Manager - IP Network & Data Center

This role is based in Muscat, Oman.

About the Role

The Manager – IP & Data Center is responsible for leading the planning, implementation, integration, and optimization of ZOI’s IP backbone, IP services, and data center-related network infrastructure. The role ensures scalable, resilient, and cost-efficient IP capabilities by overseeing ASN integration, peering, IP transit, caching, capacity planning, and core node migrations, while supporting business growth, service continuity, and long-term infrastructure strategy.

Responsibilities

1. IP & DC Strategy, Architecture, and Roadmap

• Lead the planning and execution of ZOI’s IP backbone, IP services, and data center-related network infrastructure strategy.
• Drive the IP and security integration roadmap for the consolidation of Omantel and Zain ASNs and related network domains.
• Evaluate emerging IP, security, AI, and data center technologies, conduct technical trials where required, and recommend future-fit architecture and technology strategies.
• Provide technical input into annual CAPEX planning, roadmap decisions, and management reporting aligned with business priorities and infrastructure strategy.

2. Network Planning, Implementation & Integration

• Plan, scope, manage, and implement IP backbone, IP services, and related security services for internal and external customers.
• Oversee the deployment, migration, and integration of core IP nodes, platforms, and related infrastructureacross the network environment.
• Define technical specifications and support the RFP / frame agreement process for new IP platforms and infrastructure aligned with business, operational, and security requirements.
• Ensure all implementations are delivered with appropriate resilience, scalability, security, and operational readiness.

3. Interconnection, Peering & Cost Optimization

• Establish and optimize IP transit, backhaul, PNIs, caching, and peering arrangements to support performance, scalability, and cost efficiency.
• Engage with CDNs, internet exchanges, and major traffic contributors to drive localized presence, caching opportunities, and strategic interconnection in key PoPs.
• Collaborate with Global Sales and relevant stakeholders to support internet gateway optimization and broader cost-efficiency initiatives.
• Identify and implement opportunities to improve network efficiency, traffic localization, and operating cost optimization.

4. Capacity Management & Service Continuity

• Monitor network capacity requirements and lead upgrades, expansions, and optimization initiatives to support traffic growth and service continuity.
• Ensure adequate capacity readiness, redundancy, and resilience planning across the IP and DC environment.
• Support service readiness for new customer demands, network growth initiatives, and evolving infrastructure requirements.
• Maintain oversight of network performance and ensure infrastructure readiness in line with business and operational targets.

5. Operational Governance, Incident Management & Technical Assurance

• Lead the resolution of escalated IP / DC incidents, coordinating with NOC, internal technical teams, and vendor TAC teams to ensure timely restoration.
• Drive effective root-cause analysis, corrective actions, and service improvement initiatives for recurring or critical issues.
• Ensure adherence to change, incident, problem, and configuration management practices across the IP / DC domain.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date technical documentation, including network designs, configurations, diagrams, standards, and operating procedures.

6. Team Leadership & Functional Management

• Lead and manage the IP & DC function, ensuring clear accountability, prioritization, and delivery across the assigned scope.
• Supervise and develop direct reports, providing technical guidance, coaching, performance feedback, and capability development.

Education / Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications Engineering, Network Engineering, Computer Engineering, IT, or related field.
• Master’s degree is an advantage.
• Relevant certifications preferred (e.g., CCNP / CCIE, JNCIP / JNCIE, service provider / data center certifications).

Experience

• Minimum 8–10 years of relevant experience in IP networks, telecom infrastructure, or data center-related network environments.
• Experience in international telecom / carrier / wholesale environments is preferred.
• Proven experience managing technical teams, projects, or functional sub-units.

Knowledge / Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of IP network architecture, including core/edge routing, switching, MPLS, peering, and interconnection.
• Good understanding of IP transit, network performance management, and data center network infrastructure.
• Familiarity with high-availability design, including redundancy, resiliency, and failover concepts.
• Sound knowledge of service assurance, SLA management, and incident / problem / change management practices.
• Exposure to NMS / monitoring tools, capacity planning, technical documentation, and configuration governance.
• Understanding of vendor / OEM management and telecom operational security controls.

Equal Opportunity Statement

At ZOI, we are committed to diversity and inclusivity in our workforce. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals.