IT Network & Security Senior Specialist

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced IT Network & Security Senior Specialist to join our dynamic team in Riyadh. In this critical role, you will be responsible for the strategic management, optimization, and security of our organization’s IT network infrastructure, ensuring seamless operations, robust data protection, and compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements. Your expertise will be pivotal in safeguarding our digital assets while supporting the organization’s growth and technological advancement.

Key Responsibilities

The IT Network & Security Senior Specialist will play a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity, performance, and security of our IT network infrastructure. Your responsibilities will encompass a broad range of activities designed to enhance operational efficiency, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance with cybersecurity best practices. Below are the core areas of focus for this position:

Network Operations & Management

• Infrastructure Optimization: Lead the design, deployment, and continuous improvement of the company’s IT network infrastructure, ensuring scalability, efficiency, and alignment with organizational objectives. Implement proactive measures to enhance network performance and reliability.
• Capacity Planning: Conduct comprehensive capacity planning exercises to anticipate future network requirements. Propose and implement scalable solutions that support the organization’s growth strategy while optimizing resource utilization.
• Performance Analysis: Monitor network performance metrics to identify trends, bottlenecks, and opportunities for improvement. Recommend and implement enhancements based on industry best practices and organizational needs.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with IT teams, department heads, and external stakeholders to integrate network solutions seamlessly into the broader IT ecosystem. Ensure alignment with business objectives and technical requirements.
• Documentation & Compliance: Develop and maintain detailed documentation for network configurations, processes, and troubleshooting procedures. Ensure adherence to industry standards, internal policies, and regulatory requirements.

Network Monitoring & Troubleshooting

• Proactive Monitoring: Implement and oversee advanced network monitoring tools to detect and address potential issues before they escalate. Ensure optimal functionality and minimize downtime through timely interventions.
• Incident Response: Provide expert technical support to resolve network-related issues efficiently. Diagnose root causes, implement corrective actions, and collaborate with vendors or third-party providers to ensure rapid resolution.
• Data Recovery & Integrity: Lead data recovery initiatives to retrieve, restore, and validate critical information in the event of disruptions. Ensure data integrity and availability across the network infrastructure, minimizing operational impact.

Network Security & Risk Management

• Security Implementation: Develop and enforce robust security measures to protect the organization’s IT network, including regular audits, vulnerability assessments, and firewall management. Ensure compliance with security policies and industry standards.
• Threat Detection & Response: Monitor, identify, and respond to cybersecurity threats and incidents in real-time. Implement advanced detection mechanisms and coordinate incident response efforts to mitigate risks and protect organizational assets.
• Risk Assessment: Conduct periodic security assessments to evaluate vulnerabilities and recommend mitigation strategies. Stay abreast of emerging threats and industry trends to proactively enhance security posture.
• Security Architecture: Design and implement resilient security infrastructures, including access controls, encryption protocols, and intrusion detection systems. Ensure alignment with organizational goals and regulatory requirements.
• Compliance Management: Ensure adherence to the National Cybersecurity Authority’s (NCA) Essential Cybersecurity Controls (ECC-2) and other relevant regulations. Collaborate with legal and compliance teams to maintain regulatory compliance.
• Incident Management: Lead investigations into security breaches, coordinate response efforts, and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence. Maintain a robust incident response program to enhance organizational resilience.

Strategic Leadership & Continuous Improvement

• Policy Development: Contribute to the development and implementation of IT security policies, procedures, and strategic plans. Ensure these frameworks support the organization’s objectives while addressing evolving security challenges.
• Team Collaboration: Mentor and guide junior IT staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous learning. Promote collaboration across departments to integrate security best practices into all systems and processes.
• Innovation & Technology Adoption: Stay informed about advancements in network administration, cybersecurity, and related technologies. Recommend and implement innovative solutions to enhance network performance, security, and scalability.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel in this role, candidates must possess a combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and a commitment to excellence. The ideal candidate will meet the following criteria:

• Education: A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field. Relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM, CCNP Security, or CompTIA Security+) are highly desirable.
• Experience: A minimum of 4 years of progressive experience in IT network administration, security management, or a related field. Prior experience in a senior or leadership role is preferred.
• Technical Skills:
  • Expertise in network infrastructure design, deployment, and maintenance.
  • Proficiency in network monitoring tools, firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and SIEM solutions.
  • Strong understanding of cybersecurity frameworks, risk assessment methodologies, and compliance requirements (e.g., NCA ECC-2, ISO 27001).
  • Experience with data recovery, backup solutions, and disaster recovery planning.
  • Familiarity with cloud security, virtualization, and emerging technologies such as SD-WAN and zero-trust architecture.
• Soft Skills:
  • Exceptional problem-solving and analytical abilities.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
  • Leadership qualities with the ability to mentor and guide technical teams.
  • Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.