Network Manager
Job Description:Network managers help design, install and run an organisation's IT, data and telephone systems.
Job Category: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:
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