Director, Access Network

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Access Network to lead our team focused on the Network Access Layer. This role is pivotal in ensuring the reliability, security, and optimization of GSK’s network availability, design, and future growth. The ideal candidate will have a robust background in network architecture, strong leadership skills, and the ability to drive strategic initiatives in a fast-paced, global environment.

Your responsibilities include…

• Develop and implement the strategic vision for GSK’s global network infrastructure for 200+ global locations.
• Day to day oversight of all Architectural designs, Project Engineering Support, and Operational reliability for GSK remote locations globally.
• Develop and align network strategies with the overall business goals and IT objectives.
• Lead and mentor a team of network professionals, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Oversee the design, implementation, and management of GSK’s global network infrastructure, including LAN, WIFI, OT Networks, and Authentication systems.
• Ensure high availability, performance, and security of assigned network services.
• Implement robust network security measures to protect GSK’s data and systems from threats.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Collaborate with vendors and service providers to negotiate contracts and manage relationships.
• Engage with internal stakeholders to understand their needs and provide network solutions that support business objectives.
• Develop and manage the Access Network department’s budget.
• Allocate resources effectively to support current operations and future growth.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends.
• Identify opportunities for automation, optimization, and efficiency improvements in network operations.

Your Key Stakeholders are…

• Senior Director Connectivity: Accountable to ensure alignment with cohesive strategy for Global Connectivity services
• Access Network Architects & Engineers: Daily interaction with upwards of 10 Architects and Engineers, ensuring that visions are communicated, and processes are optimized
• Portfolio Director: Weekly interactions to ensure 100+ of simultaneous initiatives are running on track and technical challenges are met
• Business Units: Regular cadence meetings to ensure that solutions provided are fit for purpose in enabling GSK’s communications needs
• Strategic Partners: Daily engagement with suppliers that provide network services to the business

Why you? 

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in Computer Science, Information Systems, Software Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent technical qualification with relevant experience.
• Significant experience in Network Services with direct experience managing a global network end to end.
• Strong experience managing strategic suppliers providing 24×7 operational support and technology vendor support contracts
• Strong experience managing operational budgets exceeding 25 million pounds.
• Strong of experience in both Juniper and Cisco Systems platforms for LAN switching and Wi-Fi.
• Demonstrated strong leadership skills with the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with diverse audiences across various technical disciplines and job levels to achieve results.
• Proven experience in leading globally distributed matrixed organizations.
• Extensive management experience with suppliers and matrixed multi-functional teams located globally.
• Self-starter with a sense of urgency and the ability to handle multiple high-priority work demands simultaneously in an outcome-driven organization.
• Proven track record in establishing SRE practices within the enterprise.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong experience in the pharmaceutical industry, with a solid understanding of its technological trends.
• Experience with Cloud Network, Datacentre Network, WAN Technologies, and Zero Trust Architecture.
• Passionate about enhancing the customer experience.
• Experienced in initiating and delivering large-scale operational programs.
• Proficient in agile delivery methodologies.
• Experienced in the DevOps operational model.

Interested in Joining the Team?

Please apply via our online portal providing your CV and Cover Letter.

(Please take a personal copy of the Job Description, as this will not be available online post closure of the advert)

Closing Date: 25th March 2025.

Why GSK?

Uniting science, technology and talent to get ahead of disease together.

GSK is a global biopharma company with a special purpose – to unite science, technology and talent to get ahead of disease together – so we can positively impact the health of billions of people and deliver stronger, more sustainable shareholder returns – as an organisation where people can thrive. We prevent and treat disease with vaccines, specialty and general medicines. We focus on the science of the immune system and the use of new platform and data technologies, investing in four core therapeutic areas (infectious diseases, HIV, respiratory/ immunology and oncology).

Our success absolutely depends on our people. While getting ahead of disease together is about our ambition for patients and shareholders, it’s also about making GSK a place where people can thrive. We want GSK to be a place where people feel inspired, encouraged and challenged to be the best they can be. A place where they can be themselves – feeling welcome, valued, and included. Where they can keep growing and look after their wellbeing. So, if you share our ambition, join us at this exciting moment in our journey to get Ahead Together.

GSK is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, disability, genetic information, military service, covered/protected veteran status or any other federal, state or local protected class.

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