Senior Network Architect (DV Cleared)

Network IT is recruiting for an experienced Senior Network Architect reporting directly to the CTO at our client, who is about to undergo enterprise network and datacentre transformation.
 
This is a key role leading the architecture for a major new programme, with responsibility for designing and governing secure, resilient, and scalable network solutions across complex enterprise environments.
 
You will own end-to-end network architecture across physical and logical domains, including LAN, WAN, SD-WAN, cloud networking, firewalls, load balancers, VPNs, and network security services.
 
Working closely with senior stakeholders, delivery teams, and suppliers, you will ensure solutions align with business objectives, security requirements, and enterprise architecture standards.
 
Please note this is a DV Cleared role. We can only accept applications from British Citizens.
 
Role: Senior Network Architect 
Duration: 9 Months
Rate: £790 per day
Status: Inside IR35
Location: Milton Keynes
Working Arrangement: Hybrid – 3 days onsite
 
Key Responsibilities

Lead architecture and design for large scale network and connectivity solutions.
Produce and govern high and low-level designs, ensuring alignment with enterprise architecture and security standards.
Provide technical leadership and guidance to architects, engineers, and project teams.
Review and assure complex technical solutions through governance and design authority processes.
Engage with business stakeholders, suppliers, and delivery teams to translate requirements into robust technical designs.
Drive network strategy, standards, automation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Support risk management, compliance, and operational assurance activities. 
Experience

Extensive experience in enterprise network architecture and design.
Strong expertise in E2E datacentre design and hybrid cloud networking.
Proven delivery of secure, resilient, and cost effective LAN, WAN, and cloud network solutions.
Deep technical knowledge of Cisco networking technologies (ACI, Nexus, Catalyst, ASR, Firepower/NGFW), VMware NSX, and Palo Alto Firewalls.
Experience designing and governing networking across VMware private cloud, Microsoft on-premises, and Azure and/or AWS environments.
Strong customer facing and stakeholder management skills.
Experience producing and reviewing architecture artefacts using TOGAF and recognised architecture frameworks.
Knowledge of UK Government security frameworks, NCSC guidance, Secure by Design, Zero Trust, and cloud security principles.
Experience with network automation, orchestration, and air-gapped or highly secure environments.
Relevant certifications such as CCNP, PCNSE, VCP-NV, Azure Network Engineer, AWS Solutions Architect, or equivalent experience.
DV Clearance
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed