Head of Networks

The Head of Networks will lead the end-to-end management and strategic development of Airband’s network and physical infrastructure. This pivotal role oversees ISP network operations—including IP core, BNG, access, capacity, and CPE—while managing the full lifecycle of physical assets such as FTTP infrastructure, legacy FWA sites, cabinets, and private facilities. Combining technical expertise with strong leadership, the post holder ensures network services and infrastructure are reliable, scalable, secure, compliant, and cost-effective.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Network Operations Centre (NOC) and network engineering teams, ensuring high-quality operational support for ISP services.
• Ensure day-to-day availability, performance, and security of the ISP network.
• Operate and maintain broadband network infrastructure including BNG platforms, IP core and aggregation networks, Internet transit, IXPs, peering, and interconnects.
• Oversee IP address management, including RIPE allocations, DHCP, CGNAT platforms.
• Ensure effective support and lifecycle management of the CPE estate.
• Monitor and manage network capacity across access, backhaul, and core layers.
• Develop and implement asset management strategies for physical infrastructure assets.
• Conduct asset condition assessments, audits, and performance evaluations.
• Maintain accurate asset and network records using asset management systems.
• Identify and mitigate operational, financial, environmental, and security risks related to network and infrastructure assets.
• Own and manage budgets for network and infrastructure assets.
• Work closely with Engineering, Operations, Field Engineering, Customer Service, and Project teams.
• Set clear objectives, performance standards, and expectations for team members.

Key Skills

• Strong Management expertise in IP networking and ISP infrastructure.
• Proven infrastructure asset management experience.
• Strategic thinking with the ability to develop long-term plans.
• Strong financial and commercial acumen.
• Excellent leadership, people management, and coaching skills.
• Strong analytical, data-driven decision-making capability.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational and planning skills.
• Proactive problem-solving mindset with high attention to detail.
• Flexible, adaptable, and resilient in a changing environment.
• Collaborative approach with the ability to influence multiple stakeholders.

Essential

• 5+ years’ experience in network and/or infrastructure management roles.
• In-depth knowledge of IP networking, TCP/IP, and data protocols.
• Proven experience managing teams and operational environments.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Ability to travel as required.

Desirable

• CCNA, CCNP or equivalent networking certification.
• Familiarity with ISO 55000 / ISO 55001 asset management standards.
• IAM certification or qualification.
• BSc degree in Computer Science, IT, Engineering, or related discipline.

What can Airband Offer you?

• 25 days of paid leave a year rising to 30 plus bank holidays with service.
• 5% Airband pension plus a minimum 3% employee contribution.
• Customer referral bonus.
• Hybrid working.
• Free Broadband.
• 20% off your monthly line rental on EE’s phone, tablet, SIM only or mobile broadband plans.
• Cycle to work, Tech scheme, Healthcare and medical insurance.
• Employee discount platform.
• Refer a friend reward scheme!

Please note that you are required to have the right to work in the UK and we request satisfactory references as part of our recruitment process.