A Bermuda-based IT consultant has just joined the ranks of the Microsoft elite.Serkan Varoglu has been named a Microsoft MVP (Most Valuable Professional) — making him one of only 100 Exchange Server MVPs in the world and the only one in Bermuda.MVPs are independent experts who are offered a close connection with people at Microsoft. The company often gives them early access to Microsoft products as well as the opportunity to provide their feedback and recommendations about product design, development and support.Mr Varoglu is a senior consultant with Independent Consulting Solutions (ICS), a Bermuda-based technology firm that provides technology solutions and guidance to a number companies in the insurance, reinsurance, captive management, banking, shipping, retail and hospitality sectors.Originally from Turkey, Mr Varoglu joined ICS a year ago. He has worked in the IT industry for more than ten years and is particularly focused on Microsoft Exchange Server and Microsoft Lync Server. He spends much of his time supporting various Bermuda companies in insurance, reinsurance and finance.He’s now one of only three MVPs in the Latin America Caribbean Region. Becoming one of only 100 Exchange MVPs in the world has taken years of additional hard work and study.“Many people claim to be Exchange Architects when really they are not,” said ICS chief operating officer, Stephen Bull. “Serkan is the real thing, and this accolade from Microsoft proves it. The clients he supports really are getting the very best and the management and staff at ICS could not be more proud.”Since the early 1990s, Microsoft has recognised top technology experts around the world with the MVP Award. The MVP Award is the company’s way of recognising exceptional, independent community leaders who share their passion, technical expertise and real-world knowledge of Microsoft products with others.“Of more than 100 million users who participate in technology communities, only around 4,000 worldwide are recognised as Microsoft MVPs,” says Microsoft regional manager, George Gobin. “His becoming an MVP puts ICS at the top of their game for Microsoft in Bermuda.”Mr Varoglu is closely involved with the global Exchange Server community through his blog, www.get-mailbox.org and also co-hosts Exchange podcasts at www.theUCArchitects.com.