Global Network Operations Manager

ZipRecruiter; Glasgow; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global technology company is seeking a Global Network Operations Manager to lead a team in Glasgow. This pivotal role involves strategic oversight of network operations, guiding SD-WAN initiatives, and collaborating with senior stakeholders. You will leverage your extensive networking expertise to ensure robust global infrastructure and drive continuous improvement in service delivery.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading globally distributed teams with strong vendor management.
• Deep technical understanding in SD-WAN deployment and enterprise networking.
• Ability to influence senior stakeholders, including at the CIO level.

Responsibilities

• Drive strategic decisions and provide technical leadership across a global enterprise network.
• Manage a skilled team of 8–9 Network Engineers across the UK.
• Lead SD-WAN deployment and define a global 24×7 network support model.

Skills

SD-WAN design

Enterprise networking

Cisco technologies

Vendor management

Network automation

Education

CCNP or CCIE certification

NSE4/7 certification

Tools

SolarWinds

PRTG

Ansible

Terraform

Job description

Job Description

Glasgow (Hybrid – 3 days in office / 2 days from home)

Full-Time | 37.5 hrs/week | Flexibility required to support global teams

Ready to take the lead in shaping the future of global network infrastructure?

Excellent opportunity for a high-calibre, forward-thinking Global Network Operations Manager to join a global technology team at a pivotal moment of transformation.

This newly created role offers the chance to lead a high-performing, globally distributed team of network professionals across the UK and other international regions, and to drive a strategic SD-WAN rollout.

Reporting to the Head of Platforms, you'll serve as both a technical authority and people-focused leader, ensuring the global network is robust, efficient, and fit for the future.

Your Role

As Network Manager, you will:

• Drive strategic decisions and provide technical leadership across a global enterprise network.
• Manage a skilled team of 8–9 Network Engineers based across the UK and regional offices worldwide.
• Lead the deployment and implementation of SD-WAN, with specific experience in HPE SD-WAN technology.
• Work closely with senior stakeholders, including engagement at CIO level, to align network strategy with wider business goals.
• Balance day-to-day operational excellence with transformative project delivery in a fast-paced environment.
• Define and implement a global 24×7 network support model using a mix of internal and third-party resources.

What You’ll Bring

While this is not a hands-on role, you will bring deep technical understanding to guide decisions and lead delivery with authority.

Core Experience

• Proven experience in SD-WAN design, deployment, and migration across global organisations.
• Solid enterprise networking background across multi-site LANs/WANs.
• Proficiency in Cisco technologies (Nexus 3K/9K, BGP, OSPF, EIGRP).
• Experience with firewalls (Palo Alto, Fortinet), VPNs, MPLS, and wireless (Aruba).
• Knowledge of cloud networking in platforms such as Azure, AWS, and GCP.
• Hands-on familiarity with monitoring tools such as SolarWinds, PRTG, and F5.
• Strong vendor management skills, including defining statements of work, negotiating SLAs, and ensuring consistent service quality.
• Experience managing third-party service providers and maintaining high service standards.

Leadership & Strategy

• Proven experience leading globally distributed teams, including line management and mentoring.
• Ability to influence and communicate effectively with senior stakeholders up to CIO level.
• Strategic thinker with a track record in IT service improvement initiatives.
• Experience defining and delivering 24×7 support models.

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Certifications: CCNP, CCIE, PCNSE, NSE4/7, or similar.
• Familiarity with Zero Trust, ZTNA, and SASE.
• Experience with network automation/IaC (Ansible, Terraform, Python).
• Understanding of GDPR, Cyber Essentials, ITSM/ITIL frameworks.

Why This Role?

This is your opportunity to shape the future of a global network strategy, lead transformational projects, and influence at the highest levels. You'll help drive innovation in SD-WAN, improve resilience and performance, and bring automation and intelligence to a modernised, future-ready network.

This isn’t just about keeping the lights on — it’s about setting the direction for where their network goes next.

Location & Working Style

Based in Glasgow, operating a hybrid model (3 days in the office, 2 days remote). Standard UK hours, but flexibility is expected to collaborate with global regions.

Apply now to build a smarter, faster, and more secure global network.