Senior Business Systems Architect - Network

Job Introduction

Exciting news! Our growing IT team is looking for an experienced Senior Business Systems Architect - Network to fill a crucial role in planning the future development of our WAN and LAN network environments. As the network/WAN/LAN/Wifi subject matter expert, you will work closely with partners, operational support, and specialist delivery teams to ensure seamless operations and optimal performance of all business connectivity.

This role is critical to our transformation of the network to a scalable cloud-first environment, with a drive to adopt new technologies as the business demands. You will assess current and future state connectivity options and work with the business to determine the best fit.

Based at Junction 41 in Wakefield, with free parking and a flexible, hybrid way of working, this is a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact in our team. Colleagues are required to work in the office for a minimum of 1-2 days per week, with the expectation of additional attendance when needed.

Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to be a part of our exciting future plans. Apply now and become a key player in our mission to enhance our network's robustness and resiliency. #networkarchitect #ITjobs #businessconnectivity #cloudfirst #hiring

Role Responsibility

• To be the voice of expertise on network design and strategy across the organisation.  
• Take ownership for the design of new network solution considering how it will touch all components of the business from stores to offices through to warehouses and design studios. 
• Work closely with 3rd party providers and Internet Service Providers to ensure the stability of the networks. Attending regular service delivery meetings as required to understand challenges and raise concerns as they are identified. 
• Work closely with and interact with internal stakeholders up to C-Suite level. Ability to translate technical aspects to non-technical team members as well as the day-to-day interactions with support partners.  
• Enable the business to drive innovation and to guide the transformation of the various network environments across the business in line with the strategic plan.  
• The ability to provide forward-thinking solutions that remain complaint and secure. 
• Configure and install network devices, switches, firewalls, and routers, ensuring that best practise is adhered to. 
• Monitor network performance and integrity. 
• Resolve issues tiers of support have escalated by troubleshooting cloud and local infrastructure. 
• Automate tasks and monitor their effectiveness. 
• Mentor team members on technical issues. 
• Create, oversee, and test security measures (e.g. penetration and network access controls) 

The Ideal Candidate

• Deep technical knowledge of networks/WAN/LAN/WIFI 
• Strong technical knowledge of network security and hardening techniques. 
• Solid understanding of OSI or TCP/IP model 
• Have delivered enterprise level network implementations. 
• Delivery and knowledge of technical projects across multiple locations 
• Change and Transformation experience. 
• Excellent Communication skills and able to work with stakeholders up to C-Suite level. 
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to analyse complex issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions. 
• Degree in Computer Science (or related subject) 
• CCNP or higher (CCIE and/or CISSP) with a deep understanding of networking protocols and the technology that support this. 

About the Company

Card Factory is the UK's leading specialist retailer of greeting cards, dressings, and gifts with over one thousand stores across the UK and Ireland.? In 2020 we launched our exciting 5-year business strategy including our vision of becoming a true Omni-channel retailer.? This strategy sees significant investment into our colleagues across the business creating multiple opportunities to join a fast-paced environment and be part of our exciting journey.? 

In return, we offer a wide range of benefits to support your physical, mental, and financial well-being.

Benefits

• 25% Card Factory colleague discount in-store and online
• Save As You Earn scheme
• Financial Wellbeing Support       
  • Financial Education Tools
  • Salary Advance
• Seasonal incentive schemes
• Retail Management Apprenticeship Programmes with local providers with access to a virtual internal network for learning together
• Discounted gym membership and mobile phone contracts
• Discounts across 100's of UK retailers
• Employee Assistance Programme - access to tools to support mental, physical, and financial wellbeing
• Enhanced Family leave