Senior Network Lead (Cisco)

We have an urgent requirement for Senior Network Lead (Cisco) for our client based in Dubai,UAEDesign, implementation, modernization, and operational management of enterprise network infrastructure--MustDeep expertise in Cisco routing and switching technologies, data center networking, network security, automation, and high-availability architectures.--MustRole OverviewWe are seeking a highly experienced Senior Network Lead (Cisco) to lead the design, implementation, modernization, and operational management of enterprise network infrastructure. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in Cisco routing and switching technologies, data center networking, network security, automation, and high-availability architectures. This role will be responsible for driving network transformation initiatives, ensuring resilient and secure connectivity, and leading network operations across enterprise environments.Key ResponsibilitiesNetwork Architecture & LeadershipLead the design, deployment, and optimization of enterprise network infrastructure.Develop scalable LAN, WAN, and data center networking architectures.Define network standards, governance, and best practices.Provide technical leadership and mentorship to network engineering teams.Cisco Routing & SwitchingDesign, configure, and manage Cisco routing and switching environments.Support core, distribution, and access network infrastructure.Implement routing protocols including BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, and MPLS technologies.Ensure network stability, scalability, and operational excellence.Network Transformation & ModernizationLead network transformation initiatives, including technology refresh and architectural modernization.Drive adoption of software-defined networking and automation technologies.Plan and execute network migrations with minimal business disruption.Collaborate with infrastructure, cloud, and security teams on modernization programs.Network Security & ResilienceImplement network security controls and best practices across enterprise environments.Design highly available and resilient network architectures.Support disaster recovery, redundancy, and business continuity requirements.Ensure compliance with organizational security policies and standards.Performance Optimization & OperationsMonitor and optimize network performance, availability, and capacity.Troubleshoot complex network issues across WAN, LAN, and data center environments.Perform root cause analysis and implement long-term corrective actions.Manage network monitoring and reporting platforms.Lifecycle Management & AutomationLead firmware upgrades, patching, hardware refresh, and lifecycle management activities.Develop network automation solutions using scripting and automation frameworks.Automate configuration management, provisioning, compliance, and operational tasks.Maintain network documentation, standards, and operational procedures.Required Skills & Experience10+ years of experience in Network Engineering, Network Operations, or Enterprise Infrastructure.Expert-level knowledge of Cisco Routing and Switching technologies.Strong experience in WAN, LAN, and Data Center networking.Deep understanding of enterprise network security principles.Experience leading network transformation and modernization projects.Strong knowledge of high availability, redundancy, and resilient network design.Experience with network performance tuning, monitoring, and troubleshooting.Hands-on experience with firmware upgrades, lifecycle management, and infrastructure refresh programs.Network automation experience using Python, Ansible, Cisco DNA Center, or similar tools.Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.Highly DesirableExperience with Cisco ACI, SD-WAN, SDA, and Data Center technologies.Cloud networking experience across Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud.Experience with multi-vendor network environments.Knowledge of Infrastructure as Code (IaC) and DevOps practices.Experience in large enterprise or regulated environments.Preferred CertificationsCCNP EnterpriseCCIE Enterprise InfrastructureCisco DevNet ProfessionalCisco Certified Specialist CertificationsCISSP (Preferred)ITIL FoundationSkills: infrastructure,cisco,network lead