Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Network Operations Manager to lead the stability, performance, and strategic evolution of our clients network infrastructure. This is a key leadership role responsible for both Business as Usual (BAU) operations and network transformation initiatives, ensuring secure, resilient and scalable connectivity across the organisation.
The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in modernising Legacy network environments, strengthening security posture, and supporting wider IT transformation programmes.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Management
* Own day-to-day network operations, uptime, and performance across all sites.
* Ensure high availability, incident response, and root cause analysis processes are robust and continuously improved.
* Manage monitoring, alerting and reporting of network performance and capacity.
* Oversee change management processes related to network infrastructure.
Security & Architecture
* Lead the transition from perimeter-based security models toward layered/Zero Trust network architectures.
* Oversee SSL decryption strategies, Firewall rulesets, segmentation and access controls.
* Collaborate with Security and Infrastructure teams to strengthen overall cyber resilience.
* Maintain compliance with internal security standards and industry best practices.
Transformation & Modernisation
* Drive modernisation of Legacy Cisco Firepower and associated network equipment.
* Contribute to broader IT transformation programmes and system upgrades.
* Evaluate new networking technologies, vendors, and solutions aligned with long-term strategy.
* Develop roadmaps for network scalability and resilience.
Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement
* Work closely with senior IT leadership and cross-functional teams to align network capabilities with business objectives.
* Manage third-party suppliers, MSPs and contractors where required.
* Provide technical leadership and mentorship to network engineers or support teams.
* Produce executive-level reports on performance, risks and improvement plans.
Skills & Experience Required
Technical
* Strong hands-on background in enterprise networking.
* Deep experience with Cisco technologies, particularly Firepower and Firewall management.
* Proven experience implementing Zero Trust/layered network security models.
* Knowledge of SSL Decryption, IDS/IPS, VPNs, segmentation and secure access controls.
* Experience with network monitoring and management tools.
* Understanding of cloud networking principles (Azure/AWS/Hybrid environments desirable).
Professional
* Demonstrated experience managing network operations in mid-to-large scale environments.
* Ability to balance BAU stability with transformation initiatives.
* Strong incident management and problem-solving capability.
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
* Experience managing suppliers or technical partners.
Desirable
* Certifications such as CCNP, CCIE, CISSP or equivalent.
* Exposure to SD-WAN, SASE or modern network security frameworks.
* Experience within regulated or security-sensitive industries.
Working Arrangements
* Predominantly remote, with occasional on-site presence required in Brierley Hill for key meetings, planning sessions or infrastructure reviews.
What Success Looks Like
* Improved network stability and reduced incident frequency.
* Clear roadmap and delivery of network modernisation initiatives.
* Strengthened security posture and adoption of layered/Zero Trust principles.
* Effective collaboration with wider IT and business stakeholders.
At Gleeson Recruitment Group, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. We are proud to be a disability confident employer.
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