Description:
The Head of Networks is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, maintenance, and performance of the organization's network infrastructure. This role ensures that the network architecture aligns with the organization's strategic goals, meets performance and security requirements, and supports scalability and innovation.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute a comprehensive network strategy aligned with organizational objectives.
- Define network-related policies, standards, and governance frameworks to ensure best practices and compliance.
- Evaluate emerging technologies and trends to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge.
2. Network Design and Architecture
- Oversee the design and deployment of robust, scalable, and secure network infrastructure, including LAN, WAN, data centers, cloud connectivity, and wireless networks.
- Ensure high availability and performance of network services, including redundancy and disaster recovery mechanisms.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of network infrastructure with other IT systems.
3. Operations and Maintenance
- Manage the day-to-day operations of the network team, ensuring timely issue resolution and minimal downtime.
- Develop and implement monitoring systems to proactively identify and address network performance issues.
- Ensure all network systems are patched, updated, and secure against evolving cyber threats.
4. Team Management
- Lead and mentor the network engineering and operations teams, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
- Define roles, responsibilities, and KPIs for the network team.
- Drive talent acquisition, skill development, and performance management for team members.
5. Vendor and Budget Management
- Oversee vendor selection, negotiations, and management for network hardware, software, and services.
- Develop and manage the network budget, ensuring cost-efficiency while meeting organizational needs.
- Track ROI on network-related investments and projects.
6. Security and Compliance
- Collaborate with the cybersecurity team to ensure the network infrastructure is compliant with security policies and regulatory requirements.
- Lead incident response efforts for network-related security breaches or vulnerabilities.
- Implement network access controls, firewalls, and VPNs to safeguard sensitive data.
7. Reporting and Documentation
- Provide regular updates and reports on network performance, issues, and future plans to senior management.
- Maintain comprehensive documentation of network configurations, processes, and incident resolutions.
Key Requirements
Educational Background
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Telecommunications, or a related field.
- Master’s degree is a plus.
Professional Experience
- 10+ years of experience in network engineering and operations, with at least 5 years in a leadership or managerial role.
- Proven experience with large-scale network architecture, including data centers, cloud environments, and hybrid infrastructures.
- Expertise in managing enterprise-grade networking solutions (e.g., Cisco, Juniper, Arista, Fortinet).