Deputy Head of Networks and Data Centers

We are seeking an experienced and highly technical Deputy Head of Networks and Data Centers to join our team in London. This senior role will play a pivotal part in managing and coordinating a global team of engineers, ensuring the seamless operation, optimization, and security of our network and data center infrastructure across multiple regions. The successful candidate will act as the right-hand to the Global Head of Networks and Data Centers, contributing to strategic planning, technical leadership, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Leadership

• Provide expert technical guidance and oversight for the design, implementation, and maintenance of global network and data center infrastructure.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts for complex network and data center issues, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal performance.
• Stay ahead of emerging technologies and trends in networking, cloud computing, and data center management to drive innovation and efficiency.
• Act as the subject matter expert in advanced routing protocols, including BGP, EVPN, and other related technologies.

Team Coordination

• Coordinate and manage a global team of highly skilled network and data center engineers, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and priorities.
• Foster collaboration across regional teams, ensuring consistent standards, processes, and best practices are followed.
• Mentor and develop engineering talent, promoting a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence.

Strategic Planning

• Support the Global Head of Networks and Data Centers in developing and executing the global strategy for network and data center operations.
• Contribute to capacity planning, scalability initiatives, and disaster recovery strategies to ensure future-proof infrastructure.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across IT, security, and business units to align infrastructure goals with organizational objectives.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee the monitoring, optimization, and security of global network and data center systems, ensuring high availability and reliability.
• Manage vendor relationships and contracts for hardware, software, and services related to networks and data centers.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and internal policies.

Required Skills And Experience

Technical Expertise

• Proven experience in designing, implementing, and managing large-scale network and data center infrastructure.
• Expert-level knowledge of BGP and related routing technologies, including EVPN, MPLS, and other advanced protocols.
• Deep knowledge of networking hardware (e.g., routers, switches, firewalls) and cloud technologies.
• Expertise in virtualization, storage solutions, and disaster recovery planning.
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles and practices related to networks and data centers.
• Certifications:
• CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) – Highly desirable.
• JNCIE (Juniper Networks Certified Internet Expert) – Highly desirable.

Leadership and Coordination

• Demonstrated ability to lead and coordinate global teams in a fast-paced, technical environment.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.

Experience And Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in network and data center management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Experience working in a global organization with distributed teams.

Personal Attributes

• Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach to problem-solving.
• Collaborative leader who thrives in a team-oriented environment.
• Passionate about technology and innovation, with a commitment to staying ahead of industry trends.
• Strong attention to detail and a focus on delivering high-quality results.