Senior Network Architect

ZipRecruiter; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 95,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading managed services provider seeks a Network Architect to shape technical direction and influence enterprise-level decisions. This hybrid position requires strong technical leadership in networking and is primarily based in North West England. The ideal candidate has expertise in Cisco ACI, firewall technologies, and networking protocols. Apply today to advance your architecture career.

Benefits

Hybrid Working with client-site travel reimbursed

Access to extensive learning opportunities

Career growth in a supportive environment

Qualifications

• Strong experience as a Network Domain Architect in a Managed Services environment.
• Demonstrated technical leadership in complex accounts.
• Strong stakeholder and client relationship skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design and strategy as the Service Line Design Authority.
• Own technical decision-making and align with client standards.
• Act as a technical mentor and provide strategic direction.

Skills

Cisco ACI

Firewall Technologies

Enterprise Wi-Fi

Networking Protocols

Job description

Job Description

Network Architect – Operational Design Authority & Strategy

North West England (with regular travel to Barrow)

Permanent | £95,000–£100,000 + 5% Variable Pay

SC Cleared or Eligible for SC Clearance Required

The Offer

• Base Salary: £95,000–£100,000
• Additional Variable Pay: 5%
• Hybrid Working with client-site travel reimbursed
• Training & Development: Access to extensive learning opportunities and industry certifications
• Career Growth: Work with a high-calibre team in a supportive, forward-thinking environment
• Interview Process: 2 stages (technical + stakeholder/culture fit)

About the Role

We’re looking for a Network Domain Architect to join a dynamic and innovative Managed Services organisation. In this strategic role, you'll act as the Design Authority for a key service line within the networking domain. You’ll be leading from the front, shaping technical direction, influencing enterprise-level decisions, and becoming a trusted advisor to clients undergoing digital transformation.

This is a hybrid position: primarily based in the North West (linked to the nearest regional office), with up to 3 days per week expected onsite in Barrow – travel expenses fully covered.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design and strategy as the Service Line Design Authority
• Own technical decision-making and ensure alignment with client and internal standards
• Act as a technical mentor and provide strategic direction across complex managed services environments
• Build and maintain relationships with key internal and client stakeholders
• Support pre-sales, transitions, and major bid activities with expert-level input

Technical Skills & Experience

We're looking for someone with strong experience as a Network Domain Architect in a Managed Services environment, who can demonstrate technical leadership across the following:

Core Expertise Required:

• Cisco ACI – multi-site and multi-pod software-defined networking
• Firewall Technologies – Palo Alto, Checkpoint, Cisco Firepower, Cisco ASA & AnyConnect Remote Access
• Enterprise Wi-Fi – Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers or equivalent
• Networking Protocols – IPSEC, HSRP, BGP, OSPF, EIGRP

You'll also bring:

• Experience leading technical strategy and architecture in large, complex accounts
• Strong stakeholder and client relationship skills
• Awareness of commercial and contractual dynamics in managed services
• A proactive, consultative mindset, and a passion for innovation and continuous improvement

Ready to Design the Future of Networks?

If you're a seasoned Network Architect ready to play a pivotal role in shaping cutting-edge network solutions for mission-critical environments, we want to hear from you.

Apply today and take the next step in your architecture career.