We are looking for an experienced
Network & Infrastructure Lead
to oversee the global network and infrastructure environment spanning global corporate offices, production sites, and manufacturing facilities.
You will lead a small team of network engineers and manage external partners, ensuring the stability, scalability, and security of all network and connectivity services that keep production and business operations running across multiple international sites.
This is a
hands-on technical leadership role
, combining architecture, operations, and vendor coordination in a hybrid IT/OT landscape.
Key Responsibilities
* Act as domain expert for all network and related infrastructure topics.
* Lead and mentor a team of two internal network engineers and coordinate external service providers.
* Design, implement, and optimize network architectures across WAN, LAN, WLAN, and data center environments.
* Lead complex incident resolution (2nd & 3rd line) for network, OT, and production hardware (e.g., RF scanners, printers).
* Manage network projects and participate in broader infrastructure initiatives — ensuring delivery within defined scope, budget, and standards.
* Oversee WAN provider performance and coordinate changes and escalations with third parties.
* Support VoIP, connectivity for application integrations, and infrastructure upgrades.
* Maintain network documentation, diagrams, and configuration baselines.
* Collaborate with business and engineering teams to understand requirements and translate them into practical network solutions.
* Ensure all activities comply with security and change management procedures (ITIL-based).
* Stay up to date with emerging technologies, ensuring continuous improvement and modernization of network operations.
What are we looking for?
Network & Security
* Solid experience with
LAN/WAN routing, switching, and wireless LAN
(preferably
Cisco
).
* Knowledge of
firewalling
(Palo Alto, Fortinet, or equivalent) and
SD-WAN
concepts.
* Experience with VoIP systems and network segmentation for mixed IT/OT environments.
* Understanding of industrial connectivity and production hardware integration (RF devices, printers, etc.).
Infrastructure & Systems
* Broad
infrastructure knowledge
including
servers, virtualization, storage
, and
Active Directory
.
* Good understanding of
Windows 11, Office 365, hardware
, and general IT operations.
* Experience in production or manufacturing environments with high uptime requirements.
Processes & Governance
* Familiarity with
ITIL
processes (incident, change, problem).
* Experience managing outsourcing partners and vendors in a global context.
* Pragmatic use of project management methodologies to plan and deliver initiatives effectively.
Nice-to-Have Skills
* Exposure to
cloud networking
or
hybrid network architectures
(Azure, M365)
.
* Knowledge of OT network segmentation and industrial cybersecurity concepts.
* Basic understanding of
security frameworks
(
ISO 27001, NIS2
).
* Experience with
n
etwork monitoring and performance tools (
SolarWinds, PRTG, Cisco DNA, etc
.).
* Fluent in English, Dutch would be nice to have
What do we offer?
Location: Eeklo (hybrid)
Terms: Freelance or Permanent
Duration: Long term