Network manager
Description
The network manager is responsible for the overall management and direction that an organisation's ICT network will take. The network manager also ensures the design and implementation of a computer network for an organisation is completed in the most effective and cost-efficient manner. The network manager is responsible for the formulation and implementation of network best practice policies across the organisation.
The network manager will determine the most appropriate times and ways for operational tasks to be performed by the network analyst. The network manager will develop test plans and test scripts to check load generation and will then oversee the implementation of the plans and scripts.
A network manager exhibits a combination of capabilities in line with the Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA)[1] and the Queensland Public Service Leadership competencies for Queensland Framework[2].
SFIA profile
Within the SFIA profile, the network manager has level 5 capabilities, i.e. ensures and advises on the skills outlined below.
Refer to the framework for descriptions of the seven levels of responsibility and accountability.
| SFIA skill code | SFIA skill level of responsibility | SFIA skills level descriptor |
|---|---|---|---|
Network design | NTDS | 5 | Produces outline system designs and specifications, and overall architectures, topologies, configuration databases and design documentation of networks and networking technology within the organisation. Specifies user/system interfaces, including validation and error correction procedures, processing rules, access, security and audit controls. Assesses associated risks and specifies recovery routines and contingency procedures. Translates logical designs into physical designs. |
Change management | CHMG | 5 | Develops implementation plans for complex requests for change. Evaluates risks to the integrity of service environment inherent in proposed implementations (including availability, performance, security and compliance of the business services impacted). Seeks authority for those activities, reviews the effectiveness of change implementation, suggests improvement to organisational procedures governing change management. Leads the assessment, analysis, development, documentation and implementation of changes based on requests for change. |
IT management | ITMG | 5 | Takes responsibility for the design, procurement, installation, upgrading, operation, control, maintenance (including storage, modification and communication of data, voice, text, audio and images) and effective use of IT infrastructure components and monitors their performance. Provides technical management of an IT operation, ensuring that agreed service levels are met and all relevant policies and procedures are adhered to. Schedules and supervises all IT maintenance and installation work. Ensures that operational problems are identified, recorded, monitored and resolved. Provides appropriate status and other reports to specialists, users and managers. Ensures that operational procedures and working practices are fit for purpose and current. Investigates and manages the adoption of appropriate tools, techniques and processes (including automation) for the management of systems and services. |
SFIA skillLeadership skills
Leadership competencies for Queensland describes what highly effective, everyday leadership looks like in the sector. In simple, action-oriented language, it provides a common understanding of the foundations for success across all roles. The profile describes three performance dimensions (vision, results and accountability) and 11 leadership competencies required against five leadership streams.
Leadership streams are not connected to a level or classification, but rather reflect the balance between leadership and technical skills required of an individual. Individuals can consider the value proposition of roles rather than the traditional lens of hierarchical structures or classification levels. The five leadership streams are:
- Individual contributor (Leads self and does not supervise others)
- Team leader (leads a team and typically reports to a program leader)
- Program leader (leads team leaders and/or multiple areas of work)
- Executive (leads program leaders or other executives)
- Chief executive (leads the organisation).
When developing a role description, identify the role type and then focus on the most important attributes and create a balance between SFIA skills and leadership skills.
Entry points
Generally, a network manager will be required to have a degree level qualification in information technology. A significant amount of technical skill may be acquired through industry experience; however, a degree level qualification is the usual entry point to a career as a network manager.
As well as solid technical skills the network manager will need to have high level skills in areas such as team management, strong communication and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, budgeting, problem solving, a methodical approach to work and the ability to meet deadlines and work well under pressure.
[1] The Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA) provides a common language that integrates with an organisations way of working, to improve capability and resource planning, resource deployment and performance management. This role profile quotes extensively from the SFIA, under licence from the SFIA Foundation. Information about the SFIA can be found at http://www.sfia-online.org/en
[2] The Leadership competencies for Queensland framework plays a key role in translating the governments talent management requirements into clear behavioural terms. The competencies can be utilised in talent management strategies, including workforce planning, talent acquisition, leadership development, capability development, performance management, career management and succession planning. The competences can be accessed here Leadership competencies for Queensland