengthened my understanding of information security, service level management and stakeholder coordination in a complex environment. I combine technical expertise, clear communication and attention to detail with a calm and methodical approach. I am currently studying for CompTIA A+, Microsoft MD 102 and MS 102, with long term ambitions to progress into endpoint administration or cyber operations.

Knowledgeable IT Service engineer with solid background in diagnosing and repairing complex systems and equipment. Proven success in reducing downtime and enhancing operational efficiency through effective troubleshooting and maintenance strategies. Demonstrated proficiency in utilizing diagnostic tools and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure optimal results.

Overview

22
22
years of professional experience

Work History

IT Service Engineer

Housing21
09.2025 - Current
  • As a member of the IT Operations team, I provide second line and desktop support across the organisation, maintaining service continuity for both office and field based teams.
  • I manage the complete IT asset lifecycle from procurement and tagging to deployment, maintenance and secure disposal.
  • I manage and secure assets and user accounts through Microsoft Intune, Azure Active Directory and Microsoft Entra ID. Every asset and account is configured, compliant and accurately assigned.
  • I handle access requests, user provisioning and permissions to maintain alignment between security policies and operational needs.
  • I have delivered several large scale Windows 10 and Windows 11 refresh projects and Android deployments.
  • Through automation using PowerShell and Command Prompt, I reduced manual configuration time and improved consistency, allowing our team to complete a major rollout one week ahead of schedule with almost no post deployment issues.
  • I work collaboratively with field engineers, project leads and infrastructure teams to identify dependencies, resolve issues and ensure seamless handovers.
  • I take full ownership of escalations, investigate root causes and communicate updates clearly to maintain user confidence and minimise downtime.
  • Diagnosed and resolved technical issues for housing-related equipment and systems.
  • Installed, configured and tested equipment on specialised platforms.
  • Boosted service quality by continually updating technical knowledge and staying current with industry trends.
  • Analyzed, troubleshot and diagnosed problems and provided prompt repair and solutions.
  • Created relationships with key decision-makers and served as external technical spokesperson.
  • Increased client retention, delivering exceptional customer service during on-site visits and remote support sessions.
  • Improved system efficiency with thorough troubleshooting and root cause analysis of technical issues.
  • Engaged in first-level support for customers requiring routine support and troubleshooting.
  • Provided customer feedback to team to facilitate project road map and relationship planning.
  • Worked cross-functionally within organization and external partners, integrators and vendors.
  • Assisted in the creation of user manuals and documentation for ease of reference during routine maintenance tasks.
  • Delivered outstanding after-sales support, maintaining open lines of communication with clients to address concerns or inquiries promptly.
  • Performed troubleshooting and repair for complex electrical equipment.
  • Visually inspected and tested machinery and equipment, performing routine preventive maintenance.
  • Diagnosed and resolved machine operation variations and equipment problems.

Community Support Assistant

Volunteer Work
01.2019 - 12.2025
  • I volunteer in my local community helping people with device access, account recovery and online safety.
  • Many of the individuals I support have limited technical knowledge, so I provide clear step by step guidance and create simple written materials to help them become more confident and independent.

Cyber Security Apprentice Level 6

Bentley Motors Ltd
09.2024 - 02.2025
  • I worked in the Cyber Security and Compliance team supporting critical global operations.
  • My responsibilities included managing security tickets, ensuring audit accuracy and maintaining communication between technical teams and business stakeholders.
  • I contributed to compliance initiatives by interpreting regulatory requirements and converting them into actionable steps for technical teams.
  • I used Jira to triage and validate 40-60 incoming or ongoing tickets, escalated appropriately and maintained precise documentation.
  • I supported vulnerability tracking, risk reporting and patch management, helping to ensure consistent adherence to internal and external security standards.
  • Collaborated with team members to develop and implement emergency response protocols.
  • Consistently met or exceeded performance metrics as set forth by supervisors and company objectives.

English Tutor

01.2024 - 06.2024
  • I provided private English tutoring for students of varying abilities.
  • I planned and delivered tailored lessons, monitored progress and adapted materials to meet individual learning styles.

Front of house manager

Canton Delight
03.2023 - 01.2024
  • I managed the front of house operations in a busy restaurant environment.
  • I handled high volumes of telephone and in person enquiries, processed bookings and coordinated between customers, kitchen staff and delivery drivers.
  • I introduced verification checks that reduced ordering errors and improved service accuracy.

Assistant manager

Golden City
01.2004 - 08.2023
  • I was responsible for the daily operations of the business including staff management, scheduling and service quality.
  • I led the transition from paper based systems to digital processes which introduced role based access controls, CCTV locations, secure passwords and session lock practices.

