Network Manager

Job Description:

Network managers help design, install and run an organisation's IT, data and telephone systems.

Job Category:
IT Industry

What you will do:

You could:

  • assess a client’s computing requirements
  • design and test network plans to meet your client’s needs
  • put in place network security measures
  • plan back up and recovery systems
  • monitor and report on network performance and usage
  • identify problems and then fix them
  • manage other staff (leadership)

Skills:

You’ll need:

  • knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
  • knowledge of systems analysis and development
  • to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

As well as:

  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • analytical thinking skills
  • complex problem-solving skills
  • the ability to work well with others (teamwork)
  • the ability to use your initiative (drive)
  • customer service skills
Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
  • training with a private provider

University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree before applying for a job as a trainee network manager.

Relevant subjects include:

  • computer networking and security
  • networks and communications systems
  • computer science
  • digital communications and networks

Apprenticeship
You could complete a network engineer higher apprenticeship or a digital technology solutions degree apprenticeship.

Work
You could move into network management if you have relevant experience. For example, working as a network engineer, senior IT support technician or IT manager.

Other Routes
You may be able to get an industry-recognised certificate like Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or CompTIA Network+ through a private training provider.

You normally need to work in IT or have a high level of technical ability to get one of these certificates.

Working Hours and Environment:

You could work in an office.

Career Path & Progression:

You’ll need to keep your skills up to date, for example in mobile and ‘cloud’ technologies. You can do this through training and industry certifications.

You could move into:

  • project and information management
  • service planning and delivery
  • information security
  • business analysis
  • freelance consultancy