Firewall Infrastructure Team Manager

This role offers an exciting opportunity for a seasoned Firewall Infrastructure Team Manager to join a dynamic Network Services department during a period of significant transformation. If you're passionate about leading a critical 24/7 operation and contributing to the security of a major financial institution, this position presents a compelling career step.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Leadership and Impact: As the key technical contact point for the bank's critical infrastructure, you will have direct oversight and influence over the organization's firewall protection. This role demands strategic planning, technical execution, and direct leadership.
• Growth and Development: The opportunity is situated within an inclusive and collaborative team that actively values employee growth and ideas. You'll be instrumental in shaping the future of the group's network security.
• Modern Technology Adoption: This role involves the implementation of sophisticated changes, infrastructure upgrades, and the exploration of new technical solutions. There's a strong emphasis on automation and Infrastructure as Code (IaC), offering valuable experience with tools like Python, Harness, Ansible, and Terraform.
• Flexible Working: The organization champions a hybrid working model, requiring at least two days per week in one of their office sites (Leeds, Halifax, or Manchester). This offers a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Beyond a competitive salary range of £70,929 - £78,810, the package includes a generous pension contribution (up to 15%), annual performance-related bonuses, share schemes, a flexible cash pot for lifestyle benefits, 30 days' holiday plus bank holidays, and a range of wellbeing initiatives.
• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: The organization demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace, actively encouraging applications from under-represented groups and supporting initiatives like a menopause health package and a Working with Cancer program. They are also a disability-confident employer.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Experience Requirements: While direct financial services experience isn't mandatory, a background in regulated environments is highly desirable. Proven experience in owning and managing an engineering team is essential.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong technical acumen is required, including experience with ACI Technologies, network monitoring tools (e.g., SolarWinds, Dynatrace), and ideally, Checkpoint Firewall knowledge. Proficiency in automation and IaC tools is a significant plus.
• Balancing Priorities: The role necessitates skillfully managing risk, adhering to security standards, and balancing the imperative of maintaining and protecting service with the drive for transforming capabilities and user experiences.
• Problem-Solving and Innovation: Candidates should possess a proactive approach to unblocking technical challenges, a forward-thinking mindset for evaluating new patterns and solutions, and a keen eye for opportunities to reduce operational costs and improve change delivery.
• Geographically Diverse Team Management: Experience in leading and managing a team that may be geographically dispersed is important for success in this role.

This Firewall Infrastructure Team Manager position is an excellent opportunity for a motivated leader looking to make a tangible impact within a forward-thinking organization. If you thrive in a challenging yet supportive environment, possess strong technical and people leadership skills, and are eager to contribute to the security of a major financial institution, this role aligns well with a career trajectory focused on infrastructure leadership and cybersecurity.