Justin Bester

Detail-oriented SOC Analyst with 3 years of IT and tech experience in managing, triaging, and responding to security incidents, including dealing with over 400 incidents daily. Previously worked as an external IT Auditor. Possesses a Red Hat Certified System Administrator certification and expertise in SIEM rule creation, IDS implementation, and cybersecurity policy development.

Proven ability to automate workflows using Python and Bash, and analyze penetration test reports. Eager to leverage technical skills and incident response experience to enhance security operations at a forward-thinking organization.

Junior SOC Analyst at BetSoftware (2025-02 – 2026-05)

• Managed an average of over 400 security incidents daily.
• Triage and responded to security incidents across the BetSoftware and HollywoodBets environments.
• Developed, maintained, and refined correlation rules and parsers for the Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) system.
• Implemented on-site Intrusion Detection System (IDS) solutions.
• Researched and evaluated potential new or replacement tools for the security infrastructure.
• Administered the Security Operations Center's (SOC) Confluence documentation platform.

Technical Consultant at Carbon Vector (2022-02 – 2025-01)

• Integrated complex technical controls into existing IT architectures without disrupting business operations.
• Established and enforced IT security policies and procedures within diverse corporate settings.
• Automated tasks and reporting through the creation and analysis of Excel worksheets.
• Interpreted penetration test reports to generate comprehensive technical and executive summaries.
• Automated operational workflows using Python and Bash scripting.
• Conducted document reviews for compliance audits, including PCI DSS, ISAE 3402, and POPIA assessments.
• Formulated remediation strategies based on vulnerability scan findings and audit outcomes.

Bar and Beverage Manager at Adega Key West (2021-03 – 2021-10)

• Oversaw staff scheduling, inventory management, and supply orders.
• Fulfilled full-time responsibilities within the bar operations.

Bartender at Mad Giant Taproom (2020-11 – 2021-02)

• Provided full-time bartending services.
• Contributed to the development of new cocktail recipes.

Bartender at Molecular Bars (2019-07 – 2020-01)

• Served as a part-time event bartender for various functions.

Bar Manager at Ethos Restaurant (2019-07 – 2020-03)

• Directed staff scheduling, inventory control, and development of cocktail and menu items.
• Created signature drinks for events and made strategic stocking decisions based on anticipated demand.
• Implemented a supplementary inventory tracking system utilizing Excel spreadsheets.

Bartender at SinTax (2018-01 – 2019-06)

• Provided bartending services at a high-profile establishment.
• Contributed to the bar receiving multiple accolades, including 'Best Bar in Africa and the Middle East'.

Bartender / Head Bartender at Marble Restaurant (2016-08 – 2017-12)

• Advanced from Bartender to Head Bartender, assuming increased responsibilities.
• Managed staff scheduling, cocktail and menu creation, invoicing, inventory, and order fulfillment.

Matric – St Albans College, Pretoria (2010-01 – 2014-12)