Director of Network Strategy and Engineering (Remote)

VanRath; Belfast; Remote; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A technology consulting firm is seeking a Platform Director - Networks to lead their global network infrastructure. In this senior role, you will define strategy and oversee service delivery, focusing on SD-WAN, Cloud WAN, and network security. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of networking experience and a strong telecommunications background. This opportunity allows you to drive significant transformations in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• 10+ years' experience in networking, including service delivery in an MSP environment.
• Strong track record of leading and developing global, matrix-managed teams.
• Proven experience with SD-WAN, Cloud WAN, and MPLS migration projects.
• Deep knowledge of network security principles and practices.
• Hands-on expertise with Cisco, Juniper, Palo Alto, and AWS networking technologies.
• Strong Telco background and vendor management experience.
• Excellent leadership, stakeholder management, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead a large, globally distributed networking team, providing services to internal and external customers.
• Define and deliver the network strategy and roadmap, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Oversee the design and implementation of SD-WAN and Cloud WAN solutions.
• Drive the migration of traditional MPLS WAN to modern cloud-based architectures.
• Maintain robust network security across all designs and operations.
• Build and manage relationships with key vendors and Telco providers.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and integrate them into services.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-performing, future-ready networks.

Skills

SD-WAN

Cloud WAN

Networking

Network security

Vendor management

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Education

High-level certifications (CCIE, CCDE)

Tools

Cisco

Juniper

Palo Alto

AWS

Job description

Our client is looking for a Platform Director - Networks to lead the future of their global network infrastructure. This is a senior leadership role for an experienced network professional with a strong background in SD-WAN, Cloud WAN, and migration from MPLS to cloud-based solutions.

As the leader of a global networking team, you'll define strategy, shape the technology roadmap, and oversee delivery of cutting-edge networking services. You'll work closely with technology partners and internal stakeholders to ensure solutions are secure, resilient, and aligned with business goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a large, globally distributed networking team, providing services to internal and external customers.

• Define and deliver the network strategy and roadmap, ensuring alignment with business objectives.

• Oversee the design and implementation of SD-WAN and Cloud WAN solutions.

• Drive the migration of traditional MPLS WAN to modern cloud-based architectures.

• Maintain robust network security across all designs and operations.

• Build and manage relationships with key vendors and Telco providers.

• Evaluate emerging technologies (Cisco, Juniper, Palo Alto, AWS) and integrate them into services.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-performing, future-ready networks.

What We're Looking For

• 10+ years' experience in networking, including service delivery in an MSP environment.

• Strong track record of leading and developing global, matrix-managed teams.

• Proven experience with SD-WAN, Cloud WAN, and MPLS migration projects.

• Deep knowledge of network security principles and practices.

• Hands-on expertise with Cisco, Juniper, Palo Alto, and AWS networking technologies.

• Strong Telco background and vendor management experience.

• High-level certifications (e.g. CCIE, CCDE) or equivalent expertise.

• Excellent leadership, stakeholder management, and communication skills.

• Eligible for SC clearance (or equivalent).

Why Join

This is a senior opportunity to shape the future of global networking services in a complex, fast-moving environment. You'll lead large-scale transformations, work with cutting-edge cloud technologies, and have a direct impact on how networking enables business success.