Overview
We are seeking a Regional Network Architect with expertise in designing and deploying hybrid cloud networks.
This role involves supporting and optimising the organisation's global network infrastructure, including firewalls, switches, VPNs, and LAN / WAN connectivity with a focus on Europe.
The ideal candidate brings a solid foundation in network security, excellent troubleshooting skills, and experience maintaining high-availability infrastructure. Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure) is an advantage.
Key Responsibilities
- Architect and implement secure, scalable, and standardised multi-site datacentre and hybrid cloud network infrastructure.
- Ensure regional networks align with global standards, driving integration and consistency across sites.
- Perform in-depth network reviews to identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies; proactively plan and implement improvements to enhance performance, reliability, and productivity.
- Lead the design and implementation of future-ready network architectures that support business growth and modern workloads.
- Manage and monitor core network components including firewalls, switches, routers, and VPNs across regional and global environments.
- Maintain and optimise network security operations—proactively monitoring for threats using tools like FortiAnalyzer or Panorama, ensuring timely updates and patching for all firewalls and network-connected appliances.
- Conduct regular external site checks, security assessments, and threat analysis to ensure compliance with security best practices and evolving threat landscapes.
- Oversee and maintain enterprise Wi-Fi infrastructure (e.g. Meraki, Aruba) across office locations, ensuring strong performance, seamless roaming, and secure access.
- Manage and maintain domain and DNS services across platforms such as GoDaddy, UltraDNS, etc including procurement, deployment, and renewal of SSL certificates to ensure secure connectivity.
- Provide L3 escalation support for critical incidents, ensuring regional stability and supporting global uptime objectives.
- Collaborate with global IT teams to validate new technologies for compatibility and ensure smooth deployment into the existing infrastructure.
- Continuously monitor network performance using tools like SolarWinds and PRTG, identifying areas for cost and efficiency improvements.
- Participate in cloud network migration and optimisation initiatives on AWS and Azure, contributing to long-term cloud strategy.
- Support out-of-hours maintenance windows, system upgrades, and security incident responses as needed.
- Maintain comprehensive documentation for network designs, configurations, changes, and SOPs.
- Champion knowledge sharing across regions, and contribute actively to cross-functional infrastructure and security projects.
Technical Expertise & Skills
Mandatory Requirements
- Minimum 5 years proven experience in enterprise network design and architecture, including hybrid cloud, LAN / WAN, SDWAN, MPLS, and managing VPNs.
- Strong working knowledge of global network integration, standardisation, and multi-site configuration best practices.
- Demonstrated ability to perform detailed network analysis, identify performance bottlenecks, and implement scalable improvements.
- Hands-on experience managing enterprise firewalls (e.g. FortiGate, Palo Alto), including high-availability setup, policy management, and threat response.
- Familiarity with security monitoring and analytics platforms such as FortiAnalyzer, Panorama, and external site testing tools.
- Solid understanding of patch management and proactive maintenance practices for firewalls, network appliances, and security-related infrastructure.
- Strong command of network protocols : TCP / IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS, DNS, HTTP, SSL / TLS, SMTP, IGMP.
- Proficiency with network monitoring tools such as SolarWinds, PRTG, or similar platforms.
- Experience managing enterprise Wi-Fi systems, including Cisco Meraki and Aruba wireless solutions.
- Hands-on experience managing domain registrations, DNS configurations (GoDaddy, UltraDNS), and SSL certificate lifecycle management (issuance, installation, renewal).
- Working knowledge of cloud networking and integration with platforms like AWS and Microsoft Azure.
- Experience supporting virtualised environments, storage networking, and cloud-hosted services.
- Certification in CCNA (or equivalent) is required; other network / security certifications (e.g. Fortinet NSE, Palo Alto PCNSE) are a plus.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and documentation skills.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with global teams.
- Strong English communication skills, both verbal and written, with a customer-focused and solution-driven mindset.
Preferred Qualifications
- Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
- Any additional certification in AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Certified : Azure Administrator is an added advantage.
- Knowledge in software development concepts or scripting languages (HTML / CSS, C++, Java, Python, Ruby, Node.JS) is a plus.
- Familiarity with agile project methodologies and change control processes.