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 include:

• Technical direction, asset lifecycle and financial management, and team leadership.
• Working collaboratively with Network Operations, Engineering, Field Teams, Project Management, Finance, and external partners to drive infrastructure resilience, regulatory compliance, and exceptional customer service, aligning with ITIL best practices.

Network Operations & Performance:

• 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, planning upgrades ahead of demand.
• Implement and continuously improve monitoring, alerting, troubleshooting, and incident response processes.

Infrastructure Asset Lifecycle Management:

• Develop and implement asset management strategies for physical infrastructure assets.
• Conduct asset condition assessments, audits, and performance evaluations.
• Track asset lifecycle status, performance, service life, and replacement schedules.
• Ensure assets are operated and maintained in line with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and organisational objectives.
• Monitor and optimise lifecycle costs, maximising asset value and return on investment.

Data Management & Reporting:

• Maintain accurate asset and network records using asset management systems, GIS, and network management tools.
• Produce regular reports covering asset condition, network performance, risks, compliance, maintenance activity, and financial performance.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory reporting requirements and industry standards.

Risk Management, Resilience & Compliance:

• Identify and mitigate operational, financial, environmental, and security risks related to network and infrastructure assets.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, safety standards, and best practices.
• Lead or support disaster recovery, resilience, and business continuity planning for critical infrastructure and network services.

Financial & Strategic Planning:

• Own and manage budgets for network and infrastructure assets.
• Forecast future investment requirements based on growth, asset condition, and technology roadmaps.
• Develop long-term network and asset management strategies aligned to business objectives.

Stakeholder & Vendor Management:

• Work closely with Engineering, Operations, Field Engineering, Customer Service, and Project teams to align asset and network priorities.
• Liaise with regulators, contractors, service providers, and vendors to ensure effective delivery of maintenance, upgrades, and projects.
• Build and manage strong supplier and partner relationships.

Leadership & People Management:

• Set clear objectives, performance standards, and expectations for team members.
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and regular feedback to develop skills and performance.
• Allocate work effectively based on skills and priorities.
• Lead teams through change, fostering engagement, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Act as a role model, consistently demonstrating and upholding Airband’s values.

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 with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• 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 – a mix of working from home and in the office.
• Free Broadband if you are in our coverage.
• 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.
• Dental care, and Health cash fund (dependent on the length of service).
• Airshare (employee discount platform).
• Refer a friend reward scheme.

Pre-employment checks:

• You are required to have the right to work in the UK and we request satisfactory references as part of our recruitment process.
• A DBS check may be required for a number of our roles, particularly those that are customer-facing.
• A driving license may be required for positions that require you to be out in the field as part of the role.