Rich Baird

About Rich Baird

AI/ML architecture, analytics solutions, and big data platforms, deploying automation scripts, integrating AI-driven analytics, and pursuing advanced certificate programs in AI and ML to enhance business outcomes. Target Conceptual and Logical Architecture design.M365 Architect with 35 years of IT experience specializing in Cybersecurity, Cloud, IAM, and Data Protection. Skilled in penetration testing, threat intelligence, vulnerability and attack surface management. Strong background in Enterprise Risk Management, IT Governance, and Compliance (HIPAA, GDPR, SOX) with hands-on experience applying NIST, ISO 27001, and COBIT frameworks to safeguard sensitive data and enforce classification policies.Highly skilled migration SME - Active Directory, Exchange Online, SharePoint, Teams, and OneDrive. High proficiency with Microsoft migration tools including Quest, Bit Titan, ShareGate, Mover, and advanced PowerShell scripting. Familiarity with SaaS, AWS, and Google integrations.Extensive experience architecting and managing Azure features—including Azure AD/Entra ID, Conditional Access, MFA, SSO, Sentinel, Defender, Intune, and Microsoft 365 migrations—at enterprise scale for complex identity, security, and collaboration projects across healthcare and multiple business sectors. Proven ability to deploy and optimize M365 solutions, licensing optimization, combining technical expertise with leadership and communication skills. Demonstrated experience developing customer success plans and enabling customer defined value to be realized. Channel friendly – experience working and collaborating with partners on customer opportunities. Advanced proficiency leveraging AI tools, Copilot, and multiple AI sources, with effective prompting strategies to optimize complex solution workflows and information retrieval.Passionate about mentoring teams, fostering collaboration, and ensuring seamless integration of IT systems to improve efficiency and security.Microsoft Certified (MCSE/MCSA/MCP): Azure Cosmos DB, Power BI, Security Operations Analyst, Cybersecurity Architect, Azure AI, Windows Server Hybrid, Messaging, Office 365, Exchange Server.Devoted father, husband, published author. Passionate about culinary arts, creative writing, coaching athletics, and performing stand-up comedy.English proficiency, Apple ID email address, Apple / Android devices and product features/familiarity.

Experience

1. M365 Solution Architect

   Independent Consultant

   Jan 2007 — Present · Atlanta, GA, US

   M365 Architect with 35 years of IT experience with keen focus on Cybersecurity, Cloud computing, Identity and Access Management (IAM), Data protection, classification, and sensitivity. Highly skilled migration SME - Active Directory, Exchange Online, SharePoint, Teams, and OneDrive. High proficiency with Microsoft migration tools including Quest, Bit Titan, ShareGate, Mover, and advanced PowerShell scripting. Familiarity with SaaS, AWS, and Google integrations.Extensive experience architecting and managing Azure features—including Azure AD/Entra ID, Conditional Access, MFA, SSO, Sentinel, Defender, Intune, and Microsoft 365 migrations—at enterprise scale for complex identity, security, and collaboration projects across healthcare and multiple business sectors.Proven ability to deploy and optimize M365 solutions, licensing optimization, combining technical expertise with leadership and communication skills. Passionate about mentoring teams, fostering collaboration, and ensuring seamless integration of IT systems to improve efficiency and security.

Education

• Utica University

  Master of Science - MS, Cybersecurity

  2018 — 2019

• Saint Joseph's University

  MBA, Management Information Systems

  1993 — 1994

• Villanova University

  BS, Accounting

  1986 — 1990