Infrastructure manager
The Infrastructure Manager ensures that the company's IT systems and networks operate smoothly, securely and efficiently.
The Infrastructure Manager is responsible for the design, implementation and maintenance of servers, networks and databases. Their main task is to guarantee the operation and security of these systems. To do this, they implement IT security tools, manage back-ups and restores, and ensure business continuity through disaster recovery plans. In the event of incidents, they act quickly to restore the situation and minimise service interruptions.
In addition to their technical responsibilities, Infrastructure Managers supervise a team of IT specialists, planning their working hours and guiding them through their tasks.
The Infrastructure Manager has a good sense of analysis, is sensitive to security issues and can react quickly. They are rigorous and organised. Their good interpersonal and communication skills enable them to work well with different departments. They are good listeners, team players and have the ability to lead and manage a team. Lastly, he or she is flexible and adapts easily to new technologies, while at the same time being a driving force behind the continuous improvement of the service.
To become an infrastructure manager, you need the equivalent of 5 years' higher education. You may have trained at a computer engineering school or a university equivalent with a specialisation in computer science or information systems. Before taking up this post, you will need 5 to 10 years' professional experience in the field, as a systems and network administrator, network engineer, systems engineer or IT project manager.
In addition, IT certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) demonstrate advanced expertise in networking and systems security.
Infrastructure managers can progress to management positions, taking responsibility for larger teams as project managers or operations managers.
They can also specialise by becoming technical consultants, network architects or IT asset managers. With IT security a key issue in recent years, infrastructure managers can progress to IT security manager, responsible for protecting systems and data.