Mastering Remote IT and Cybersecurity with Evan Jost

In this Episode Evan Jost brings a unique blend of experience from the military and corporate sectors. As an IT manager at HighLevel, Evan’s transition from managing on-site aviation infrastructure to a global, remote workforce presents a fascinating journey. He shares how HighLevel’s integrated platform offers affordable solutions for businesses, especially when compared to competitors like HubSpot, without sacrificing quality or functionality. Evan discusses how his prior role involved managing physical assets across multiple locations, dealing with everything from security cameras to fiber-optic networks. In contrast, his current role at HighLevel allows him to manage IT remotely, which has brought about a new set of challenges, especially in global procurement and asset management.

Evan delves into the complexities of managing a distributed workforce, touching on the difficulties of ensuring timely hardware delivery and maintaining operational efficiency across different continents. He highlights the value of strong partnerships with vendors like Workwise, which helps streamline asset procurement in various countries. The conversation also covers the significant learning curve that comes with switching from Windows-based systems to a predominantly Mac environment, as well as the importance of mobile device management (MDM) systems like Intune for maintaining security and operational consistency.

In terms of cybersecurity, Evan emphasizes the need for vigilance and adaptability. With threats becoming more sophisticated, he explains the importance of early detection and rapid response, particularly in a remote work setting. As the conversation progresses, Evan shares his leadership philosophy, inspired by his military background. He believes in fostering team morale by shielding his employees from unnecessary stress and ensuring they have the resources they need to grow, both professionally and personally.