Network Services Manager

The Network Services Manager oversees the planning, implementation, and maintenance of an organization's network infrastructure. This role involves managing teams, ensuring network reliability, security, and performance, and aligning network services with business goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Network Strategy and Planning:

Develop and implement network strategies to support organizational objectives, including scalability, security, and performance optimization.

• Team Leadership:

Manage and mentor a team of network engineers and administrators, setting goals, conducting performance reviews, and fostering professional development.

• Network Operations:

Oversee the design, deployment, and maintenance of network infrastructure, including SD WAN, LAN, WAN, VPNs, and cloud-based networks.

• Security and Compliance:

Ensure network security protocols are in place, monitor threats, and maintain compliance with industry standards (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI-DSS).

• Vendor Management:

Negotiate with vendors for hardware, software, and services, ensuring cost-effective solutions and service-level agreements (SLAs).

• Troubleshooting and Support:

Oversee resolution of complex network issues, ensuring minimal downtime and efficient incident response.

• Budgeting and Resource Allocation:

Manage budgets for network operations, including hardware, software, and staffing costs.

• Collaboration:

Work with other IT teams (e.g., cybersecurity, applications, or infrastructure) and business units to align network services with organizational needs.

• Monitoring and Optimization:

Use tools to monitor network performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement improvements.

• Practical Experience designing, implementing and managing a Global SD Wan network - preferably Cato

Technical Skills:

• Experience in designing and supporting WLAN environments
• Proficiency with networking protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS).
• Experience with network hardware (e.g., Cisco, Juniper, Aruba, Cato).
• Knowledge of cloud networking (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
• Familiarity with network security tools (firewalls, IDS/IPS).
• Expertise in monitoring tools (e.g., SolarWinds, Nagios, Wireshark, Logic Monitor, Datadog).

Soft Skills:

• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent communication skills for coordinating with stakeholders.
• Problem-solving and strategic thinking.

Required Qualifications

• Experience: 7-10+ years in network engineering with at least 3-5 years in a managerial role.
• Technical Expertise: Proficiency in BGP, OSPF, MPLS, and hardware such as Cisco, Juniper, Aruba, or Cato.
• Education & Certifications: Bachelor's degree preferred; active CCNP, CCIE, ITIL, or Cloud certifications (AWS/Azure).