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About Charlie

I’m a Cloud Security Architect, Microsoft MVP and Microsoft Certified Trainer based in Somerset, UK. I specialise in the Microsoft Security ecosystem — from Entra and Defender XDR to Sentinel and Purview — helping organisations design, deliver and sustain secure environments.

As Head of Cloud Solutions at Brightsolid, I work directly with customers to translate complex security challenges into practical, results-driven Microsoft solutions. I’m passionate about security automation, tool consolidation, and making enterprise security achievable rather than overwhelming.

When I’m not working or studying for my next certification, I’m usually on an adventure with my three boys — Bertie, Finn and Ellis. Beach walks, woodland trails, or building Lego when the weather keeps us indoors.

Stack

Technology Expertise

Identity & Access
Microsoft Entra
Conditional Access
Threat Protection
Microsoft Defender XDR
Defender for Endpoint
Defender for Identity
Defender for Cloud Apps
SIEM & Automation
Microsoft Sentinel
PowerShell
KQL
Data Security
Microsoft Purview
Cloud Platform
Azure Security
Azure Networking
Microsoft 365
Azure Virtual Desktop

Milestones

Career Journey

2025

Head of Cloud Solutions - Brightsolid

Leading presales and solutions architecture across the Microsoft stack, helping customers design, secure, and get the most out of their cloud environment

2024

Head of Presales — Atech Cloud

Leading presales strategy for Microsoft solutions, working directly with customers to design and deliver secure environments.

2023

Awarded Microsoft MVP — Security

Recognised by Microsoft for community contributions to cloud security, content creation and technical advocacy.

2021

Microsoft Certified Cybersecurity Architect Expert

Achieved the SC-100 certification, validating expertise across the full Microsoft Security portfolio.

2020

Microsoft Certified Trainer

Became an MCT, delivering training on Microsoft 365, Azure and Security technologies.

2019

Cloud Security Insider Founded

Launched this blog to share knowledge, walkthroughs and insights across the Microsoft Security ecosystem.