Legal assistant

John Wilson solicitors
02.2012 - 12.2013
  • I supported a busy legal caseload and maintained accurate client files and bundles with full version control.
  • I introduced structured filing and data protection protocols including immediate screen locks practices, handling of client files, strong password policy and secure document storage.

Education

BSc (Hons) - Digital and Technology Solutions

Manchester Metropolitan University
11.2025

LLB (Hons) - Law with Criminology

Birmingham City University
07.2008

IT Technician Skills Bootcamp (Level 3) -

Just IT Training
08.2025

Cyber Security Boot Camp -

Althaus Digital
03.2024

A levels - ICT, Business Studies, Law, General Studies

AS level - English Literature

GCSEs - Including English Language, English Literature, ICT and Mathematics, grades ATo C

Skills

  • Operational Excellence
  • Service Delivery
  • Triage Accuracy
  • Workflow Automation
  • Windows 11 Rollout
  • Coordination
  • Proactive Troubleshooting
  • Collaboration
  • Identity and Access Governance
  • Access Management
  • Standardising Identity Governance
  • Compliance
  • Auditability
  • Role Based Access
  • Automatic Session Lockouts
  • Password Policies
  • Account Provisioning
  • MFA Configuration
  • Data Protection
  • GDPR Principles
  • Password Manager Use
  • Secure Storage Practices
  • Data Handling Awareness
  • Root Cause Analysis
  • Automation
  • Jira
  • Freshservice
  • PowerShell
  • CMD Scripting
  • SLA Adherence
  • Self-Correcting Scripts
  • Documentation
  • Knowledge Sharing
  • Onboarding Efficiency
  • Stakeholder Communication
  • Cross-Team Communication
  • Project Alignment
  • Expectation Management
  • Progress Updates
  • Cyber Awareness
  • Digital Literacy
  • Training Sessions
  • Technical support
  • Equipment assembly
  • System diagnostics
  • Hardware configuration
  • Equipment operation
  • Equipment installation
  • Hardware repair
  • Equipment monitoring
  • Software installation
  • Error reduction
  • Technical and diagnostic support
  • Written and verbal communication
  • Equipment troubleshooting
  • Technical troubleshooting
  • Diagnostics and troubleshooting
  • Customer relations

Accomplishments

  • Delivered a full Windows refresh project one week ahead of schedule with near zero post deployment incidents.
  • Developed and implemented PowerShell scripts to automate compliance checks, saving time and improving accuracy.

Technical Profile

I have strong hands on experience with Microsoft Entra ID and Azure Active Directory for user and asset identity governance, access control and conditional access policy enforcement. I am skilled in user provisioning, hybrid identity synchronisation, password standards and role based access control, ensuring that environments remain secure, well organised and compliant.


I am highly proficient in Microsoft Intune for device compliance, configuration profiles, application deployment and endpoint protection. I manage the full device lifecycle, including imaging, tagging, deployment, monitoring and secure decommissioning of assets. I have worked extensively with Android and Windows 10 and Windows 11 builds, deployments and patch management using the Windows Media Creation Tool and Intune mobile device management.


I have strong practical knowledge of PowerShell and Command Prompt scripting for enrolment, auditing, reporting and automated fixes. I regularly configure Group Policy and registry settings to improve performance and strengthen endpoint security, and I use scripting to streamline processes, reduce manual workload and improve response times.

I have a solid understanding of DNS, DHCP, IP addressing, VPN configuration and wireless network troubleshooting. I provide ongoing support for Microsoft Teams, SharePoint and OneDrive integration, making sure connectivity and permissions are correctly maintained so that collaboration across departments is smooth and reliable.

I am experienced in asset management and IT ticketing systems, including Freshservice and Jira, for ticket triage, escalation, audit trails and service level tracking. At Housing 21 I closed and resolved around seven hundred and twenty tickets in a two month period, demonstrating a consistent, efficient and organised approach to support. I also maintain structured documentation and knowledge bases to support consistent operations and make it easier for colleagues to find clear guidance. I am familiar with workflow automation and process optimisation and use these to improve response times and reduce repeat issues.


My security experience includes implementing multi factor authentication and device compliance policies across multiple environments. I have a working knowledge of GDPR and ISO aligned data protection practices and broader cyber awareness principles. I promote identity hygiene, regular patching and a positive security culture across teams.

I provide full support for Microsoft 365, including Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Teams, SharePoint and OneDrive. I deliver remote support using Quick Assist, Remote Desktop Protocol and Teams screen sharing, and I am comfortable helping users with software troubleshooting and configuration in both office based and remote environments.


