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Network managers are responsible for evaluating, designing, implementing and administering computer network systems within an organisation or between organisations. They may manage a company's in-house network support team, or work for an IT consultancy firm and deal with a number of different clients.

Network managers deal with four types of network system:

• Local area networks (LANs) - connecting workstations within an office, building or limited area.
• Metropolitan area networks (MANs) - linking networks citywide or across a region.
• Wide area networks (WANs) - linking national or international networks.
• Global area networks (GANs) - combining networks over an unlimited geographical area.

Network managers' key responsibilities are to make sure that an organisation's computer system has the capacity to meet its business needs and is secure. Their main duties include:

• Analysing and evaluating a client's network requirements.
• Designing and testing plans that meet those requirements.
• Making sure network plans are compatible with other computer systems.
• Supervising technical staff.
• Implementing network security measures.
• Planning preventative maintenance schedules.
• Monitoring and reporting on network performance and usage.
• Managing network growth and development.

Network managers work closely with other IT professionals and business managers to make sure systems work efficiently. See the profiles for Network Engineer and IT Project Manager.

You normally need proven experience to become a network manager. Relevant experience includes working as a network engineer, an IT support technician or an IT manager. See the profiles for Network Engineer, IT Project Manager, and Computer Service and Repair Technician for more information.

You may be able to take up a trainee position as a network manager with a company if you hold a BTEC HNC/HND, foundation degree or degree. Useful subjects include:

• Computer networks.
• Networks and communications systems.
• Computer science.
• Digital communications and networks.

Interestingly, three out of five people working in computing started out with a non-IT degree (or equivalent certification/experience).

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Network managers' salaries start between £24,500 and £31,000.
Experienced network managers earn between £34,500 and £47,000.
Senior staff with strategic responsibilities may earn in excess of £50,000.

Network managers work 37 to 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. They may need to work outside of office hours on some jobs to minimise disruption to a client's service.

As a network manager, your job is normally office-based and may be at one site or, if working on a large network operation, may involve travel between sites.

As a network manager, you need:

• Excellent IT skills and technical knowledge.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Good negotiating skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• The ability to take responsibility and be decisive.
• The ability to work within a team.
• Effective planning and organisational skills.
• Project management skills.
• The ability to work under pressure and to deadlines.
• An understanding of the client's business demands.
• A commitment to keep up-to-date with IT trends and developments.
• The ability to work within a budget.

Prospects are good, as any organisation which relies on IT systems will employ network managers and engineers. The IT and telecommunications industries are moving closer together, so there will be opportunities within that area for networking professionals.

You can also work for companies that manufacture computers and IT equipment, or those that specialise in the supply, installation and servicing of computer networks. It is possible to work abroad for a UK or overseas company.

Your options for promotion include:

• Project and information management and planning.
• Information security
• Business analysis and process improvement.
• Systems architecture and freelance consultancy.