Meet the Team
Kashyap Patel
Systems and Cloud Engineer
Kashyap Patel is a dedicated System and Cloud Engineer with a robust educational background, including a Master’s degree in Information Technology from Charles Sturt University and advanced certifications in Azure, such as Azure Fundamentals, Azure Administrator Associate, and Azure Solution Architect Expert, along with a CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate).
Having completed his studies in Australia, Kashyap brings over two years of hands-on experience in designing, implementing, and managing cloud infrastructure solutions, particularly with Azure. His expertise includes endpoint security, backup and recovery management, and network troubleshooting.
Currently at Vertech IT Services, he plays a crucial role in configuring and managing various backup systems, network monitoring tools, and providing comprehensive support for client IT infrastructure. Kashyap’s technical skills are complemented by his proficiency in automation, cloud services administration, and a commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with emerging technologies. His problem-solving abilities and strong technical support background make him a valuable asset in optimizing and securing complex IT environments.
In his free time, he enjoys playing games and watching movies, balancing his professional life with his personal interests.
Rhett Zeeman
Systems Engineer
A motivated and proactive Server and Networking professional, possessing well over 20 years’ experience in IT operations. He has completed have done many certifications, ranging from A+, N+, MCSE 2000 and MCTS Exchange 2010 to more recent Linux+, CCNA/CCNP R&S and CCNA Security. Having passed the initial CCIE Written exam, COVID was right around the corner slowing down the lab studies.
Have been involved in many different departments, he has firsthand experience with many facets of IT ranging from networking to Managed Services, network, and server monitoring platforms as well as web design.
He enjoys learning new technologies or learning different vendors to expand his knowledge in all things IT related but outside of work he competes in many sports including football(indoor and out), action cricket and even lawn bowls. Currently online gaming is my downtime and way to relax.
Proud Nehanda
Senior Systems Engineer
With over 20 years of experience in systems administration, networking, and cybersecurity, Proud is a seasoned IT professional. He has expertise in various vendor technologies, including Cisco, Microsoft, Fortinet, SonicWall, and Sophos.
Over the years, he has seen lot of enterprise level technologies bleed into small to medium sized businesses. As a result, he has seen the value of continuous learning and is passionate about leveraging enterprise-level technologies in the SMB space. Proud loves sharing knowledge with teammates and helping customers understand complex technologies.
For him service is a lifestyle and when he is not engrossed with technology, he participates in his local church community. Proud is committed to his family and enjoys spending time with his three children.
Daniel Watson
Managing Director and Owner
Daniel has been the owner/operator of Vertech IT Services since 2010. His area's of focus are building a best in class Managed Services & Security Provider, advising on security & regulatory compliance and supporting clients with scalable resilient cloud solutions.
He loves meeting with clients and working out creative IT strategies that will make a real difference to their business as a whole.
He has a natural leadership ability and is instrumental in developing solid growth strategies for his team at Vertech to ensure that they strive to deliver the best possible solutions and services to their clients at all times.
Married with two teenage children, Daniel is actively involved as a Watch Assistant volunteer with the Spirit of Adventure Trust, as a leader in the local Sea Scouts Troop and was a Sergeant with the Royal New Zealand Engineering Corps Army Reserve
Lester Newman
Service Manager
Having previously worked as an IT Service Specialist, IT Support Specialist and IT Engineer, his talents were recognised and has recently been promoted to the role of Service Manager, working closely with the technical team to ensure a smooth sailing ship.
In his new role at Vertech, Lester will ensure service and support of the highest calibre.
Outside of work he is a Scout Leader loves the simple life, spending quality time with his family and watching his sons play football and cricket over weekends.
Frankie Lee
Security & Systems Engineer
When my father got his first desktop computer at home when I was a kid, this ignited my interest in computers and the reason I pursued a career in the IT industry.
I have completed a Bachelor of Information Technology at RMIT University in Melbourne. On the other hand, I have three years of customer service experience in the telecommunication sector in New Zealand. I am also interested in electronic gadgets, and I have experience in repairing mobile phones and laptops.
The rise of cybercrime and incidents also stimulates me to explore cyber security. Therefore, I recently completed a Master of Information Technology at the University of Auckland and specialising in information security. I also had good exposure to the security system as I was working as an intern at Vertech.
During my downtime, I watch Netflix with my family and go out with my Cavoodle to play ball.
Dean Fourie
Systems Engineer
Dean joined Vertech in 2022 as a Systems engineer. His primary goal will be to manage service desk escalations and project tasks. Network engineering has captured his interest and is his field of choice. He is currently studying to extend his knowledge further to ensure he stays ahead of the forever changing industry requirements.
Dean is excited to get in front of our clients and solve the issues that they face on the daily.
In his spare time he enjoys everything Squash and in his downtime, music is his go to. Dean loves playing the acoustic guitar.
Abby Watson
Service Desk Engineer
Abby recently joined our team on her journey of exploring the world of IT.
She has always had a keen interest in IT which is no surprise given Daniel’s influence.
Abby will form part of our service desk team handling all your day-to-day requests and escalating any pressing issues when the need arises.
She has a great sense for listening compassionately and is eager to help with the management and escalations of your concerns. Abby has a history in retail so she plans on utilizing her experience in delivering on the promise of getting back to clients.
In her spare time she gets lost in the world of video games with a special interest in Dungeons and Dragons.