Key Responsibilities :
- Lead and manage Data Center Network and Security operations with a focus on Cisco ACI, Nexus Switching, Firewall (FortiGate / Checkpoint) technologies.
- Design, implement, and maintain routing and switching environments with protocols such as BGP, OSPF, VXLAN, MP-BGP EVPN, and VPC.
- Handle secure network communications including IPSec, L2L VPN, and Remote Access VPN configurations and support.
- Drive architecture-level discussions with clients, provide expert advice, and support design decisions.
- Lead a team of L1 / L2 engineers, including planning shift rosters, aligning workloads, and ensuring continuous operations.
- Proactively manage high severity incidents, lead root cause analysis (RCA), and maintain compliance with SLAs.
- Ensure network and security policies, compliance standards, and best practices are consistently applied across all environments.
- Oversee operations in data centers housing over 500+ network and security components.
- Deliver multiple simultaneous IT projects within set deadlines with minimal supervision.
- Maintain high standards in documentation, communication, and stakeholder reporting.
Required Skills & Experience :
12 -16 years of experience in Data Center Network and Security design, support, and implementation.At least 8+ years of experience in core routing, switching, MPLS, and Firewall technologies.Deep hands-on expertise in :1. Cisco ACI
2. Cisco Nexus Series
3. FortiGate and Checkpoint Firewalls
Strong knowledge of network protocols : BGP, OSPF, VXLAN, EVPN, VPC.Experience working across global, regional, and local network infrastructure environments.Ability to handle complex projects, client communications, and team leadership effectively.Must be CCNP certified (Cisco Certified Network Professional).Preferred Qualities :
Proactive, solution-oriented mindset with a high attention to detail.Strong leadership capabilities, including experience leading critical incident bridges and escalations.Excellent verbal and written communication skills.Ability to manage workload distribution across shifts in a 24 / 7 environment.Certifications :
CCNP Certification Mandatory(Additional certifications in ACI, Fortinet, or Checkpoint are a plus)(ref : hirist.tech)