Head of Network & IT Operations

Key Responsibilities (as per the advertisement)

Lead overall IT operations, infrastructure, network, and support functions.

Develop IT strategies, policies, and service delivery frameworks.

Ensure the availability of network, systems, data centers, and IT infrastructure.

Oversee cybersecurity controls, firewalls, and VPNs.

Manage IT service delivery, help desk, and end-user support.

Oversee backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity plans.

Manage vendors, ISPs, OEMs, contracts, and technology procurement.

Develop and manage IT budgets and technology investments.

Lead IT teams, monitor KPIs, and ensure operational performance.

Ensure IT compliance, audits, and closure of control gaps.

Drive infrastructure improvements and cost optimization.

Key Competencies (as per the advertisement)

Strong IT leadership, people management, and stakeholder coordination.

Expertise in enterprise IT infrastructure (networks, servers, storage, data centers).

Knowledge of networking, firewalls, VPNs, Wi-Fi, and cybersecurity.

Understanding of cloud, hybrid infrastructure, virtualization, and disaster recovery.

Strong grasp of ITIL, IT service management, and operational processes.

Vendor, ISP, OEM, budget, and technology management skills.

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

Ability to manage critical incidents in a 24/7 environment.

 Additional Context & Analysis

1. About HUM Network Limited
HUM Network is a prominent Pakistani media company established in February 2004 by Sultana Siddiqui. It is a publicly listed company on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) under the ticker symbol HUMNL. The network operates several popular channels, including Hum TV, Hum News, and Masala TV, and is a member of the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU). The current CEO is Duraid Qureshi.

2. The Current IT Leadership at HUM Network
The search results reveal that Muddassir Shafique is currently serving as the Head of IT for HUM Network. He is described as a visionary ICT professional with extensive experience in project management, business development, and consultancy, with a strong foundation in networks and systems management. This indicates that the advertised "Head of Network & IT Operations" role may be a new or restructured position, or it could be a replacement for Mr. Shafique if he is moving on.

3. The IT Job Market in Pakistan
The search results for similar roles in Pakistan show a robust demand for senior IT leadership. For context:

HBL (Habib Bank Limited) is hiring a Head of Enterprise Data Network in Karachi.

Data Vault Pakistan is looking for a Senior Manager, Network and Operations.

One Network is seeking a General Manager - IT Operations in Lahore, specifically targeting retired commissioned officers from Signals/EME/ICT branches, highlighting a preference for candidates with military leadership backgrounds.

These listings suggest that the role at HUM Network is part of a broader trend of organizations in Pakistan investing in senior leadership to manage complex, mission-critical IT and network infrastructure.