Network Operations Manager

We are seeking an experienced Network Operations Manager to lead the stability, performance, and strategic evolution of our clients network infrastructure. This is a key leadership role responsible for both Business as Usual (BAU) operations and network transformation initiatives, ensuring secure, resilient and scalable connectivity across the organisation.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in modernising legacy network environments, strengthening security posture, and supporting wider IT transformation programmes.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management

Own day-to-day network operations, uptime, and performance across all sites. Ensure high availability, incident response, and root cause analysis processes are robust and continuously improved. Manage monitoring, alerting and reporting of network performance and capacity. Oversee change management processes related to network infrastructure.Security & Architecture

Lead the transition from perimeter-based security models toward layered / Zero Trust network architectures. Oversee SSL decryption strategies, firewall rulesets, segmentation and access controls. Collaborate with Security and Infrastructure teams to strengthen overall cyber resilience. Maintain compliance with internal security standards and industry best practices.Transformation & Modernisation

Drive modernisation of legacy Cisco Firepower and associated network equipment. Contribute to broader IT transformation programmes and system upgrades. Evaluate new networking technologies, vendors, and solutions aligned with long-term strategy. Develop roadmaps for network scalability and resilience.Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement

Work closely with senior IT leadership and cross-functional teams to align network capabilities with business objectives. Manage third-party suppliers, MSPs and contractors where required. Provide technical leadership and mentorship to network engineers or support teams. Produce executive-level reports on performance, risks and improvement plans.Skills & Experience Required

Strong hands-on background in enterprise networking. Deep experience with Cisco technologies, particularly Firepower and firewall management. Proven experience implementing Zero Trust / layered network security models. Knowledge of SSL Decryption, IDS/IPS, VPNs, segmentation and secure access controls. Experience with network monitoring and management tools. Understanding of cloud networking principles (Azure / AWS / Hybrid environments desirable).Professional

Demonstrated experience managing network operations in mid-to-large scale environments. Ability to balance BAU stability with transformation initiatives. Strong incident management and problem-solving capability. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. Experience managing suppliers or technical partners.Desirable

Certifications such as CCNP, CCIE, CISSP or equivalent. Exposure to SD-WAN, SASE or modern network security frameworks. Experience within regulated or security-sensitive industries.Working Arrangements

Predominantly remote, with occasional on-site presence required in Brierley Hill for key meetings, planning sessions or infrastructure reviews.What Success Looks Like

Improved network stability and reduced incident frequency. Clear roadmap and delivery of network modernisation initiatives. Strengthened security posture and adoption of layered/Zero Trust principles. Effective collaboration with wider IT and business stakeholders.