Our Client:
We are partnering with a leading financial services organisation seeking an experienced Senior Network Architect (AZURE) to join a dedicated project team delivering a redefining improvement programme.
Role Overview
As a Network Architect, you will be responsible for designing, installing, and maintaining a complex network infrastructure that supports the firm’s global operations. With a focus on secure, high-performing networks, you will oversee configurations, troubleshoot, and enhance the architecture of WAN, LAN, and wireless networks. You will be a key influencer in developing network strategy and play a pivotal role in keeping the firm at the forefront of technology innovation and compliance.
Key Responsibilities
- Design & Implement Network Solutions: Architect and implement scalable and secure network solutions, including routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, and other key infrastructure components.
- Network Performance Monitoring: Monitor and analyse network performance, ensuring availability, resilience, and security across WAN, LAN, and WLAN environments.
- Strategic Planning & Roadmaps: Develop and present network strategy and roadmaps to the IT Leadership team, ensuring alignment with business objectives and technology advancements.
- Documentation & Standards: Produce high-level and low-level design documents (HLD/LLD), maintaining clear records of network configurations and standards.
- Global Network Leadership: Act as the lead architect in network, internet, voice, and video technologies, providing guidance and strategic direction across the firm’s international locations.
- Collaboration & Advisory: Work closely with the CTO, Lead Infrastructure Architect, and senior IT stakeholders to recommend network technologies and vendors, ensuring alignment with the firm’s IT strategy.
- Research & Innovation: Stay updated on emerging network technologies, assessing their potential impact and application within the firm’s infrastructure.
Technical Expertise Required
- Core Networking: Strong background in LAN, WAN, WLAN solutions, with expertise in SDN and security.
- Data Center Network Design: Experience with data centre architectures, including top-of-rack, end-of-row, core, and edge switches.
- MPLS & SD-WAN: In-depth knowledge of MPLS, SD-WAN, including Microsoft ExpressRoute, vWAN, and Direct Access.
- Azure Networking: Hands-on experience with Azure VNETs, VNET Peering, NSGs, VNET Gateways, and Azure Traffic Manager.
- Network Hardware Proficiency: Proficiency in Cisco, Checkpoint, Palo Alto, and F5 load balancing technologies, with relevant certifications highly desirable (e.g., CCNP, Check Point Certified Security Administrator, or equivalent).
Candidate Profile
- Extensive Network Architecture Experience: Minimum of 5 years in network architecture or senior network engineering roles, preferably within a global organisation.
- Certifications: Relevant certifications such as Cisco CCNP, Azure AZ-700, or other relevant network certifications.
- Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement: Proven experience engaging with senior stakeholders and driving network initiatives aligned with business goals.
- Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills: Skilled in diagnosing and troubleshooting complex network issues and implementing effective solutions.
- Team Player with a Proactive Approach: Enthusiastic about mentoring and supporting network engineers, while being comfortable working independently when required.