Lotus Cars builds world-class, high-performance and lightweight sports cars that are sold all around the world.

To bring the company to the level we want it to be, we are looking for a IT Network infrastructure manager – Network/Server in the Group IT Department to join us in our Global Commercial site based in Coventry.

Summary:

The Infrastructure Manager - Network and Server is responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, and maintenance of an organization's (Outside China regions) network and server infrastructure. This role involves managing the day-to-day operations of the IT infrastructure, ensuring high availability, performance, and security of the systems, and leading a team of network and server administrators. The Infrastructure Manager also plays a key role in strategic planning, capacity management, and disaster recovery planning to ensure the organization's IT infrastructure aligns with business goals.

What you'll do:

1. Network and Server Management

• Oversee the design, deployment, and maintenance of network infrastructure, including routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, and load balancers.
• Manage server infrastructure (physical and virtual), ensuring systems are optimized for performance and scalability.
• Ensure the stability, security, and availability of network and server systems by proactively identifying and resolving issues.
• Implement and manage backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity plans for network and server infrastructure.

2. Strategic Planning and Implementation

• Develop and execute strategies for network and server infrastructure aligned with organizational goals.
• Plan and manage infrastructure projects, including upgrades, migrations, and new deployments.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend solutions to enhance IT efficiency and effectiveness.
• Collaborate with IT leadership and cross-functional teams to integrate network/server infrastructure with overall IT strategy.

3. Security and Compliance

• Ensure network and server infrastructures comply with industry standards, regulations, and internal policies.
• Implement security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption to protect organizational data.
• Monitor and respond to security incidents, ensuring swift resolution and accurate reporting.
• Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and mitigate risks.

4. Performance Monitoring and Optimisation

• Monitor network and server performance using relevant tools and metrics to ensure efficiency and reliability.
• Optimize configurations to improve performance, reduce latency, and maximize uptime.
• Conduct capacity planning and forecasting to ensure infrastructure scalability.
• Implement and maintain robust monitoring, alerting, and reporting systems.

5. Vendor and Stakeholder Management

• Manage vendor and service provider relationships to ensure SLA adherence and quality service delivery.
• Oversee procurement of network and server hardware, software, and services, including contract negotiation and budget management.
• Collaborate with stakeholders (executives, department heads, etc.) to understand business requirements and translate them into technical solutions.

6. Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain comprehensive documentation of network and server configurations, processes, and procedures.
• Prepare regular reports on performance, incidents, and project statuses for management and stakeholders.
• Ensure all documentation is current, accurate, and accessible to relevant team members.

7. Troubleshooting and Incident Management

• Lead responses to network and server incidents to minimize business disruption.
• Troubleshoot complex technical issues, coordinating with other IT teams as needed.
• Implement and manage incident response plans, ensuring team readiness for emergencies.

8. Project Management

• Manage technical aspects of design and innovation projects to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery.
• Coordinate with project managers to align IT resources with project timelines and objectives.
• Monitor project progress and address technical challenges that may impact delivery or quality.
• Ensure IT deliverables meet quality standards and align with business goals.

9. Additional Responsibilities

• Perform other tasks as assigned by the line manager.

What you'll bring:

Essential:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or above in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field. Advanced certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), or equivalent are highly preferred.
• Experience in network and server administration, with in a leadership or management role.

Technical Proficiency:

o Strong knowledge of network protocols, services, and technologies (e.g., TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN).
o Expertise in server management, including Windows and Linux environments, virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V), and cloud infrastructure (e.g., AWS, Azure).
o Familiarity with security frameworks, best practices,

What we offer:

In addition to a competitive salary, you will have access to the following benefits:

• 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays.
• Pension scheme access. 
• Annual bonus - non contractual.
• Private Healthcare.
• Access to the Employee Car Ownership Scheme.
• Group income protection based on length of service.
• Family Friendly policies.
• Exclusive Employee discount, wellbeing and recognition platform #ForUSLOT.

Additional Information:

• This role will be working from our Coventry office. This role will be working on-site, full time. 
• Frequent travel might be required to visit different entities. Applicants must therefore possess the ability to travel freely without restrictions.
• Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK without VISA sponsorship.

Our Company:

Group Lotus is a leading sports car manufacturer with a 75-year long history of iconic designs, groundbreaking engineering and legendary victories on the F1 track. Today we are transforming into a truly global performance car brand focused on the electrical future. In 2022 we launched the Eletre, the world’s first all-electric hyper-SUV, and in 2023 Emeya, our fully-electric Hyper-GT.

As part of the Lotus team, you push boundaries. Those of the car industry and of your own. Every member of the Lotus family has some of the pioneering mindset of founder Colin Chapman in them.

We're not just a car company; we're a diverse mix of talent from all walks of life. At Lotus, we firmly believe that diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords but essential pillars of a thriving and successful organization. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments during the interview process. If you require any special assistance or adjustments, please let us know in advance so we can ensure a fair and accessible interview experience. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone can thrive.

Do you want to know what Sophisticated, Rebellious and Pioneering mean for Lotus? Come and take a look at our career site and join the incredible adventure:

STEP OUTSIDE THE ORDINARY - Lotus Cars