Network manager

Career path and progression

You'll need to keep your skills up to date, for example in mobile and 'cloud' technologies. You can do this through training and industry certifications.

With experience, you could move into:

• wider IT project management
• service planning and delivery
• information security
• business analysis
• freelance consultancy

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• analytical thinking skills
• complex problem-solving skills
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to use your initiative
• knowledge of systems analysis and development
• customer service skills
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Computer Science - Network managers need a deep understanding of how computer systems, operating systems, and software work at a fundamental level. They design and configure network architectures, troubleshoot complex technical problems, and implement security protocols – all of which require strong computational thinking and knowledge of how data moves through systems.
• Mathematics - Network managers use mathematics when calculating bandwidth, data transfer rates, IP addressing, and subnet configurations. Logical reasoning and problem-solving skills rooted in maths are essential for analysing network performance data and planning system capacity.

Also relevant

• Physics - Network managers benefit from understanding how electrical signals and electromagnetic waves transmit data through cables and wireless systems. Knowledge of physics helps when dealing with signal strength, interference, and the physical infrastructure that networks rely on.
• Business - Network managers often manage budgets, negotiate with suppliers, and align IT infrastructure with an organisation's broader goals. Understanding how businesses operate helps them make decisions about technology investments and communicate effectively with senior leadership.
• Electronics - Network managers work with routers, switches, servers, and other hardware that forms the backbone of a network. Understanding electronic components and how they function helps when diagnosing hardware faults and planning physical network installations.
• English Language - Network managers write technical reports on network performance, create documentation for their teams, and communicate complex issues to non-technical colleagues and clients. Clear, precise communication is important when explaining problems and proposing solutions.