At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and enhance our enterprise network while mentoring a talented team.
- Company: Join the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and wellness support.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global plant conservation through secure digital infrastructure.
- Qualifications: Experience in network engineering and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 46556 - 53882 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced enterprise network specialist with significant practical experience in network engineering, operations or infrastructure management, ideally at senior engineer, technical lead or manager level. You will bring strong hands-on capability in complex network infrastructure, including routing, switching, Ethernet fabric technologies, segmentation, perimeter security, VPN/remote access, monitoring and network resilience, alongside advanced firewall expertise; experience with Palo Alto Networks and/or Extreme Networks would be particularly valuable.
You will be confident leading complex incidents, root-cause analysis and major changes in live environments, translating high-level requirements and diagrams into practical designs, service standards and well-governed delivery plans. Just as important, you will be a clear communicator and supportive manager who can lead, mentor and develop specialist engineers while building trusted relationships with IT colleagues, cyber security, suppliers and non-technical stakeholders.
Experience of supplier management, technical contracts, procurement input, lifecycle planning and budget recommendations will help you succeed, as will a relevant professional qualification, certification or equivalent professional experience and a commitment to continuing professional development. We also welcome candidates who can bring experience of automation, telemetry, Zero Trust/SASE/ZTNA, disaster recovery or public-sector, charity, research, education or visitor-facing environments.
As Network Manager at RBG Kew, you will play a pivotal role in keeping the digital foundations of our world-renowned science, collections, gardens and visitor operations secure, resilient and future-ready. Leading the Network Operations Team, you will be both a hands-on technical authority and an inspiring people manager, responsible for the design, operation and continual improvement of our enterprise network, perimeter security, VPN/remote access, monitoring and resilience services across a complex, multi-site and public-facing environment.
This is a distinctive opportunity to shape services that support internationally important research, horticulture, public engagement and commercial activity, while helping Kew make the most of secure, reliable digital infrastructure.
The salary for this position is £46,556 - £53,882 per annum [Band E]. Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.
If you are interested in this position, please submit your application through the online portal, by clicking Apply for this job. At Kew, our strength lies in the diversity of our people and the insights they bring. When you join us, you will find an organisation that values your perspective and lived experience. You will receive support to achieve your full potential and access opportunities to develop and progress. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is ongoing, shaped by the people who work here and the communities we serve. As a disability confident employer, we are breaking down barriers to be an inclusive workplace for everyone.
Network Manager employer: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
At RBG Kew, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to plant science and conservation. Our supportive work culture fosters continuous learning and professional development, complemented by a generous benefits package that includes flexible working arrangements, wellbeing support, and access to our stunning gardens. Join us in making a meaningful impact on global biodiversity while enjoying a fulfilling career in a collaborative and inclusive environment.
Contact Details:
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Network Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, webinars, and meetups to connect with fellow network specialists. Don't be shy—introduce yourself and share your passion for network management; you never know who might have the perfect opportunity for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or a personal website showcasing your projects, certifications, and achievements in network engineering. This will give potential employers a clear picture of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common technical questions related to network infrastructure and security. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining us at Kew. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with our mission and values, and don’t forget to mention any relevant automation or security expertise.
We think you need these skills to ace Network Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Network Manager role. Highlight your hands-on experience with network infrastructure, routing, and security technologies. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role at RBG Kew. Share specific examples of your past experiences that relate to the job description and show us your passion for network management.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Network Manager, you'll be leading a team. Make sure to highlight your experience in mentoring and developing engineers. We love to see candidates who can communicate effectively and build strong relationships with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our online portal! It's the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
✨Know Your Network Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of complex network infrastructure, especially routing, switching, and security technologies. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with tools like Palo Alto Networks or Extreme Networks, as this will show you're the right fit for the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask you to lead through complex incidents or major changes in live environments. Think of specific examples from your past where you successfully managed such situations, focusing on your problem-solving skills and how you communicated with your team and stakeholders.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a potential manager, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to mentor and develop engineers. Prepare to share experiences where you've led a team, built relationships, and fostered a supportive environment, as this aligns with their emphasis on clear communication and people management.
✨Highlight Your Continuous Learning Mindset
With a commitment to professional development being key, be ready to discuss any relevant certifications or training you've pursued. This shows you're proactive about staying current in the field and can bring fresh insights to the team at Kew.
