Global Network Manager

What you'll bring to the team

Global Network Manager

Location: London/Hybrid

Hours: 40 hours per week

Contract: Permanent - Salaried

Merlin is undertaking an exciting global transformation focused on sustainable growth and technology‑led innovation. We are seeking a strategic and commercially driven Global Head of Network Operations to lead our worldwide network function. This is a critical leadership role responsible for delivering secure, scalable, and high‑performing network infrastructure while driving operational excellence, innovation, cost efficiency, and team development.

• Lead and execute the global network strategy, ensuring efficiency, resilience, and scalability.
• Drive cost‑optimisation initiatives, including SD‑WAN improvements, contract negotiations, and vendor performance.
• Align network operations with wider transformation goals and infrastructure roadmaps.

• Champion emerging technologies such as AI‑driven monitoring, SDN, and cloud‑native networking.
• Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement across the team.
• Implement automation tools to boost performance, reduce costs, and streamline operations.

• Oversee global network service delivery, ensuring SLAs are met and incidents are proactively managed.
• Enhance visibility and performance through advanced monitoring platforms.
• Standardise and automate processes, ensuring accurate CMDB data and efficient updates.
• Prioritise exceptional service and uptime to support guest experience.

• Lead and develop a global team of network engineers, providing mentoring, career development, and succession planning.
• Build a high‑performance culture with regular coaching and recognition.
• Ensure ITIL‑aligned service management practices are consistently applied.

• Work with security and compliance teams to ensure network architecture meets internal and regulatory standards.
• Oversee network disaster recovery planning and execution.

• Own the global network OPEX budget, including forecasting, tracking, and reporting.
• Assess network design and vendor proposals to ensure best value.
• Support asset lifecycle management to reduce technical debt and optimise spend.

• 7+ years in enterprise network engineering and operations in a global organisation.
• Proven track record in operational cost reduction, vendor management, and service optimisation.
• Deep expertise in TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, STP, QoS, BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, SDWAN.
• Hands‑on experience with Cisco, Juniper, Fortinet, and cloud networking.
• Certifications:
  
  CCNP required; CCIE or CCDP desirable.
• Experience with ITIL, Solar Winds, Cat Tools, and network automation scripting.
• Demonstrable experience working in a Managed Service Partner relationship.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead innovation and develop high‑performing teams.

• ‘Enjoy the Ride’ Merlin Annual Passes - 6 in total per year, 1 for you, plus 5 to gift to loved ones!
• Merlin Magic Pass - 20 free tickets for you, your family and friends to enjoy all our Merlin Attractions across the world rising to 40 after a year’s service.
• 33 days holiday (including bank holidays).
• Company bonus.
• Private pension scheme.
• 40% discount online off LEGO.
• 25% discount in our on‑site retail shops and restaurants.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Plus, many more…

If you have any questions or if you require any assistance, because of a disability or medical condition, please contact us by email at Recruit and one of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Competitive