Job Description: Lead/Principal Network Architect IP, SD-WAN, SASE

Role Summary

We are seeking a seasoned Network Architect with deep expertise in IP Networking, SD-WAN, and SASE, complemented by cloud networking exposure, to lead end-to-end design, transformation, and operations for global enterprise and telecom customers. The role demands strong hands-on expertise, solutioning capability, and stakeholder engagement to deliver high-performance, secure, and scalable network architectures.

Key Responsibilities

1. Network Architecture & Solution Design

Design and architect enterprise and service provider IP/MPLS networks, ensuring scalability, performance, and resilience
Lead SD-WAN (Cisco SD-WAN/Viptela) and SDA deployments, including design, migration, and optimization
Define and implement SASE architectures integrating secure access, cloud-delivered security, and Zero Trust frameworks
Develop HLD/LLD, BOMs, and transformation roadmaps aligned to customer requirements

2. Delivery & Transformation

Lead large-scale network migration, LAN/WAN transformation, and DC modernization programs with minimal service disruption
Drive end-to-end lifecycle design, implementation, testing, and handover
Ensure network uptime, capacity planning, and change governance across multi-site environments
Support multi-vendor integrations (Cisco, Palo Alto, Fortinet, Checkpoint, F5, Huawei)

3. Security & SASE Implementation

Implement and manage Next-Gen Firewalls, VPNs, Identity-based access (ISE), and Zero Trust models
Design cloud-based security using SASE principles (SWG, CASB, ZTNA)
Strengthen enterprise security posture via segmentation, policy enforcement, and threat mitigation frameworks

4. Cloud Networking & Integration

Design and integrate cloud networking (AWS / hybrid cloud) with enterprise WAN architectures
Enable secure connectivity (VPN, Direct Connect-type setups) between on-prem and cloud
Support cloud-native network transformations and SDN adoption

5. Operations & Stakeholder Management

Lead operations of large-scale networks (routers, switches, firewalls) across global environments
Drive stakeholder engagement, customer discussions, and governance forums
Provide pre-sales and solution consulting support, contributing to proposals and business growth

6. Leadership & Mentoring

Mentor and guide engineering teams on routing, switching, SD-WAN, and security technologies
Drive best practices, automation adoption, and continuous improvement initiatives
Lead cross-functional collaboration for successful delivery and innovation

Required Skills & Experience

Core Networking

Strong expertise in Routing & Switching (BGP, OSPF, MPLS L2/L3 VPNs, Segment Routing)
Experience with enterprise/data center/ISP networks

SDN / SD-WAN

Hands-on experience in Cisco SD-WAN (Viptela), Cisco SDA (DNAC, ISE)
Strong understanding of SDN, automation, and intent-based networking

SASE & Security

Experience with Next-Gen Firewalls (Palo Alto, Fortinet, Cisco Firepower, Checkpoint)
Knowledge of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), Zero Trust, identity-based security
Strong exposure to VPNs (site-to-site, remote access), network segmentation

Cloud Networking

Exposure to AWS / hybrid cloud networking
Understanding of cloud security and networking constructs

Tools & Platforms

Networking tools: SolarWinds, Cisco Prime, AKIPS, NNMI
Platforms: Cisco ACI, DNAC, ISE

Qualifications

1015+ years of experience in Network Architecture / Engineering / Consulting
Certifications preferred:

CCNP / CCIE / HCIE (R&S)
AWS Certified (Cloud Practitioner or above)

Strong experience in global customer delivery environments

Key Differentiators (Nice to Have)

Experience in telecom/managed services environments (Vodafone, large enterprises, BFSI, healthcare)
Exposure to network automation / AI-led operations / intent-based networking
Experience in pre-sales, RFP solutioning and business development

Deputy General Manager - IP, SD-WAN, Cloud