Network & Infrastructure Lead

We are looking for an experienced Network & Infrastructure Lead to oversee the global network and infrastructure environment spanning global corporate offices, production sites, and manufacturing facilities. You will lead a small team of network engineers and manage external partners, ensuring the stability, scalability, and security of all network and connectivity services that keep production and business operations running across multiple international sites.This is a hands-on technical leadership role, combining architecture, operations, and vendor coordination in a hybrid IT/OT landscape.Key ResponsibilitiesAct as domain expert for all network and related infrastructure topics.Lead and mentor a team of two internal network engineers and coordinate external service providers.Design, implement, and optimize network architectures across WAN, LAN, WLAN, and data center environments.Lead complex incident resolution (2nd & 3rd line) for network, OT, and production hardware (e.g., RF scanners, printers).Manage network projects and participate in broader infrastructure initiatives — ensuring delivery within defined scope, budget, and standards.Oversee WAN provider performance and coordinate changes and escalations with third parties.Support VoIP, connectivity for application integrations, and infrastructure upgrades.Maintain network documentation, diagrams, and configuration baselines.Collaborate with business and engineering teams to understand requirements and translate them into practical network solutions.Ensure all activities comply with security and change management procedures (ITIL-based).Stay up to date with emerging technologies, ensuring continuous improvement and modernization of network operations.What are we looking for?Network & SecuritySolid experience with LAN/WAN routing, switching, and wireless LAN (preferably Cisco).Knowledge of firewalling (Palo Alto, Fortinet, or equivalent) and SD-WAN concepts.Experience with VoIP systems and network segmentation for mixed IT/OT environments.Understanding of industrial connectivity and production hardware integration (RF devices, printers, etc.).Infrastructure & SystemsBroad infrastructure knowledge including servers, virtualization, storage, and Active Directory.Good understanding of Windows 11, Office 365, hardware, and general IT operations.Experience in production or manufacturing environments with high uptime requirements.Processes & GovernanceFamiliarity with ITIL processes (incident, change, problem).Experience managing outsourcing partners and vendors in a global context.Pragmatic use of project management methodologies to plan and deliver initiatives effectively.Nice-to-Have SkillsExposure to cloud networking or hybrid network architectures (Azure, M365).Knowledge of OT network segmentation and industrial cybersecurity concepts.Basic understanding of security frameworks (ISO 27001, NIS2).Experience with network monitoring and performance tools (SolarWinds, PRTG, Cisco DNA, etc.).Fluent in English, Dutch would be nice to have What do we offer?Location: Eeklo (hybrid)Terms: Freelance or PermanentDuration: Long term