Enterprise Architect Network & Connectivity (SDN / Security / Data Center) (CANADA BASED CANDIDATES ONLY)

Job Description:

Role Overview

As an Enterprise Architect, you will lead the strategy, design, and transformation of modern enterprise connectivity by leveraging Software-Defined Networking (SDN), automation, and cloud integration to support large-scale global operations.

You will collaborate closely with engineering, cybersecurity, cloud, and operations teams to deliver secure, scalable, and resilient connectivity across campuses, data centers, airports, and edge environments.

This role focuses on driving enterprise network modernization, simplifying complex architectures, and enabling connectivity as a strategic business capability that supports long-term growth and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Architecture & Strategy

1. Define and drive the enterprise network architecture roadmap aligned with business and digital transformation goals
2. Lead design of SDN-based campus and data center architectures
3. Develop scalable and secure connectivity frameworks for hybrid/multi-cloud environments
4. Simplify legacy network architectures through modernization initiatives

Design & Implementation

1. Architect and oversee deployment of:
1. SD-Access fabrics (campus)
2. VXLAN EVPN-based data center fabrics
3. Enterprise routing and segmentation designs
2. Ensure high availability, scalability, and performance across network environments

Security & Segmentation

1. Design and implement zero trust principles, network segmentation, and policy-based access
2. Integrate network architecture with security controls (FW, NAC, SOC tools)
3. Ensure compliance with enterprise security standards and frameworks

Automation & Observability

1. Drive network automation strategy using controllers and orchestration tools
2. Enable network observability through telemetry, analytics, and assurance platforms
3. Improve operational efficiency via policy-driven automation

Stakeholder Collaboration

1. Work with:
1. Engineering teams for design execution
2. Security teams for compliance and risk mitigation
3. Cloud teams for hybrid connectivity
4. Operations teams for transition and support models
2. Act as a trusted advisor to business and IT stakeholders

Governance & Transformation

1. Lead enterprise transformation programs related to network modernization
2. Define standards, best practices, and architectural governance
3. Provide technical leadership in cross-functional initiatives

Technology Stack / Scope

1. Cisco SD-Access Fabric design, VXLAN overlays, policy enforcement
2. Catalyst Center (DNA Center) Automation, provisioning, assurance
3. NDFC (Nexus Dashboard Fabric Controller) VXLAN EVPN data center fabrics
4. Cisco ISE AAA, posture assessment, endpoint profiling
5. FortiManager Centralized firewall policy management
6. FortiAnalyzer Logging, reporting, and security analytics
7. FortiGate Firewalls IPS/IDS, VPNs, routing, multi-VDOM
8. BGP Routing eBGP/iBGP across enterprise & DC environments

Required Skills & Qualifications

Technical Expertise

1. Strong experience in:
1. Enterprise network architecture & design
2. Software-defined networking (SDN)
3. Data center networking (VXLAN, EVPN)
2. Deep knowledge of:
1. Routing protocols (BGP)
2. Network segmentation & security frameworks
3. Firewall and NAC technologies

Platform Expertise

1. Hands-on experience with:
1. Cisco SD-Access and Catalyst Center
2. Nexus Data Center fabrics (NDFC)
3. Cisco ISE
4. Fortinet (FortiGate, FortiManager, FortiAnalyzer)

Additional Skills

1. Network automation (Python, APIs, or similar preferred)
2. Understanding of cloud networking (AWS/Azure integration)
3. Exposure to DevOps / CI-CD practices in networking

Experience Requirements

1. Typically 10+ years of experience in enterprise networking
2. Proven experience in:
1. Designing large-scale enterprise networks
2. Leading SDN transformation programs
3. Working in multi-vendor environments

Behavioral & Leadership Skills

1. Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
2. Ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions
3. Proven leadership in driving cross-functional initiatives
4. Strategic mindset with focus on innovation and simplification

Preferred Certifications

1. Cisco (CCNP / CCIE Enterprise or Data Center)
2. Fortinet NSE certifications
3. Cloud certifications (AWS / Azure preferred)

Why This Role Matters

This role plays a critical part in transforming enterprise connectivity into a strategic enabler by:

1. Driving digital transformation initiatives
2. Enhancing security and resilience
3. Enabling scalable and future-ready network architecture