Manager: Network Infrastructure and Services at Stellenbosch University

Duties   
Project and Maintenance Funding:       

• Negotiating and securing funds for network upgrades and maintenance projects;       
• Identifying and budgeting projects for network upgrades and maintenance;       
• Managing network projects cost effectively within budget.

Network Infrastructure Management:       

• Designing, implementing, and maintaining the organisation's network infrastructure to ensure high availability, scalability, and security;       
• Evaluating and recommending new technologies, hardware, and software solutions to enhance network performance and capabilities;       
• Managing network configuration, including routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, and other networking components;       
• Maintaining SU Network Infrastructure Specification, and managing design, installations and deviations of network infrastructure projects accordingly.

Network Connectivity:       

• Managing cloud services and service providers, site to site connections, security and monitoring;       
• Managing TENET internet links and service providers;       
• Managing secure remote access for SU staff, students and associates.

Campus Unified Communication and Collaboration:       

• Managing, installing and maintaining Open Scape Voice contracts and system and Telkom phone lines;       
• Managing, installing and maintaining Microsoft Teams for voice services.

Network Services Management:       

• Overseeing the deployment and management of network services such as DNS, DHCP, VPN, and VoIP;       
• Ensuring the proper functioning of network-related services and troubleshooting issues as they arise;       
• Managing campus network connections and access to cloud services.

Network Security:       

• Developing and enforcing network security policies and procedures to safeguard sensitive data and prevent unauthorised access;       
• Managing and designing network firewalls (on-prem and cloud), including network layout and configuration according to current security standards and policies;       
• Staying updated on emerging security threats and implementing appropriate measures to mitigate risks.

Monitoring and Optimisation:       

• Implementing monitoring tools to proactively identify and address network performance issues;       
• Analysing network traffic patterns and optimising network configurations to enhance performance and efficiency.

Documentation and Reporting:         

• Maintaining accurate documentation of network architecture, configurations, and changes;         
• Generating regular reports on network performance, uptime, and security incidents for management review.

Project Management:         

• Planning and executing network infrastructure projects, such as upgrades, migrations, and expansions;         
• Defining project scope, objectives, timelines, and resource requirements;         
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure successful project delivery.

Team Leadership:         

• Managing all staff appointments in the Department;         
• Managing all job descriptions, key performance areas and performance evaluations for staff in the Department;         
• Leading and mentoring a team of network engineers and technicians, providing guidance, performance feedback, and professional development opportunities;        
• Delegating tasks effectively, managing workloads, and ensuring the team's productivity and collaboration.

Vendor and Stakeholder Management:         

• Managing tenders for supply, installation and maintenance of network infrastructure and services according to the procurement policies of the SU;         
• Negotiating and managing SLA's with suppliers of network equipment and services;         
• Collaborating with vendors to procure networking equipment and services, ensuring the best value and quality;         
• Liaising with internal stakeholders to understand business requirements and aligning network strategies accordingly.

Data Centres Infrastructure:       

• Managing SU data centres' infrastructure on campus, including Tygerberg and DR site;         
• Managing and monitoring power, generator, UPS, aircon, fire and alarm systems in data centres;         
• Managing SLAs with our Facilities Management Division for electricity, UPS, cooling, alarms, etc.;         
• Managing space and power allocation in data centres;         
• Managing network and internet services in data centres.

Job Requirements    

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field (a master's degree is preferred);         
• Eight years' experience in network engineering, financial planning, and leading and managing a team of network professionals;         
• Network certifications like Cisco CCNP, or Huawei Certified ICT Professional (HCIP), or equivalent;         
• Network Cloud certification for services such as AWS, Azure, Google, or similar;         
• Strong knowledge of networking protocols, technologies, and best practices;         
• Experience with network security principles and practices;         
• Experience in cloud network setup, integration and management;         
• Experience in relevant vendor and stakeholder management;         
• Project management certifications and five years' experience, including planning, execution, and risk management;         
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.