Manager, Network Operations

Primary Purpose: Lead and develop a team of network engineers and analysts for the purpose of a) planning, directing, and coordinating the design, installation, maintenance, connectivity, and security of network systems, b) providing advanced support to the End-User Support Team in resolve end user hardware and software problems in an efficient, timely manner, and c) providing expertise to the Senior Director, Information Systems in the assessment of short and long-term technology plans and process objectives to support the entire organization including Business and Baseball operations, while ensuring a consistent, stable, and secure operations.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Network Operations Management & Expertise

• Oversees the comprehensive portfolio, program, process, and project management functions within the Network Operations team. This includes managing a diverse portfolio of initiatives, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and priorities.
• Provide program oversight to coordinate multiple interconnected projects, streamline efforts, and deliver measurable outcomes.
• Manage all Network Operations processes evaluating, optimizing, and implementing workflows to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Lead departmental project management including planning, executing, and monitoring individual projects to ensure they are delivered on time, within budget, and meet the desired quality standards.
• Lead all aspects of network hardware, software and related technologies (e.g., server, network, storage, telephony, virtual environments, security, disaster recovery/business continuity, etc.)
• Develop and contribute to strategies and initiatives for short-term and long-term network planning, aligned with company direction, goals, and objectives.
• Work closely with AV, Cloud, and End-User Operations teams to ensure network systems are stable and provide escalation support.
• Collaborate and Delivers products/services in alignment with business and baseball needs and objectives.
• Communicate effectively with internal clients to identify needs and evaluate alternative business and baseball solutions.
• Implement best practices for technology architecture and management.
• Ensure and contribute to stable and secure environment, incident management, product health/patching, and the asset management lifecycle.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and company policies.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to align efforts with organizational goals.
• Evaluate new technologies for appropriate use, empowering a more useful, profitable, and efficient environment.
• Manage the loss prevention of all Technology Equipment and Intellectual Property.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

People Management

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of full-time network operations technical professionals fostering career growth and development.
• Develop team skills through training, coaching, and professional development opportunities.
• Set clear goals and performance expectations for the team.
• Manage scheduling for on-call and working hours, ensuring optimal resource allocation.

Vendor Management

• Procure and manage new hardware/software, ensuring maintenance and service contracts are up to date and useful.
• Manage vendor relationships to support daily operations, ensuring contracts remain effective and valuable.
• Maintain an accurate inventory of all Network and System assets
• Regularly evaluate procurement partners to identify efficient and cost-effective relationships.

Financial Management

• Manage capital and expense budgets, ensuring compliance from approval through depreciation.
• Develop and manage budgets for various technical operations and projects.
• Allocate resources efficiently to meet organizational and client needs.

Education & Experience

• A four-year university or college diploma is required. Diplomas In the field of Computer Science or Information Systems are preferred.
• A minimum of 10-12 years of network experience and 3 years of management or team lead  experience in a technology-based operations role.
• Knowledge of and experience planning and managing budgets in excess of 1m or more.
• Knowledge of and experience planning, directing, and coordinating the design, installation, maintenance, connectivity, and security of network systems.
• Knowledge of infrastructure cabling, including structured telecommunications / network, fiber, coaxial, and broadcast, and other audio / video cabling.
• Knowledge of mechanical cooling systems used to cool Data Centers, MDFs, IDFs, etc.
• Knowledge of electrical systems used Panels, Bus Bars, Disconnects, Transformers, Automatic Transfer Switch, Generators, etc.

Job Skills

• CCNA / CCNP, VCP or VCAP, MCSE / MCSD, Certifications while not mandatory are a plus.
• Client / server networks running Microsoft Windows Server / Workstation and Linux all in a standalone and virtual environment.
• Software applications: VMWare ESX, NSX, and Horizon, Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft SQL, IIS, SharePoint, Mimecast, WorkspaceOne, Sophos Antivirus Suite, Carbon Black, Attivo, Darktrace, ProtectWise, and the ability to learn others quickly.
• Storage related software and hardware related to, but not limited to: File, Block, Tape Storage, iSCSI, FCoE, FC, RAID Levels, Backup and Disaster Recovery.
• LAN, WAN, and WLAN technologies, specifically including: Spanning Tree, OSPF, BGP, WAN Acceleration, DNS, SNMPv1/2/3, Firewalls, VPN, VoIP, Wireless Systems, and redundant, and multi-site connectivity.
• Authentication and encryption technologies including, but not limited to, 802.1X, Radius, Kerberos, NTML, PKI, IPsec.
• Implementing and deploying PaaS, SaaS, and IaaS cloud technologies (IE: Box, Mimecast, Okta, Airwatch, and others.)
• Virtual environments running VMware and Microsoft software and components.
• VoIP, Conference, and Call Center technologies.
• Software / hardware licensing and servicing agreements.
• Managing environmental equipment related to, but not limited to electrical, mechanical, space, and cabling.
• Data privacy practices and laws.
• ITSM & ITIL and industry best practices for IT Service Delivery.

Job Requirements 

• Self-motivated and eager to learn new skills as organization needs dictate.
• Strong analytical, abstract problem solving, attention to detail, troubleshooting, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communicator, collaborator, and negotiator.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills and demonstrated ability to build effective internal and external relationships.
• Proven ability to develop short- and long-term strategy as it relates to the organization and trends in IT.
• Game-day duties as dictated by job responsibilities and workload.
• Required to work 100% of all jewel events (Opening Day, Post Season, Etc.) Required to work irregular hours and long shifts as the organization dictates.
• Required to travel up to 15% (Domestic and International) to various organizational sites.

Organizational Requirements

• Reads, speaks, comprehends, and communicates English effectively in all communications.
• Represents the Cleveland Guardians in a positive fashion to all business partners and the general public.
• Ability to develop and maintain successful working relationships with members of the Front Office.
• Ability to act according to the organizational values and service excellence at all times.
• Ability to work with diverse populations and have a demonstrated commitment to social justice.
• Ability to walk, sit or stand for an entire shift.
• Ability to work extended days and hours, including holidays and weekends.
• Ability to move throughout all areas and levels of the Ballpark.
• Ability to work in a diverse and changing environment.
• Occasional physical activity such as lifting and carrying boxes up to 25 lbs.

The Cleveland Guardians are committed to developing and maintaining an environment that embraces all forms of diversity to enrich our core values, enhance our competitive position, strengthen our impact within our community, and foster a greater sense of belonging for our employees.

In this spirit, we know studies have shown that people from historically underserved groups - including women and people of color - are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job and understand that candidate may bring certain skills and experiences to the role that are not listed above, but that would add tremendous value to our organization. We would encourage you to apply, even if you don’t believe you meet every one of our qualifications described.