Network Architect

The Network Architect will act as the technical authority for network environments and serve as the subject matter expert for network vendors, business users, and other IT teams, along with associated infrastructure partners. Reporting to the Network Lead, the Network Architect will be responsible for designing and implementing complex network infrastructures that align with organisational needs and objectives. This position requires a blend of advanced technical expertise, strategic planning, and strong communication skills to translate business requirements into effective, scalable network solutions.

What you'll do

• Architect, design, and implement robust network solutions that align with organisational goals and industry best practices, ensuring compliance with relevant standards
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive network strategy to ensure scalability, reliability, and security
• Create strategies that optimise cost-efficiency and deliver value while achieving objectives
• Develop secure designs that meet or exceed security objectives and engage in risk and resilience assessments
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and tools to enhance network performance and security
• Create and maintain detailed network diagrams, documentation, and standards to ensure consistency and clarity across the organisation
• Work closely with IT teams, business leaders, and external vendors to gather requirements and deliver effective network solutions
• Collaborate with managed service providers to review network architecture sections of contracts and participate in supplier governance to verify compliance
• Present design plans and ideas to both technical and non-technical stakeholders at all levels
• Provide expert-level support for complex network issues and perform root cause analysis to prevent recurrence
• Ensure network designs comply with relevant regulations, security standards, and organisational policies
• Monitor network performance and plan for future capacity needs to prevent bottlenecks and ensure optimal performance
• Assist operational teams during implementation and provide assurance for successful handover
• Provide operational support as a technical expert in situations where the need arises due to the criticality of the issues.
• Support and mentor team members to develop network design and architecture capabilities

• Proven experience in network design, implementation, and management, with recent responsibility in a network architect capacity
• Relevant certifications such as Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) or equivalent
• In-depth knowledge of networking protocols, routing, switching, firewall configuration, VPN, and network security
• Experience with SD-WAN solutions for on-prem and hybrid cloud environments
• Strong experience with cloud networking and hybrid cloud environments
• Experience working with large-scale managed service providers across multiple geographies
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to design and optimise complex network infrastructures
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively and document network designs
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and deliver within deadlines
• Willingness to stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• Proficiency in network automation and scripting
• Knowledge of wireless networking technologies
• Experience with SD-WAN and network virtualisation technologies