Deputy Chief Network Officer

Job Summary:

The Deputy Chief Networking Officer (DCIO) is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and maintenance of the organization's network infrastructure. Working closely with the CIO, the DCIO drives strategic initiatives to ensure optimal network performance, security, scalability, and alignment with organizational goals. This role demands extensive experience in networking technologies, strong leadership capabilities, and a forward-thinking approach to emerging network trends.

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the CIO to develop and execute networking strategies aligned with the IT roadmap.
• Design, implement, and maintain LAN, WAN, VPN, and cloud-based network infrastructures.
• Evaluate and deploy new networking technologies to enhance performance and security.
• Ensure continuous network operations with high uptime and availability.
• Monitor network performance, troubleshoot issues, and conduct regular maintenance.
• Implement and enforce network security protocols, conduct audits, and manage incident responses.
• Optimize network configurations for efficiency, load balancing, and redundancy.
• Develop and test disaster recovery and business continuity plans.
• Research, evaluate, and select networking vendors; negotiate contracts and manage vendor relationships.
• Monitor vendor performance and ensure compliance with service agreements.
• Manage networking budgets including cost analysis, forecasting, and resource allocation.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and organizational policies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to align network initiatives with business needs.
• Lead process improvements and leverage technology to enhance network operations.
• Prepare reports on network performance, budget status, and vendor management for senior leadership.

Required Skills & Certifications:

• Network Systems Certification such as JNCIP or equivalent with at least 5 years of relevant work experience.
• Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Communications, Information Technology, or a related field.
• 10 to 15 years of infrastructure and data center experience.
• Minimum 3 years of leadership experience managing large, cross-functional teams or projects.
• At least 5 years of managerial or supervisory experience in data center planning, development, or operations.
• Strong knowledge of network design, security protocols, and performance optimization.

Preferred Skills & Certifications:

• Experience with cloud networking and emerging network technologies.
• Advanced certifications in networking or cybersecurity.
• Proven ability to negotiate contracts and manage vendor relationships effectively.
• Experience with disaster recovery planning and business continuity strategies.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills for budget and performance management.

Special Considerations:

• Must be capable of managing high-stakes network security incidents and ensuring rapid incident response.
• Ability to work under pressure to maintain network uptime and performance.
• May require occasional on-call availability for network emergencies.
• Compliance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements is mandatory.

Scheduling:

• Full-time position with standard business hours.
• Flexibility may be required for network upgrades, maintenance, or emergency response outside normal hours.