At a Glance
- Tasks: Assess and enhance network architecture for a major financial services client.
- Company: Leading financial services firm with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive rate, flexible remote work, and potential for extension.
- Other info: Opportunity to present findings to senior executives and shape future strategies.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and influence critical network decisions in finance.
- Qualifications: Expertise in Cisco networking and experience in financial services required.
Rate: £550-£600 Outside IR35
Duration: 3 months initially, view to extend
Location: London 1 day per week, 4 days remote (open to remote)
Overview
We are looking for a senior Network Architect for an engagement with a major financial services client. You will be an expert-level practitioner who is equally comfortable working at depth technically and presenting findings to senior executives. Both skills are essential for this engagement.
What the Role Involves
- Assess and document the current network estate across LAN, WAN, and Data Centre environments
- Identify fragmentation, technical debt, and architectural risk within the existing environment
- Produce a current state assessment and a clear future state architecture recommendation
- Validate existing designs and configurations against current best practice for financial services environments
- Engage with internal technology teams, architects, and engineering staff to gather information and validate findings
- Present findings and recommendations to senior stakeholders and executive audiences: translating technical complexity into business risk and impact
- Define a pragmatic, prioritised roadmap from current to target state
Technical Skills Required
- Cisco Platform Expertise
- Expert-level knowledge of Cisco networking across LAN, WAN, and Data Centre: this is non-negotiable
- Hands-on experience with Cisco ACI: policy model, fabric design, and operational management
- Familiarity with Cisco DNA Centre, ISE, and related campus and branch tooling
- Routing and Switching Protocols
- Strong command of BGP and OSPF in enterprise and data centre contexts
- Working knowledge of EIGRP and other legacy protocols: able to assess environments where these remain in use
- Understanding of SD-WAN architectures and migration considerations
- Architecture and Assessment
- Proven ability to assess fragmented, multi-vendor environments and produce HLD/LLD documentation independently
- Experience producing current state assessments and future state recommendations as formal deliverables
- Strong understanding of network security principles as they apply to financial services infrastructure
- Familiarity with cloud connectivity patterns (Azure/AWS) and hybrid architectures
Experience Required
- CCIE-level expertise: certified or equivalent demonstrated experience. Depth of knowledge is what matters
- Substantial background in financial services: banking, capital markets, or equivalent regulated environments
- Experience presenting to senior technology stakeholders: Heads of Architecture, CTOs, or equivalent
Network Architect in London employer: LinkedIn
As a leading employer in the financial services sector, we offer Network Architects the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects while enjoying a flexible work environment that includes one day in London and four days remote. Our culture fosters collaboration and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development, all within a supportive team that values your expertise and contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Network Architect in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network with industry professionals! Attend meetups, webinars, or conferences related to network architecture. This is a great way to make connections and learn about job opportunities that might not be advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising your presentation skills. Since you'll need to explain complex technical concepts to senior stakeholders, being able to communicate clearly and confidently is key. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio of your past projects and achievements in network architecture. This can include case studies, diagrams, or even presentations you've delivered. It’s a fantastic way to demonstrate your skills beyond just your CV.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We have a range of opportunities that might be perfect for you. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Network Architect in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Network Architect role. Highlight your Cisco expertise and experience in financial services. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your past work, especially around assessing network environments and presenting to senior stakeholders. Let your personality shine through!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t just list your technical skills; demonstrate them! Use your application to show how you've applied your knowledge of BGP, OSPF, and Cisco ACI in real-world scenarios. We love seeing practical examples!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at LinkedIn
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in Cisco networking, especially around LAN, WAN, and Data Centre environments. Brush up on your knowledge of BGP, OSPF, and SD-WAN architectures. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re the expert they’re looking for.
✨Prepare to Present Like a Pro
Since you'll need to present findings to senior stakeholders, practice translating complex technical details into clear business impacts. Use real-world examples from your past experiences to illustrate your points. This will help you connect with your audience and demonstrate your communication skills.
✨Document Your Achievements
Before the interview, prepare a portfolio or a summary of your previous assessments and recommendations. Highlight any HLD/LLD documentation you've produced and how it benefited your past employers. This tangible evidence of your work will reinforce your expertise.
✨Understand the Financial Services Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and regulations within the financial services sector. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, particularly around network security principles and cloud connectivity patterns. This will show that you’re not just technically skilled but also industry-savvy.
