Group Head of Network Architecture & Operations

We’re Hiring: Group Head of Network Architecture & OperationsProTV, part of CME Group, is seeking a strategic and technically accomplished Group Head of Network Architecture & Operations to lead the transformation of the goup’s global network infrastructure. This role defines the long-term network strategy, drives modernization roadmaps and manages budgets to ensure scalable, secure, and high-performance connectivity across CME’s international footprint. The position covers enterprise and cloud networking, as well as infrastructure supporting media platforms such as Video on Demand (VoD). Broadcast experience is an advantage but not required. Frequent travel across CME’s territories will be essential to foster collaboration and maintain strong local engagement.This would be a local employment contract with ProTV (Romania), but the role is reporting to the group and serving all six CME countries: Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Slovenia.About CME Group : CME is a leading content creator and broadcaster operating in six Central and Eastern European countries. It is comprised of six television broadcasters in Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic (TV Nova), Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia, as well as Voyo, its original subscription video on demand platform. CME’s 46 TV channels reach a total of 49 million people, with market-leading channels in most of its markets. CME is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the PPF Group, a leading Czech-based investment group with operations in 25 countries across multiple industries including telecommunications and media. Behind all of our success, there is a community of people from a variety of professions, who love their work, strive to be the best every day and come up with new ideas all the timeKey ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & PlanningDefine and execute the global network architecture strategy aligned with CME’s business, cloud, and media transformation goals.Develop and maintain a multi-year modernization roadmap, setting clear milestones for infrastructure evolution and service delivery.Lead and coordinate a virtual team of network professionals across CME’s territories, promoting collaboration, innovation, and accountability.Cloud & VoD NetworkingDesign and optimize hybrid connectivity across public and private clouds (e.g., Azure, AWS, O2 Cloud), including secure interconnects, VPNs, and SD-WAN overlays.Support VoD platform infrastructure, including CDN integration, high-availability clusters, and web delivery optimization.Partner with cloud architects and platform teams to ensure seamless integration of network services with SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS environments.Infrastructure & OperationsManage high-capacity, low-latency transport networks (e.g., OTN/DWDM) for enterprise and media operations.Oversee IP management, VLAN segmentation, and multicast configurations across data centers and cloud environments.Ensure disaster recovery readiness and cross-border failover for critical services including VoD and broadcast systems.Support OperationsOversee and enhance delivery of L1–L3 network support services, ensuring stability and performance of business-critical systems.Maintain clear escalation paths, ownership, and SLA adherence in line with ITIL practices.Collaborate with IT, Broadcast, Cybersecurity, and Online units to ensure consistent support coverage and knowledge transfer.Budgeting & Resource ManagementOwn and manage the global network infrastructure budget, including cost forecasting, optimization, and investment planning.Evaluate and prioritize network initiatives based on ROI, strategic alignment, and risk assessment.Manage vendor relationships, contracts, and SLAs to ensure quality and cost efficiency.Innovation & Future-ProofingEvaluate and integrate emerging technologies such as SDN, network automation, and cloud-native networking.Drive innovation while supporting CME’s ESG goals through energy-efficient network design and sustainable practices.Security & ComplianceImplement and maintain strong network security controls, including firewalls, VPNs, NAC, and Zero Trust Architecture.Collaborate with CISOs to align network security design with CME’s cybersecurity strategy.Ensure compliance with internal governance and relevant industry standards.Promote best practices for Change, Incident, and Problem Management in line with ITIL.Media & Broadcast Support (as applicable)Support modernization of media workflows, including IP-based broadcast infrastructure (e.g., SMPTE 2110) and cloud playout.Provide architectural guidance for video transport, ensuring reliable, low-latency content delivery.Collaborate with broadcast engineering teams to enable UHD and remote production capabilities.Optimize multicast routing, synchronization (e.g., PTP), and bandwidth provisioning for high-quality video distribution.What You Will Need to SucceedExtensive experience in network architecture and operations, ideally within multinational organizations.Proven leadership in managing international teams and complex transformation projects.Strong background in strategic planning, roadmap development, and budget ownership.Expertise in IP networking, SDN, cloud networking, and network security.Experience with cloud environments, VoD infrastructure, or IP-based media workflows (advantage).Excellent communication and collaboration skills in English.Relevant certifications (e.g., CCIE, JNCIE, AWS/Azure Networking Specialty) are an asset.Commitment to continuous learning and staying current on emerging technologies and best practices.Why Join ProTVMedical Plan: Access to premium healthcare services with options to include family members.Hospitalization Insurance: Coverage through Groupama for peace of mind during unexpected medical events.Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for personal and family challenges.On-site Massage: Relax and recharge at work.Meal VouchersHoliday VouchersVolunteering Days: 4 paid days to give back to the community.📍 Location: Bucharest, Romania📑 Contract: Local with ProTV🌐 Impact: Group role serving CME Group in 6 countriesIf you’re ready to make an impact across multiple markets and work in an inspiring environment full of creative people, apply now and be part of our international journey!