Network Operations Lead

ofi; Amsterdam; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Attractive salary

Discretionary Bonus scheme

Flexible working hours

Travel allowance

Company pension scheme

Contribution to collective health insurance

Company Fitness

Social and sportive company events

Collective insurances

Job summary

A leading agri-business organization in Amsterdam is seeking a Network Operations Lead to oversee infrastructure solutions and collaborate with IT teams. The role demands extensive experience in IT leadership and hands-on technical expertise in cloud platforms and security technologies. Candidates should possess strong communication skills and the ability to manage complex IT networks for optimal performance. This position offers flexible working hours and various employee benefits.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of IT leadership experience including 4 years in a global enterprise.
• Proven ability in implementing IT networks and solutions.
• Hands-on experience with security technologies and cloud platforms.

Responsibilities

• Guide infrastructure solutions and architecture.
• Oversee daily operations of core infrastructure.
• Lead IT projects ensuring delivery within scope and budget.

Skills

Strategic planning

Technical expertise

Communication

Collaboration

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent

Tools

Azure

AWS

Palo Alto

FortiGate

Zscaler

Job description

Overview

ofi Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands

The Network Operations Lead is responsible for guiding infrastructure solutions, architecture, and operational support for business processes. This role collaborates closely with cross-functional IT teams to assess, plan, and implement secure and reliable infrastructure solutions. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong communication, technical expertise, strategic planning, and a continuous improvement mindset.

We are seeking a collaborative and analytical professional who thrives in dynamic environments and is committed to delivering high-quality IT services that support business goals.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and technical guidance on infrastructure solutions and architecture to support business operations.
• Oversee daily operations of core infrastructure and platforms, including data and voice networks, firewalls, and cloud-based security tools such as Zscaler.
• Partner with the IT Security team to manage network vulnerabilities, software updates, and patching processes.
• Lead and participate in IT projects, ensuring delivery within scope, budget, and in alignment with governance standards.
• Maintain and develop technical documentation and standards for network infrastructure and complex solutions.
• Collaborate with managed service providers to ensure effective day-to-day support and drive continuous improvement.
• Monitor critical IT systems to enhance user satisfaction through timely issue resolution.
• Serve as a leadership point of escalation for regional IT infrastructure services.
• Engage with regional business and IT teams to understand requirements, identify gaps, and recommend improvements.
• Research and evaluate emerging technologies and vendors to enhance stability and cost efficiency.
• Support IT leadership in budgeting and manage expenses and projects within approved guidelines.
• Ensure timely patching and maintenance of IT systems including servers, routers, firewalls, and switches.
• Facilitate regular meetings to align on strategic goals and track progress.
• Foster effective communication across IT teams and departments to support collaboration and success.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Business Administration, or equivalent professional experience.
• 10+ years of IT leadership experience, including at least 4 years in a large, diverse global enterprise.
• Proven ability to implement and support IT networks and solutions in fast-paced environments, preferably in manufacturing.
• Experience with cloud platforms such as Azure or AWS, including network service implementation and integration.
• Strong understanding of TCP/IP, Ethernet networks (e.g., VLANs, VPN, VoIP, LAN/WAN), and network hardware (switches, routers, wireless access points).
• Proficiency in DNS, DHCP, Terminal Services, File Servers, Print Management, Group Policy, and routing protocols.
• Hands-on experience with security technologies such as firewalls (e.g., Palo Alto, FortiGate), IDS/IPS systems, and SASE solutions like Zscaler ZIA/ZPA.
• Familiarity with MPLS, SDWAN, Site-to-Site VPNs, and IT/OT separation strategies.
• Knowledge of virtualization technologies such as VMware and Nutanix.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present technical information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated adaptability, initiative, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent planning, prioritization, and resource management skills.
• Willingness to travel as required by the business.

We Offer

By joining ofi you'll become part of one of the most fast-growing and sustainable organizations in food- and agri business. You'll get the responsibilities that fit you and the job, and lots of room for initiative in an open and informal organisation.

Conditions

• Attractive salary;
• Discretionary Bonus scheme;
• Flexible working hours
• Travel allowance;
• Company pension scheme;
• Contribution to collective health insurance;
• Company Fitness;
• Social and sportive company events;
• Collective insurances;

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Information Technology

Industries

• Computer and Network Security
• Food and Beverage Manufacturing
• Hospitals and Health Care