Manager, IT Systems and Network

The Manager of IT Systems and Network at Farm Credit Financial Partners, Inc. (FPI) is a strategic leadership role responsible for managing and delivering secure, scalable, and resilient infrastructure services across the enterprise. This position leads two infrastructure teams: the Network Services team, which supports firewalls, SD‑WAN, routing/switching, and NAC; and the Server & Virtualization team, responsible for Microsoft Server platforms, Exchange, Microsoft 365 components, ESXi virtualization, data center operations, and backup/disaster recovery systems.

This individual is accountable for the stability, security, and performance of core infrastructure systems, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. The role requires a proven leader with recent hands‑on technical experience, deep understanding of enterprise infrastructure operations, and the ability to guide cross‑functional collaboration while fostering a high‑performance team culture.

• Directly manage two technical teams of Infrastructure & Network Services Engineers.
• Ensure the continuous operation and security of enterprise systems including:
• Network Infrastructure:
  Firewalls (e.g., Palo Alto, Fortinet), SD‑WAN, routing/switching (Layer 2/3), VPNs, and Network Access Control (e.g., Clear Pass).
• Server & Virtualization:
  Windows Server (2016/2019/2022), Exchange/Exchange Online, DNS/DHCP/IPAM, Active Directory, and Microsoft 365 hybrid services.
• Virtualization Platforms: VMware ESXi/vSphere and storage area networks.
• Backup & DR:
  Backup tools (e.g., Veeam, Commvault), disaster recovery, and business continuity planning.
• Monitor system performance, plan for capacity, and drive initiatives for platform modernization.
• Enforce patch management, vulnerability remediation, and platform lifecycle compliance.
• Implement and maintain infrastructure security controls in collaboration with the cybersecurity team.
• Own infrastructure elements of compliance and audit readiness for patching, configuration, access controls, and DR preparedness.
• Maintain documentation for architecture, operations, recovery, and support procedures.
• Contribute to and execute against the infrastructure roadmap, including upgrades, migrations, and cloud integrations.
• Identify and implement automation and monitoring tools to streamline operations and reduce risk.
• Partner with architecture, cloud, and cybersecurity teams to support hybrid cloud strategies.
• Manage vendor relationships and licensing related to infrastructure platforms.
• Other related duties as assigned.

• Typically, 8+ years of progressively responsible experience in IT infrastructure services.
• At least 3 years of experience leading technical teams, including remote or hybrid staff.
• Hands‑on expertise in enterprise environments with:
• Network administration (firewalls, routing/switching, NAC, VPN).
• Windows Server infrastructure, Active Directory, Exchange, and Microsoft 365 integration.
• VMware ESXi/vSphere and virtualization technologies.
• Backup and disaster recovery tools (Veeam, Commvault, or equivalent).
• Proficient in vulnerability management, patching strategies, and maintaining platform currency.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including ability to convey complex technical concepts clearly to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience).

• Networking: CCNP, CCNA
• Microsoft:
  Microsoft Certified:
  Windows Server Hybrid Administrator, Exchange Online
• Virtualization: VMware VCP
• Security: CISSP, Security+
• IT Operations: ITIL Foundations or Practitioner
• Familiar it…