Job Purpose
The Senior IT Systems Administrator will serve as the Network Lead for the Kurdistan Business Unit, overseeing the design, implementation, and maintenance of enterprise-grade IT infrastructure. This role demands deep expertise in Cisco networking, Office 365, and Microsoft 365 services, with a strong focus on performance, security, and scalability. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker and hands-on executor, capable of leading network operations and supporting advanced cloud services across The BU.
Key Responsibility
1. Network & Administration:
- Lead the design, deployment, and optimization of Cisco-based network infrastructure across Kurdistan sites
- Monitor network performance, troubleshoot issues, and implement proactive solutions to ensure high availability and security
- Manage firewalls, VPNs, switches, routers, and wireless systems with a focus on scalability and redundancy to ensure optimal network performance
- Maintain network documentation, topology maps, and configuration standards
- Administer and support Microsoft 365 services, including Exchange Online, SharePoint, Teams, OneDrive, Intune, and Azure AD
- Provide advanced support for Office 365 applications and integrations with other enterprise systems
- Oversee Windows Server environments, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and virtualization platforms (e.g., Hyper-V or VMware)
- Ensure system backups, disaster recovery plans, and business continuity strategies are in place and tested
- Collaborate with cybersecurity teams to enforce best practices and respond to threats
- Implement and manage security measures to protect sensitive data and IT infrastructure
- Provide technical support to end users, including software installation, troubleshooting, and resolving hardware issues
- Guide users through problem-solving steps and ensure the timely resolution of technical problems
- Maintain records of issues and solutions to identify trends and prevent future problems
- Guide and mentor junior IT staff and coordinate with cross-functional teams for project execution
- Support IT operations in remote sites and ensure consistent service delivery across all Kurdistan locations
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field
- Minimum 7 years of experience in IT systems and network administration
- Proven experience managing Cisco networks and Microsoft 365 environments
- Strong understanding of enterprise networking protocols, security frameworks, and cloud services
- Excellent troubleshooting, documentation, and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and lead technical initiatives
- Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or higher
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate or Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert
- CompTIA Security+ or equivalent cybersecurity certification
- ITIL Foundation or other IT service management credentials (optional but beneficial)
*Only applicants meeting the strict criteria outlined above will be contacted as part of the shortlisting process.