Lead Network Architect (Ref: 195970)

Contact - charlie.day@forsythbarnes.com

Lead Network Architect

Dubai, UAE

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Lead Network Architect to define and own the end-to-end network architecture for a large-scale, multi-country enterprise environment. This is a strategic architecture leadership role focused on setting vision, standards, and governance across a highly distributed, cloud-connected network estate spanning retail, logistics, corporate, and digital platforms.

You will act as the design authority, shaping a secure, scalable, and resilient network foundation that enables business growth, operational excellence, and high-quality customer and colleague experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Own and continuously evolve the global network architecture strategy and roadmap

Define and maintain the target-state architecture aligned to business and technology strategy

Act as the design authority for all network architecture decisions and transformations

Define and enforce standardised architecture across WAN/SD-WAN, internet edge, LAN, Wi-Fi, segmentation, and cloud/hybrid connectivity

Embed security-by-design principles including Zero Trust, segmentation, and secure access models

Establish and enforce architecture governance, standards, and design patterns across all delivery teams and partners

Translate operational insights and incident trends into architectural improvements focused on stability, resilience, and performance

Define network observability, telemetry, and performance KPIs

Establish governance for Network-as-Code and automation frameworks

Provide architectural oversight across vendors, managed service providers, and technology partners

Requirements

10+ years of experience in networking, including significant experience in enterprise architecture leadership roles

Proven track record designing and governing large-scale, multi-country network environments

Deep expertise across Cisco technologies including Catalyst, Meraki, and SD-WAN

Strong experience with Network Access Control (ISE), firewalls (Fortinet and/or Cisco), and SASE/SSE architectures

Expertise in LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi, and network segmentation design

Strong experience in cloud and hybrid networking across Azure and/or AWS

Deep understanding of secure network design principles including Zero Trust and segmentation

Experience defining architecture standards, governance frameworks, and design patterns

Exposure to Terraform, network automation, and Network-as-Code

Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence senior leadership and drive enterprise-wide alignment

Must-Have

Active CCIE (Lab Certified) from Cisco (e.g. Enterprise Infrastructure, Security, or equivalent)

This role offers the opportunity to define and lead network architecture at enterprise scale, driving transformation across SD-WAN, SASE, and cloud while operating as a key decision-maker within a complex and evolving technology landscape