Kevin Schafer

Background

About Kevin Schafer

I’ve spent over two decades diving deep into the world of information technology, navigating through various roles that have shaped my understanding of infrastructure and databases. My journey began as a Systems Analyst at Norwest Financial, where I learned the ropes of data management. Fast forward to today, I’m currently leading a talented team at Athene as the IT Infrastructure Lead for Database/Middleware. It’s been quite the ride! One of my proudest moments was spearheading a comprehensive security overhaul for our Database Platforms while at Athene, which led us to achieve zero vulnerabilities during audits. This wasn’t just about ticking boxes; it was about building trust within our team and ensuring that we deliver secure solutions without compromising efficiency. I also introduced PostgreSQL as our primary database platform, which not only streamlines our operations but saves us over 80% in licensing costs – a win-win for both development efficiency and budget management. I thrive on collaboration and believe that great solutions come from great teamwork. Leading a group of up to 12 offshore Database contractors has taught me the importance of clear communication and shared goals. Together, we tackled complex migration projects into the cloud while ensuring seamless product delivery for our application teams. There’s something fulfilling about sharing knowledge and watching others grow in their careers! I also value community engagement; whether it's volunteering at events or simply sharing insights with peers over coffee. If you’re interested in discussing innovative strategies within your organization, feel free to connect via LinkedIn or contact me directly at schaferkd@icloud.com! I’d love to connect. Specialties: Project Management: People Management: Negotiation: Collaboration: Process Automation: Forecasting: Auditing: Technology Roadmaps: IT Compliance: Risk Management: Marketing