Principal Expert – Network Architect

***Work Location:***

*Hanoi and open to relocated*

***Level:***

*Director-equivalent (Expert track)*

***Reports to:***

*Deputy CEO*

**Job overview**

The Principal Expert – Network Architect is the technical authority for network infrastructure across the entire Vingroup. This role is responsible for setting the architecture and development direction of the network and data center (DC) facility infrastructure, ensuring the network is secure, stable, scalable and cost-optimized across its full lifecycle. The role holds Director-equivalent standing on the Expert track and advises executive leadership on network technology strategy and investment.

**Key Responsibilities:**

**1. Strategy & Architecture**

• Lead the development of the strategy and roadmap for network infrastructure (LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi, Internet) across the Group.
• Own the overall architecture for network infrastructure and DC facility infrastructure (power, cooling, UPS, cabling, etc.), ensuring seamless integration, scalability and operational efficiency.
• Set governance, backup and disaster recovery (DR) policies, and identity and access management (IAM) as they relate to network infrastructure.
• Own budget planning and lifecycle management of network hardware and software assets, from investment through decommissioning.
• Advise the Deputy CEO and executive leadership on network technology investments and long-term direction.

**2. Design & Implementation**

• Act as design authority: chair architecture reviews and approve HLD/LLD for network solutions across Vingroup member units.
• Advise on and design integrated network solutions for member units, including connectivity and integration with other systems and applications.
• Set design standards and guide the operations team on the configuration of network devices (switches, routers, access points), ensuring performance and security.
• Lead proofs of concept (POC) for new solutions and technologies; drive technology transfer and training for the operations team.

**3. Monitoring & Quality**

• Define KPIs/SLAs for network infrastructure; review periodic reports on operational status and effectiveness and drive corrective action.
• Lead root-cause analysis of severe network incidents and drive systemic remediation.
• Ensure the systems comply with security and data regulations; coordinate with the Information Security team during audits.

**4. Optimization, Vendors & Capability Building**

• Evaluate and select new network infrastructure technologies, set strategic vendor direction, and lead negotiations with key vendors and partners.
• Drive infrastructure cost optimization through consolidation, right-sizing and retirement of end-of-life assets.
• Mentor architects and engineers, and build technical standards, documentation and capability across the Division (no direct line management).

**Qualifications:**

**Must-Have**

• 12+ years of experience in networking, including at least 5 years as an architect or technical lead for large-scale systems (multi-site, enterprise group).
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Electronics & Telecommunications, or a related field; a Master’s degree is an advantage.
• Proficient in designing LAN, WAN (MPLS, SD-WAN), enterprise Wi-Fi, Internet edge and data center networks (spine-leaf, VXLAN/EVPN).
• Deep understanding of routing and switching protocols (BGP, OSPF, VLAN, STP, etc.), load balancing and QoS.
• Solid grasp of network security, IAM, zero trust and network segmentation; experience designing DR and high availability.
• Experience owning HLD/LLD, running POCs, and evaluating and selecting vendors at enterprise scale.
• Systems thinking and the ability to coordinate multiple units and mentor senior engineers.
• Executive-level communication and influencing skills: able to present to C-level, negotiate with strategic vendors and partners, and make sound technical decisions under uncertainty.

**Preferred**

• Certifications: CCIE / CCNP, Juniper JNCIE/JNCIP, Fortinet NSE or equivalent; TOGAF, ITIL.
• Knowledge of DC facility infrastructure (power, UPS, cooling, structured cabling) and related standards.
• Experience in a multi-industry conglomerate environment.
• Hybrid/multi-cloud networking and network automation (Ansible, Python).

**Language**

Business-level English required. Vietnamese native/fluent required.