Sr. Team Lead - IT and network support

Palni Inc. is seeking a seasoned and proactive Sr. Team Lead/Assistant Manager - IT and network support to oversee and elevate our IT operations across all branch locations. This role involves leading and mentoring an existing IT team, ensuring seamless end-user support, and driving excellence in IT infrastructure, including asset management, networking, internet solutions, and system security.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and mentor the internal IT support team to ensure timely and high-quality resolution of technical issues across all locations.
• Establish and manage a centralized IT asset management system, overseeing the procurement, tagging, allocation, return, and disposal of hardware and software assets.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date IT asset inventory and provide regular reports to the CTO and leadership.
• Design, implement, and maintain robust LAN/WAN infrastructure to optimize connectivity and minimize downtime.
• