Firewall Lead - Cyber & Network Security

Role Overview :

We are seeking a seasoned Firewall Lead to spearhead our Cyber & Network Security initiatives in Nigeria. In this strategic role, you will oversee the design, implementation, and lifecycle management of complex network security architectures, ensuring the integrity and availability of our enterprise infrastructure.

You will work closely with cross-functional IT teams, executive stakeholders, and external partners to align security postures with business objectives. By leading the Security Operations Center (SOC) and driving robust vulnerability management programs, you will play a critical role in safeguarding our digital assets, mitigating sophisticated cyber threats, and ensuring seamless connectivity across our global operations.

Key Responsibilities :

- Architect and deploy high-availability firewall solutions using Palo Alto, Checkpoint, and Fortigate platforms to secure perimeter and internal network segments against evolving threats.

- Lead the Security Operations Center (SOC) team to proactively monitor, detect, and respond to security incidents, ensuring minimal downtime and rapid remediation of vulnerabilities.

- Manage complex routing and switching environments to optimize network performance and security, ensuring reliable connectivity for critical business applications.

- Oversee IT governance and compliance frameworks to ensure all network security practices meet international standards and internal audit requirements.

- Integrate SIEM and monitoring tools like CheckMK to provide real-time visibility into network health and security events, enabling data-driven decision-making for the leadership team.

- Design and maintain secure VPN and remote access architectures to facilitate safe, encrypted communication for a distributed workforce.

- Drive cloud security initiatives by implementing secure configurations and monitoring protocols across hybrid and multi-cloud environments to protect data integrity.

Required Skillset :

- Demonstrated mastery in managing enterprise-grade firewall ecosystems, specifically Palo Alto, Checkpoint, and Fortigate, with a deep understanding of network architecture and traffic flow analysis.

- Proven ability to lead large-scale security operations, including the orchestration of SIEM platforms and the execution of comprehensive vulnerability management lifecycles.

- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to translate complex technical security risks into actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders and executive leadership.

- Expert-level proficiency in routing, switching, and VPN technologies, typically evidenced by a CCIE certification or equivalent industry-recognized professional standing.

- Exceptional analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with a track record of maintaining high-performance security environments in fast-paced, high-stakes business settings.

- Ability to thrive in an on-site environment in Nigeria, demonstrating cultural adaptability and the capacity to mentor diverse technical teams.

- A minimum of 15 to 20 years of progressive experience in cyber and network security, with a solid educational background in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related engineering discipline.