Network Architect
First Point Group is recruiting for a Network Architect (SD-WAN / SDN / Cloud) and previous experience with (PCI-DSS / banking / regulated environments).
The successful candidate must have strong enterprise network architecture experience, expertise across network security and hands-on experience with network automation tools such as Terraform, Ansible, or Python.
*****PLEASE NOTE - sponsorship can not be provided. Candidates must live in the UK with valid rights to work.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly respected financial services organisation investing heavily in modern infrastructure, cloud connectivity, security transformation, and automation. You will play a key role in shaping the future-state network architecture across critical banking platforms, working on enterprise-scale transformation initiatives involving SDN, SASE, cloud networking, and zero-trust security models. The company offers a collaborative environment, exposure to cutting-edge technologies, and the chance to influence strategic architecture decisions within a regulated environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and deliver end-to-end network architecture across LAN, WAN, Data Centre, and Cloud environments
- Lead secure network design initiatives including firewalls, segmentation, IDS/IPS, and zero-trust frameworks
- Drive automation and Infrastructure-as-Code adoption using Terraform, Ansible, APIs, and CI/CD pipelines
- Define architecture standards, governance, and compliance controls within a regulated banking environment
- Support large-scale transformation programmes across SD-WAN, SDN, SASE, and cloud networking
- Collaborate with engineering, security, and infrastructure teams to deliver scalable and resilient solutions
- Provide technical leadership and guidance on best practices across networking and security domains
Required Experience
- 8+ years of experience in network engineering and/or network architecture
- Strong background working within banking, financial services, or other highly regulated industries
- Deep expertise in - Routing & Switching, Enterprise Network Security, Firewalls, IDS/IPS, and segmentation, SD-WAN, SDN, and network virtualization
- Network automation using Python, Ansible, Terraform, APIs, or CI/CD tools
- Strong understanding of architecture governance and regulatory compliance
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and lead technical initiatives
Nice to Have
- Cloud networking experience across AWS, Azure, or GCP
- Certifications such as CCNP, CCIE, cloud, or security certifications
- Experience delivering zero-trust or security transformation programmes
- Exposure to SASE architectures and modern cloud connectivity solutions