The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Director of Global Network Infrastructure (from a large enterprise)
3-5 years at Director levelSkills to master
- Deepen multi-million-pound P&L management, board-level reporting, strategic vendor negotiation, and leading multi-functional global network teams. Focus on enterprise-wide risk management and compliance.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully led a major global network transformation programme (e.g., SD-WAN rollout, data centre migration) from conception to completion.
- Consistently delivered on significant cost optimisation targets without impacting service quality.
- Proven ability to attract, retain, and develop senior network talent.
- Regularly presented to and influenced C-suite executives on network strategy and investment.
- 2
VP of Global Infrastructure or CTO (from a mid-sized company)
5-7 years at VP/CTO levelSkills to master
- Expand scope beyond networks to encompass broader infrastructure (compute, storage, cloud platforms), demonstrating holistic IT leadership. Develop strong investor relations and M&A experience.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully managed a broader infrastructure P&L beyond just networks.
- Played a key role in investor briefings or M&A activities.
- Demonstrated ability to align infrastructure strategy with overall business growth and product development.
- Built and led a high-performing, multi-disciplinary infrastructure organisation.
- 3
Chief Architect or Principal Network Architect (from a major technology firm)
7-10 years in an architect role, plus 3-5 years in leadershipSkills to master
- Transition from deep technical architecture to strategic leadership and organisational management. Focus on financial acumen, executive communication, and large-scale team leadership. Shift from individual contribution to enterprise governance.
You're ready to move on when
- Architected and overseen the implementation of multiple complex, enterprise-scale network solutions.
- Developed strong leadership skills through informal mentorship and project leadership.
- Demonstrated ability to translate complex technical concepts into business outcomes for senior leadership.
- Actively sought out and gained experience in budget management and vendor negotiations.