I bring an analytical and methodical approach to troubleshooting, combined with excellent communication skills. I remain calm under pressure, adapt to changing priorities and focus on continuous improvement through collaboration, knowledge sharing and reflective practice.

Key Skills And Achievements

I consistently maintained high ticket resolution rates while balancing complex service demands, improving triage accuracy and workflow automation to reduce resolution time and prevent repeat incidents. I played a key role in delivering a major Windows 11 rollout at Housing 21 a full week ahead of schedule through proactive troubleshooting, effective coordination and collaboration with field engineers. I led access management improvements across departments by standardising identity governance and enforcing need-to-know permissions, strengthening compliance and auditability through role-based access, automatic session lockouts and robust password policies. I supported account provisioning and multi-factor authentication configuration through Entra ID and Azure AD.


I modernised data handling and record keeping by embedding GDPR principles into daily operations, introducing password manager use, secure storage practices and awareness sessions on safe data handling. These improvements reduced data handling errors and improved audit trail consistency across teams. I analysed recurring issues in Jira and Freshservice to identify root causes and developed automated solutions using PowerShell and CMD scripting, creating self-correcting scripts for device compliance and reporting that improved SLA adherence and reduced manual workload.


I produced concise, plain-English user guides and checklists to simplify complex processes for both colleagues and end users, improving onboarding efficiency and reducing clarification requests through well-maintained documentation and a centralised knowledge base. I worked closely with both technical and non-technical teams to align project goals, maintain clear communication and proactively manage expectations, ensuring confidence and timely delivery during high-pressure periods. I also delivered informal training sessions on cyber hygiene and safe digital practices, coaching users on password security, software updates and device protection, which improved digital literacy and reduced recurring support requests.

Tools used: Microsoft Intune, Entra ID, Azure Active Directory, PowerShell, CMD scripting, Freshservice, Jira and Windows 11.


Key Skills Highlighted

Technical Competencies

  • Microsoft Intune endpoint management
  • Microsoft Entra ID and Azure Active Directory
  • Windows 10 and 11 deployment and configuration
  • PowerShell and CMD scripting for automation
  • Identity and access management (RBAC, MFA, governance)
  • Device compliance and lifecycle management
  • IT ticketing and service management (Freshservice, Jira)
  • Workflow automation and SLA adherence
  • GDPR compliance and data protection practices
  • Cyber hygiene and user security awareness training

Professional and Transferable Skills

  • High-volume ticket triage and problem resolution
  • Project coordination and cross-departmental collaboration
  • Technical documentation and knowledge base management
  • Communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Process improvement and workflow efficiency
  • User coaching and mentoring
  • Strong attention to detail and analytical problem-solving
  • Calm, professional demeanour under pressure
  • Time management and task prioritisation

References

References are available upon request.

Flower macro photography, landscape photography, ice skating, bouldering

Outside of work, I love immersing myself in photography, especially macro flower and landscape photography. What started as curiosity quickly became a real passion. I spent months teaching myself how to use a DSLR in full manual mode, experimenting with light, focus, and colour until I could capture the intricate details of a single petal or the vast calm of a sunrise. Each photograph feels like freezing a small piece of wonder in time.

When I am not behind the lens, you will often find me at the ice rink or climbing wall. Ice skating gives me a sense of freedom and rhythm, while bouldering keeps me focused and determined, constantly testing my balance, patience, and problem-solving skills. Together, these hobbies keep me creative, energised, and always ready to take on a new challenge.

Languages

English
Native language
Chinese (Cantonese)
Advanced
C1

Timeline

IT Service Engineer

Housing21
09.2025 - Current

Cyber Security Apprentice Level 6

Bentley Motors Ltd
09.2024 - 02.2025

English Tutor

01.2024 - 06.2024

Front of house manager

Canton Delight
03.2023 - 01.2024

Community Support Assistant

Volunteer Work
01.2019 - 12.2025

Legal assistant

John Wilson solicitors
02.2012 - 12.2013

Assistant manager

Golden City
01.2004 - 08.2023

BSc (Hons) - Digital and Technology Solutions

Manchester Metropolitan University

IT Technician Skills Bootcamp (Level 3) -

Just IT Training

Cyber Security Boot Camp -

Althaus Digital

A levels - ICT, Business Studies, Law, General Studies

AS level - English Literature

GCSEs - Including English Language, English Literature, ICT and Mathematics, grades ATo C

LLB (Hons) - Law with Criminology

Birmingham City University
Sarah Li