Network Solutions Architect

**About the Role**:
This role demands a deep understanding of cloud environments, networking protocols, and security practices. The Cloud Networking SME will work closely with our engineering, operations, and security teams to provide expert guidance and support.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- **Strategic Planning & Design**:
- Develop and execute strategies for transforming the company’s cloud networking infrastructure offerings to support digital transformation initiatives.
- Design scalable, resilient, and secure cloud network architectures that align with business objectives and technological advancements.
- Develop security protocols and procedures for on-premise, cloud, and hybrid environments.
- Ensure the integration of security principles into network and IT infrastructure designs.
- **Implementation & Integration**:
- Lead the deployment and integration of new cloud networking technologies and solutions projects.
- Ensure smooth migration from traditional networking environments to modern cloud-based systems, minimizing downtime and disruptions.
- Lead the deployment of network security solutions, including firewalls, proxies, and secure access mechanisms.
- Oversee the configuration and maintenance of security appliances and tools.
- Implement and monitor network segmentation to reduce attack surfaces.
- **Technology Evaluation & Selection**:
- Evaluate emerging cloud networking technologies and vendors to identify the best solutions to be offered for customers.
- Provide recommendations for tools, platforms, and practices that will enhance cloud network performance and security.
- **Architecture & Design**:
- Design and architect cloud networking solutions that meet the company's requirements for performance, scalability, and security.
- Develop and implement best practices for cloud networking, including VPC, VPN, load balancing, and inter-region networking.
- **Implementation & Management**:
- Deploy and manage network infrastructure in cloud environments such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
- Monitor network performance and troubleshoot issues to ensure high availability and reliability.
- Optimize network configurations to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
- **Security & Compliance**:
- Implement network security measures, including firewalls, security groups, and network access control lists (ACLs).
- Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS).
- Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, frameworks, and standards (e.g., PCI DSS, GDPR, NIST, ISO 27001).
- Develop and enforce security policies, procedures, and standards.
- Assist with internal and external security audits
- **Collaboration & Support**:
- Work closely with DevOps, development, and security teams to integrate cloud networking solutions into the overall infrastructure.
- Provide technical leadership and mentoring to junior network engineers and other team members.
- Collaborate with vendors and third-party service providers to evaluate and implement new technologies.
- **Documentation & Reporting**:
- Maintain comprehensive documentation of network configurations, policies, and procedures.
- Prepare and present reports on network performance, security incidents, and compliance status.

**Requirements**:

- ** Education**:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
- **Experience**:
- 10+ years of experience in network engineering and architecture, with a significant focus on cloud networking.
- Proven track record of leading large-scale cloud network transformation projects.
- **Technical Skills**:
- Deep knowledge of cloud networking concepts and technologies (VPC, VPN, Direct Connect, ExpressRoute, etc.).
- Extensive experience with major cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
- Strong understanding of network security principles and practices within cloud environments.
- Deep understanding of networking concepts and protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, BGP, etc.).
- Proficiency in network security practices and tools (firewalls, IDS/IPS, security groups).
- In-depth knowledge of network protocols, architectures, and security technologies.
- Expertise with security appliances such as firewalls (e.g., Palo Alto, Fortinet, or Cisco), VPNs, and IDS/IPS.
- Familiarity with automation and scripting (Terraform, Ansible, Python, etc.).
- **Certifications**:
- Relevant certifications such as AWS Certified Advanced Networking, Azure Network Engineer Associate, or equivalent are highly desirable.
- Certifications such as CISSP, CCSP, CISM, or relevant Cisco certifications (e.g., CCIE Security) are preferred.

**Key Competencies**:

- Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to lead and mentor a team of IT professionals.
- Strong project management and organizational skills.
- Adaptability and willingness to embrace change.
- Ability to work i