Sr. Manager - Network Infrastructure (Hybrid in Chicago, IL)
The Sr. Manager - Network Infrastructure will provide expert leadership for the data center network, carrier neutral facilities, and cloud network connectivity functions. Collaborating closely with the Director of Network Infrastructure, this role will architect, implement, and manage a robust network strategy aligned with business objectives.
Key responsibilities include:
- Overseeing the planning, design, and execution of reliable network connectivity to data centers, private, and public cloud platforms, leveraging advanced software-defined networking solutions.
- Building and managing a high-performing team of network architects and engineers.
- Driving network standardization, automation, and optimization initiatives.
- Ensuring network alignment with security best practices.
- Delivering exceptional network performance, availability, and agility to support business operations.
The ideal candidate possesses a strong technical background in data center and cloud networking, coupled with proven leadership and problem-solving skills. Experience with Cisco, Palo Alto, and other industry-leading technologies is essential.
Responsibilities:
- End-to-end management of data center network health and operations.
- Network capacity planning and scaling.
- Development and maintenance of network processes and documentation.
- Close collaboration with internal customers to address network-related issues.
- Design, implementation, and operation of new network solutions.
- Enforcement of network standards and best practices.
- Network automation and orchestration.
- Driving network quality and reliability improvements.
- Complex network troubleshooting and problem-solving.
- Optical engineering and other relevant technologies.
- Strong customer focus and effective communication.
- Meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Technical leadership and effective multitasking.
- Directing a global team of network architects to develop and deliver next-generation network architectures.
- Promoting cost-effective network solutions.
- Effective communication with stakeholders.
- Development of network strategies, diagrams, and procedures.
- Additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Proven experience managing a team of senior network engineers.
- Advanced knowledge of data center platforms and technologies.
- Expertise in data center and cloud network architecture (WAN, LAN, VoIP, Collaboration, Security, Wireless).
- Proficiency in Cisco routing and switching technologies (ASR, Catalyst, Nexus).
- Experience with SDN/SD-WAN architectures.
- Knowledge of next-generation security devices (Palo Alto, Cisco ASA, Checkpoint).
- Familiarity with WAN acceleration technologies (Riverbed Steelhead).
- Experience with network management and monitoring tools (Cisco DNA, Cisco Prime, SolarWinds, NetBrain, LiveNX, Gigamon, Splunk, Panorama).
- Understanding of business and technology risk mitigation.
- Ability to develop and implement network architectures aligned with organizational goals.
- Proven leadership and team management skills.
- Infrastructure lifecycle management experience.
- Strong collaboration and communication skills.