Network Operations Manager

Hi,We are having an opening for Network Operations Manager at our Mumbai location.Job Summary :We are looking for a highly skilled and strategic Network Operations Manager to lead and manage our enterprise-wide IT and OT network infrastructure. The role demands an experienced professional with 12-15 years experience in network operations, demonstrating expertise in managing complex network environments, leading technical teams, and ensuring optimal network performance and security, network operations, IT/OT convergence, vendor and SLA governance, and segmentation strategies to ensure security, availability, and scalability of network services.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.Areas Of Responsibility :Network Operations & Monitoring- 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 (L1L3).- 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.Educational Qualification : Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related fieldSpecific Certification :- CCNP / CCIE- ITIL v4 Foundation or Intermediate- PMP / PRINCE2 (optional for project oversight)Experience : 10-12 years of experience in network operations, with 3-5 years in leadership or managerial role- Skill (Functional & Behavioural): 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