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- Tasks: Lead the creation of a cutting-edge AI-Native 'Dark NOC' operational model.
- Company: Join a leading consultancy supporting a top FinTech under strict regulations.
- Benefits: Competitive pay up to £1,200 per day and opportunities for impactful work.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of network operations and AI innovation in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in building NOCs and implementing AI solutions in regulated settings.
- Other info: Embrace a player-coach role that values attitude and aptitude over certifications.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 180000 £ per year.
Up to £1,200 Per Day
SECURE has strategically partnered with a leading consultancy to support a FinTech leader operating under strict regulatory frameworks (FCA / PCI DSS). They are undertaking a strategic pivot to an AI-Native, "Dark NOC" Ecosystem, seeking a leader to architect this capability from the "ground up".
We are looking to speak with talented NOC SME / Principal Network Architects / Lead NRE. This is a player-coach role for a technologist who refuses to be a "manager." You will architect the "Dark NOC" foundation, designing a zero-touch operational model where agentic AI predicts failures and executes fixes, while ensuring total auditability & "explainability" for regulatory compliance.
Skills & Experience: (The Golden 20%)
- Greenfield Architecture: Proven experience building a NOC from scratch (staffing, tooling, process, topology).
- AI-Native Operations: Experience implementing AIOps, agentic AI & DSLMs (Domain Specific Language Models).
- Regulated Environments: Experience operating mission-critical networks under FCA, PCI DSS, or ISO 27001 standards.
- Advanced Networking: Deep expertise in BGP, OSPF, VXLAN EVPN & Azure Networking (ExpressRoute / Global Reach).
- Security Convergence: Breaking silos between NOC & SOC by integrating NDR, XDR, & SIEM telemetry.
- Future-Proofing: Knowledge of quantum-safe cryptography & post-quantum network strategies.
Responsibilities: (The Mission)
- Define the "Dark NOC" strategy: Create roadmap for a zero-touch operational model where L1 / L2 incidents are resolved autonomously.
- Engineer "Chat-Ops": Implement DSLMs that allow engineers to "chat" with the network to perform complex assessments instantly.
- Operationalise self-healing: Deploy agentic AI to diagnose routing loops & execute automated fixes via digital twin simulations.
- Ensure compliance: Deploy ML models that provide audit-ready, traceable reasoning for every automated decision (FCA requirement).
- Culture & AI education: Lead cultural transformation, training the engineering team to interpret, validate & trust AI-driven insights.
- Drive quantum resilience: Advise on post-quantum cryptographic standards to future-proof the payment network.
At SECURE, we value attitude & aptitude over certifications. If you possess the drive and relevant experience to deliver tangible results aligned with our clients' needs, reach out.
HEAD OF NETWORK OPERATIONS (GREENFIELD & AI STRATEGY) / NOC SME employer: Secure Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Secure Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HEAD OF NETWORK OPERATIONS (GREENFIELD & AI STRATEGY) / NOC SME
✨Tip Number 1
Network with industry professionals! Attend meetups, webinars, or conferences related to NOC and AI strategies. Engaging with others in the field can lead to valuable connections and job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a personal website where you can highlight your past projects, especially those involving greenfield architecture and AI implementations. This will help you stand out when networking.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to NOC operations and AI strategies. Be ready to discuss your experience in regulated environments and how you've tackled challenges in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talented individuals who can help us build the future of network operations. Don’t miss out on the chance to join a forward-thinking team!
We think you need these skills to ace HEAD OF NETWORK OPERATIONS (GREENFIELD & AI STRATEGY) / NOC SME
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your greenfield architecture experience and any AI-native operations you've implemented. We want to see how you can fit into our vision!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Head of Network Operations role. Share specific examples of your past successes in regulated environments and how you’ve built NOCs from scratch.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t hold back on your technical expertise! Make sure to detail your knowledge of advanced networking protocols and security convergence. We’re looking for someone who can really dive deep into the tech side of things.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Let’s get started on this journey together!
How to prepare for a job interview at Secure Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Greenfield Architecture Inside Out
Make sure you can discuss your experience in building a NOC from scratch. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've tackled staffing, tooling, and process design. This role is all about creating something new, so show them you’ve got the vision and the practical know-how.
✨Showcase Your AI-Native Operations Experience
Prepare to dive deep into your experience with AIOps and Agentic AI. They’ll want to hear how you’ve implemented these technologies in regulated environments. Bring along any case studies or metrics that demonstrate your success in this area.
✨Understand Regulatory Frameworks
Brush up on FCA, PCI DSS, and ISO 27001 standards. Be ready to discuss how you’ve ensured compliance in past roles, especially in mission-critical networks. This will show that you’re not just technically savvy but also aware of the regulatory landscape.
✨Emphasise Cultural Transformation Skills
This role involves leading a cultural shift towards AI education within the team. Think about how you can articulate your approach to training and mentoring others in interpreting and trusting AI-driven insights. Highlight any previous experiences where you’ve successfully led similar initiatives.
