Enterprise Network Security Expert

We are seeking a highly skilled Network Operations Manager to lead and manage our enterprise-wide IT and OT network infrastructure. This role demands an experienced professional with 12-15 years of experience in network operations, demonstrating expertise in managing complex network environments, leading technical teams, and ensuring optimal network performance and security.

The ideal candidate will play a key role in managing daily operations, overseeing major transformation projects, and driving secure connectivity across both corporate and industrial environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage enterprise-wide IT and OT network operations, including LAN, WAN, SD-WAN, VPN, Wireless, Internet, MPLS, and data centre connectivity.
• Ensure 24/7 network availability, reliability, and performance through proactive monitoring, diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
• Implement and manage macro and micro segmentation strategies to enhance network security posture across IT and OT domains.

Project & Transformation Leadership:

• Lead technical delivery and end-to-end execution of network transformation and expansion projects (e.g., campus upgrades, cloud migrations, plant network segmentation, OT segmentation, new initiative roll-out, etc.).
• Coordinate with cross-functional IT/OT teams to ensure alignment with business objectives and compliance requirements.
• Own project lifecycle from requirement gathering and solutioning to handover and documentation.

Vendor & SLA Management:

• Manage relationships with OEMs, service providers, and system integrators to ensure optimal service delivery.
• Negotiate and monitor SLAs, ensure issue escalation procedures are followed, and drive continuous improvement with vendors.
• Coordinate with external vendors and service providers to procure network equipment and services, negotiating contracts and managing relationships.

Infrastructure Governance & Compliance:

• Establish and enforce network policies, standards, and compliance frameworks (ISO 27001, GxP, NIST, etc.).
• Develop and enforce network security policies and procedures to safeguard organizational data and comply with industry regulations.
• Coordinate periodic audits, risk assessments, and remediation's to meet regulatory and cybersecurity mandates.
• Ensure full adherence to compliance requirements for data privacy, pharma/life sciences, or regulated industrial operations.

Security & Segmentation:

• Implement network security controls including firewalls, NAC, IDS/IPS, and segmentation (macro & micro) between IT/OT zones.
• Collaborate with the cybersecurity team to align on zero-trust architecture and secure data flows across environments.

Team Leadership, Knowledge Management & Resource Allocation:

• Lead and mentor a team of network engineers and analysts (L1-L3).
• Develop SOPs, knowledge base articles, and ensure robust documentation for operational continuity.
• Prepare and manage the network operations budget, ensuring cost-effective utilization of resources.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.
• CCNP / CCIE certification.
• ITIL v4 Foundation or Intermediate certification.
• PMP / PRINCE2 (optional for project oversight).
• 10-12 years of experience in network operations, with 3-5 years in leadership or managerial role.
• Strong expertise in enterprise networking (Cisco, Juniper, Fortinet, Palo Alto, etc.).
• Hands-on knowledge of SD-WAN, NAC, micro/macro segmentation, and hybrid cloud networks (AWS/Azure).
• Familiarity with OT protocols and systems (e.g., SCADA, PLC, Modbus) and secure IT/OT integration.
• Proven experience in vendor/SLA governance, audit readiness, and compliance frameworks.
• Excellent understanding of ITIL, network governance, and enterprise change control processes.