E2E Research Platform Technical Manager (Networking)

TL;DR

E2E Research Platform Technical Manager (Networking): Designing and operating a secure, self-service IT and networking environment for rapid experimentation and proof-of-concept development with an accent on mobile/fixed network infrastructure and cloud-native platforms. Focus on building GPU-enabled compute environments, Digital Twins, and automated orchestration to accelerate research and innovation.

Location: Hybrid in Ipswich, UK (at least three days per week in the office)

Company

hirify.global is the UK's leading communications group, operating major brands like BT, EE, Openreach, and Plusnet.

What you will do

• Lead the design, build, and continuous improvement of secure IT and networking environments supporting research and innovation.
• Develop platform capabilities including Digital Twins, AI-enabled infrastructure, and containerised environments.
• Design and maintain software and APIs to enable automated deployment, configuration, and orchestration of platform services.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across BT Research and Networks to translate business requirements into scalable platform capabilities.
• Shape platform strategy, technical roadmaps, and investment priorities in coordination with senior leadership.
• Manage the lifecycle of infrastructure assets, including GPU clusters and specialist research hardware.

Requirements

• Recognised technical expertise in IT, networking, and platform engineering with experience in complex environments.
• Proven track record of delivering laboratory, testbed, or pre-production environments for innovation.
• Strong knowledge of IP networking, routing technologies, and transport architectures.
• Proficiency in API design, cloud-native technologies, and container platforms.
• Experience with distributed systems and automation frameworks.
• Must be based in the UK and able to work from the Ipswich office at least three days per week.

Nice to have

• Experience with programmable networks, network automation, and SDN.
• Knowledge of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning technologies.
• Previous experience working within a research environment.

Culture & Benefits

• 10% on-target annual bonus.
• Market-leading pension scheme with 5% employee and 10% company contribution.
• Comprehensive parental leave (18 weeks full pay, 8 weeks half pay) and paid carers leave.
• 24/7 access to an online private GP for employees and immediate family.
• Discounts on EE and BT mobile and broadband products.
• Flexible holiday purchase scheme.