Director of Critical Infrastructure

About Us:At NetXperts, we are dedicated to revolutionizing the networking and security landscape for public sector clients across California. Specializing in the technological infrastructure of airports, colleges, and transportation systems, we are committed to delivering innovative solutions and exceptional service that drive operational excellence and success. NetXperts is backed by investment firm Worklyn Partners.About the Role:NetXperts is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Director of Critical Infrastructure to lead our technical team and manage complex networking projects for our SLED clients. This role is crucial for providing outstanding customer-facing support, developing and implementing sophisticated network solutions, and ensuring successful engagements in a dynamic and challenging environment.Responsibilities:Leadership and Team Management:Lead and mentor a team of network engineers and technical staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.Manage relationships with third-party suppliers and service providers across multiple sites and countries.Customer Engagement:Engage with clients to understand their business goals, challenges, and specific requirements related to networking and security.Offer expert technical guidance and best practices tailored to the learned business goals of our clients. Focusing on the public Sector (airports, colleges, transportation systems and similar large/enterprise projects).Work with Sales and Sales engineering teams to respond to large (200+ page) complex RFPsBecome a trusted advisor to customersSolution Design and Delivery:Develop and present solution architectures that meet the strategic short-term and long term client objectives.Lead the design, implementation, and optimization of network solutions, ensuring adherence to quality, performance, and scalability standards.Oversee the delivery of Solutions Consulting including workshops, proofs of value, strategy development, and integration services.Project Management:Build/Manage a team that manages complex projects from initiation through delivery, ensuring alignment with timelines and budgets.Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including engineers, architects, sales, and services, to deliver customized solutions.Provide oversight and support for follow-on professional services engagements.Solution Development:Develop and refine solution-related documents, including deliverable templates and support materials.Collaborate with advisory teams, marketing, sales, and vendor partners to create and execute go-to-market plans.Offer feedback and insights to product and engineering teams on customer needs and market trends.Qualifications:Education:Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.Certifications:CCNP, CCIE, or similar advanced certifications required.Experience:10+ years of experience in architecting, designing, and optimizing large scale network and security solutions8+ years of experience with other Cisco solutions in areas such as data center, collaboration, wireless, IoT5+ years of experience in consulting, presales, or customer-facing roles at a VAR5 plus years experience managing and leading teamsTechnical Skills:Expertise in enterprise LAN/WAN, Wireless, data center, cloud networking, network security, and telephony solutions.Proficiency with routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP)Understanding of modern ip-fabrics and Spine-Leaf ArchitecturesUnderstanding of modern security architectures and implementations of SASE, SSE, SWG, CASB, and SOAR.Firm Grasp on specific vendor IAM and NAC based solutions (Cisco ISE, Juniper MAA)Working knowledge of Next Gen firewalls (Cisco, Palo Alto, Juniper)Ability to talk, quote and know in-depth current Cisco and competing products. Examples are: Cisco ISR, Cisco ISE, Cisco Catalyst (9100, 9000. 8000), Cisco Firepower, Cisco SecureX, Juniper MX/SRX/EX/QFX/ACX/PTX, Aruba 650/510, Aruba CX, Aruba 7000 series and Aruba ClearPass.Knowledge of ITILv3, disaster recovery, project management, and managing third-party suppliers.Proficiency in Microsoft Suite, ERP systems, and knowledge of telecommunication protocols.Soft Skills:Advanced communication skills, both written and verbal, can discuss complex technical solutions with non-technical stakeholders.Strong leadership, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.Team building and mentoringAbility to be a player/coach; someone that can be technical and a managerAbility to work independently, drive strategic roadmaps, and manage global projectsAdditional Requirements:Fluent in English, both written and verbal.Willingness to travel as required.NetXperts is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against applicants or employees based on any protected characteristic