At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of network infrastructure for a major banking group.
- Company: Join a leading banking group in EMEA with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible freelance role with hybrid working options and competitive pay.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a dynamic environment with potential for growth.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on cutting-edge network architecture in finance.
- Qualifications: Deep expertise in Cisco networking and strong communication skills required.
A major banking group operating in EMEA is undergoing a significant infrastructure transformation programme, converging two separate network environments (a legacy three-tier Cisco campus network and an ACI spine-leaf fabric) alongside the integration of a European banking subsidiary. This is a hands-on senior architecture role requiring both strategic thinking and the ability to roll up sleeves and engage at detailed engineering levels.
Requirements
- Must have
- Deep expertise in Cisco networking: Nexus (7K, 5K, 2K, 9K), IOS, NX-OS
- Strong working knowledge of Cisco ACI — ability to assess hybrid/pseudo-ACI deployments and define target-state app-centric or network-centric design
- Expert-level routing and switching: OSPF, BGP, EIGRP (including identification and remediation of misconfigurations)
- Data centre network design: spine-leaf, three-tier, convergence strategies
- Firewall architecture: Palo Alto (PA-40 series), Cisco ASA (legacy and migration)
- WAN/MPLS concepts and managed service architectures (NTT or similar providers)
- IP address management (IPAM) and DNS/DHCP strategies
- Network security design principles
- Familiarity with SD-WAN, cloud networking (Azure, AWS), and hybrid connectivity
- Advantageous
- Cisco CCIE (Routing & Switching or Data Centre) or equivalent demonstrable expertise
- Experience with network automation and orchestration tooling
- Knowledge of co-location and proximity hosting environments
- Understanding of financial services network requirements (trading floor, market data, payment systems)
- Soft skills
- Able to operate with ambiguity — comfortable in environments without fully defined organisational structure
- Strong communication skills: able to articulate complex technical problems to non-technical senior stakeholders
- Commercial awareness — understanding of total cost of ownership, vendor contracts, and infrastructure spend
- Collaborative and pragmatic, with the confidence to challenge incumbents and advocate for sound design principles
- Self-starter capable of providing direction to others with limited supervision
Senior Network Architect - freelance - hybrid, London, UK employer: Comgent
As a leading banking group in EMEA, we offer an exceptional work environment for Senior Network Architects looking to make a significant impact through our infrastructure transformation programme. Our hybrid working model promotes flexibility and work-life balance, while our commitment to employee growth ensures that you will have access to continuous learning opportunities and the chance to engage with cutting-edge technologies. Join us in London, where collaboration and innovation are at the heart of our culture, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Network Architect - freelance - hybrid, London, UK
✨Show Off Your Expertise Online
In the banking and financial services world, sharing your insights on platforms like LinkedIn can really set you apart. Write articles about market trends or finance tips, and engage in discussions in relevant groups. This not only boosts your visibility but also highlights your knowledge to potential clients.
✨Join Freelance Platforms and Networking Events
Freelancing in finance can be competitive, so make sure you're on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, specifically targeting finance gigs. Also, look for finance networking events or webinars to connect with small businesses that might need your services. Meeting people face-to-face (or online) can score you those elusive freelance contracts.
✨Build a Stunning Portfolio
Since you're going freelance, having a solid portfolio is a must. Showcase your previous work, such as reports or analyses, and consider using case studies to highlight your approach. The more you can demonstrate your skills, the easier it is for clients to trust you with their finances.
✨Direct Outreach is Key
For freelance gigs, don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Identify companies or startups that align with your skills and reach out directly. A personalised message introducing yourself and proposing how you could add value can go a long way. Plus, keep an eye on Comgent for freelance opportunities—they might have just what you’re looking for!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Financial Savvy:When applying for a freelance role in banking and financial services, we need to see your expertise front and centre! Mention specific financial regulations or tools you've mastered, and feel free to include your relevant qualifications, like CFA or ACCA, to bolster your credibility.
Build a Stellar Portfolio:Since this is a freelance gig, your portfolio is your ticket to impressing us at Comgent. Include examples of past projects you've completed—think financial analyses, investment reports, or forecasting models. Be sure to highlight the results you achieved!
Tailor Your Rates and Availability:We want to see that you're flexible and can align with our needs. Clearly outline your freelance rates, availability for projects, and whether you're open to long-term collaborations or just ad-hoc gigs. This makes it easier for us to understand how we can work together!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your skills, but also why you're excited about joining Comgent. Share your passion for financial services and how you plan to tackle challenges in this sector. This is your chance to connect on a personal level—make it count!
How to prepare for a job interview at Comgent
✨Show Off Your Financial Savvy
When you're talking with Comgent, make sure to highlight your experience with financial modelling, risk assessment, or portfolio management. Freelance work often requires a good level of financial literacy, so prepare to discuss any relevant tools you've used, whether it's Excel or specific financial software.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
A freelance role means you’ll want to showcase your previous work effectively. Put together a portfolio that not only highlights your projects but also demonstrates the outcomes - think case studies or success stories that showcase how your financial skills made a difference for past clients.
✨Know Your Regulations and Compliance
In the banking and financial services world, understanding compliance and regulations is crucial. Make sure you’re up to date with the latest standards as they relate to your expertise. Be prepared for specific questions about how you've navigated these in past roles or how you'd approach potential compliance challenges.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Rates and Availability
As a freelancer, the topic of rates and availability can come up early on. Be clear about what you offer and how you charge. It might also help to have a few examples in mind where your expertise saved someone money or improved efficiency to justify your rates to Comgent.
