About VIRTUS
VIRTUS Data Centres is the UK’s fastest-growing data centre provider. We own, design, build, and operate some of the most energy-efficient, flexible, and secure data centres in Europe. In 2023, we announced our expansion into continental Europe, starting with Berlin and growing across the region. At VIRTUS, we aim to be a positive force in the fourth industrial revolution—delivering innovative solutions while staying rooted in our values: integrity, curiosity, commitment, and teamwork.
Job Summary
As a Network Architect at VIRTUS Data Centres, you will be instrumental in designing, implementing, and optimising secure, high-performance network infrastructures that underpin our mission-critical data centre operations and customer solutions. This role is focused on project delivery and operational excellence, with a strong emphasis on Cisco and Meraki technologies, as well as Azure cloud networking.
Duties and Responsibilities
The role includes but is not limited to the following:
Key Responsibilities:
* Design, configure, and validate network and security solutions including Cisco and Meraki platforms.
* Lead the deployment and optimisation of hybrid network architectures integrating Azure cloud connectivity with on-premises infrastructure.
* Troubleshoot and resolve complex network issues during project delivery and operational escalations.
* Facilitate technical discovery and design workshops with internal teams and third-party vendors.
* Oversee physical and remote installation of network and security hardware across data centre sites.
* Maintain physical and logical network design documentation to ensure consistency and compliance with all relevant industry standards.
* Ensure that all IT hardware and systems always have an appropriate support structure and be responsible for effective lifecycle management.
* Oversee the installation, configuration, and maintenance of network devices and services.
* Stay current with emerging technologies in data centre networking, automation, and cloud integration.
* Mentor and provide technical guidance to engineering and support teams.
* Resolve complex network issues and troubleshoot network systems.
* Ensure network security using Zero Trust architecture, micro-segmentation, secure remote access, and identity-based controls.
Required Skills and Experience:
* 10+ years of experience in network and security architecture, preferably within data centre or critical infrastructure environments.
* Deep expertise in Cisco routing and switching technologies, including BGP, OSPF, and MPLS.
* Hands-on experience with Cisco Meraki for wireless and security deployments.
* Strong understanding of Azure networking services (e.g., Virtual WAN, ExpressRoute, Network Security Groups).
* Familiarity with next-generation firewalls and network segmentation strategies.
* Relevant certifications such as CCNP, CCIE, or Meraki CMNA are highly desirable.
* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
* Strong time management, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.
* Any other reasonable requests made by your line manager.
Person Specification
Essential
• A self-motivated individual who is resourceful, with the ability to build working relationships quickly and effectively.
• Excellent organisational skills, the ability to influence and strong interpersonal skills.
• You must have good communication skills, both written and verbal, with an ability to articulate complex IT problems in a clear and methodical way and have experience dealing with difficult and multi-faceted problems.
• Pro-active, responsive – able to prioritise and deal with intense moments of high activity using excellent analytical/problem solving skills.
• Comfortable working through ambiguity, bringing clarity and control in a growing and dynamic environment.
• Participate in an on-call rota to support the VIRTUS environment 24x7 and ensure 100% availability.
Desirable
• Ideally educated to degree or equivalent standard, with membership of a recognised relevant professional body, and certification or qualifications from a relevant industry body.
• Relevant experience within a Data Centre or critical infrastructure environment.
• Professional certifications such as CCNP/CCIE, Azure Solutions Architect Expert, VMware VCP-DCV, or equivalent.
• Experience with TOGAF or other enterprise architecture frameworks.
• Experience integrating hybrid cloud environments and supporting enterprise software such as Microsoft 365, VMware, ServiceNow, and enterprise monitoring platforms.
Additional Information
In line with VIRTUS’ Vetting Policy, the successful applicant must be willing to undergo a BS7858 screening process.
VIRTUS is an equal opportunity employer. As part of our commitment to fight for equality, we work to ensure a fair and consistent interview process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment.
We reserve the right to close this post for applications should sufficient applications be received.
Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully
VIRTUS Data Centres does not accept unsolicited support from search firms for employment openings. CVs/resumes submitted by search firms to any VIRTUS employee without an active, written search agreement for a specified role will become the property of VIRTUS. No fees will be paid for candidates hired from agency submissions made without such an agreement. Existing agency partnerships must adhere to position-specific terms outlined in their agreements. Please refrain from calling or emailing regarding this matter.
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