Richard Bergsma

I'm Richard Bergsma, an IT professional with over 15 years of experience designing, implementing, and maintaining complex IT environments. My work sits at the intersection of infrastructure, cloud, automation, and integration, with a strong focus on solutions that continue delivering value long after the initial implementation.

I prioritize sustainable solutions over quick wins that create long-term problems. I challenge solutions that appear convenient today but will become fragile tomorrow.

About me

With over 15 years of IT experience, I specialize in designing and implementing solutions for complex cloud and on-premise systems. I focus on automation with Power Automate, building intelligent chatbots in Copilot Studio, and integrating APIs to streamline workflows.

I also manage Microsoft 365 environments, support 3rd line requests, and enhance efficiency with tools like Power Apps, Nexthink, and TOPdesk.

Previously, I led Microsoft 365 and SharePoint Online implementations, migrated mail systems, and improved automation with SCCM. I also founded Bergsma IT, helping small businesses move to the cloud.

Work experience

My professional journey through innovative technology roles

IT Systems and Automation Manager

COFRA Holding C.V.

2025 - Present Amsterdam

As the IT Systems and Automation Manager at COFRA Holding, I focus on driving automation through Power Automate and building advanced chatbots in Copilot Studio to streamline processes and enhance operational efficiency. My work involves integrating APIs to create seamless workflows, automating recurring tasks, and supporting digital transformation initiatives. In addition to my automation responsibilities, I continue to manage our Microsoft 365 environment, support 3rd line requests, develop Power Apps, oversee our Nexthink environment, manage TOPdesk, and contribute to various IT projects as needed.

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Office 365 Professional

COFRA Holding C.V.

2020 - 2025 Amsterdam

As the Microsoft 365 expert within COFRA Holding, I manage the environment, communicate new features, and provide 3rd line support to colleagues. I deliver solutions ranging from Power Automate flows to Power Apps development. I also lead the setup and management of our Nexthink environment, oversee TopDesk, and drive other projects as needed. I specialize in leveraging Power Automate to enhance automation across the organization.

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Cloud systems and Application Engineer

Hyva

2018 - 2020 Alphen aan den Rijn

Managed global IT infrastructure across 35 countries, driving the implementation and integration of Office 365 and SharePoint Online to enhance collaboration. Led seamless migrations from diverse mail systems to Office 365, improving communication efficiency and reliability. Spearheaded the consolidation of global IT operations by replacing two data centers, setting up and optimizing Azure environments, and managing costs effectively. Implemented SCCM to automate key processes, boosting service desk efficiency. Provided third-line support via TOPdesk, resolving complex IT issues and ensuring high service quality.

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IT Consultant

Bergsma.IT

2018 - 2019 Zoetermeer

Founded the company to help small businesses modernize their IT infrastructure through cloud-based solutions, focusing on Microsoft technologies to enhance efficiency, scalability, and collaboration. Successfully executed email and file server migrations to Microsoft cloud platforms, provided ongoing technical support, and designed tailored WordPress websites. Streamlined workflows with Microsoft 365 and delivered customized IT solutions aligned with clients' business goals.

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Technical Application Engineer SharePoint

Allseas

2018 - 2018 Delft

Managed and optimized SharePoint 2013 and SharePoint Online environments to support collaboration and productivity. Created and customized SharePoint sites, implemented workflows, and provided expert support for Cadac Organice. Worked closely with stakeholders to deliver tailored solutions, ensuring secure, up-to-date, and high-performing SharePoint systems.

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IT System Administrator

OZ Export

2015 - 2017 De Kwakel

Managed and maintained the organization's IT infrastructure to ensure system reliability and seamless operations. Oversaw servers, client PCs, portable scanners, and printers, optimizing performance and minimizing downtime. Configured VoIP systems, managed network switches, and administered Citrix environments for secure remote access. Installed and supported on-premise SharePoint environments to enhance collaboration. Designed and maintained the organization's surveillance system and helpdesk platform, streamlining IT support and strengthening security. Provided hands-on troubleshooting for hardware, software, and network issues to support daily operations.

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Technical focus

My background spans on-premises infrastructure, cloud platforms, identity, security, and automation

I design systems that reduce manual effort, eliminate ambiguity, and fail in understandable ways.

Certifications and tooling serve as foundations for sound decisions. I prioritize solutions that are appropriate, maintainable, and easily understood by future team members over following trends.

Skills

Technical proficiencies and tools

Automation & Integration

Power Automate
Copilot Studio
API Integrations
Microsoft Power Apps

Cloud & Infrastructure

Microsoft 365 Administration
SharePoint Online & On-Premise
IT Infrastructure Management
Intune Device Management

Administration & Support

SharePoint Online & On-Premise
Nexthink Administration
ITSM (TOPDesk)
PowerShell
3rd Line IT Support

Certifications & Applied Skills

Where Knowledge Meets Recognition

Cert
Power Platform Fundamentals

Power Platform Fundamentals

Date Issued: 01-2026

Skill

Extend Microsoft 365 Copilot with declarative agents by using Visual Studio Code

Date Issued: 01-2026

Skill

Generate reports with AI research agents

Date Issued: 01-2026

Skill

Get started with classes, properties, and methods in C#

Date Issued: 01-2026

Skill

Get started with Azure management tasks

Date Issued: 01-2026

Skill

Streamline business workflows with AI chat

Date Issued: 01-2026

Skill

Get started with identities and access using Microsoft Entra

Date Issued: 06-2025

Skill

Create and manage automated processes with Power Automate

Date Issued: 06-2025

Skill

Create agents in Microsoft Copilot Studio

Date Issued: 06-2025

Cert
Stakeholder Management

Stakeholder Management

Date Issued: 03-2025

Cert
Certified Nexthink Professional

Certified Nexthink Professional

Date Issued: 01-2025

Cert
Certified Nexthink Administrator

Certified Nexthink Administrator

Date Issued: 11-2024

Cert
Certified Nexthink Associate

Certified Nexthink Associate

Date Issued: 11-2024

Cert
Crucial Conversations

Crucial Conversations

Date Issued: 03-2024

Cert
Python Programmer (PCEP)

Python Programmer (PCEP)

Date Issued: 11-2023

Cert
Desktop Administrator Associate

Desktop Administrator Associate

Date Issued: 06-2023

Cert
Microsoft 365 Fundamentals

Microsoft 365 Fundamentals

Date Issued: 05-2023

Cert
Teams Administrator Associate

Teams Administrator Associate

Date Issued: 06-2021

Cert
Azure Fundamentals

Azure Fundamentals

Date Issued: 01-2020

Education

Bachelor of Applied Science - BASc, Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering
De Haagse Hogeschool / The Hague University of Applied Sciences
2011 - 2013
Bachelor of Applied Science - BASc, Information Technology
De Haagse Hogeschool / The Hague University of Applied Sciences
2011 - 2011
Associate's degree, Information Technology
ID College
2007 - 2011

Beyond work

Outside of client projects, I dedicate time to side projects and open-source contributions. These pursuits often become deeply engaging, where hours pass unnoticed.

I value close relationships and straightforward communication. I maintain honesty, helpfulness, and fairness as core principles that I never compromise for short-term gains.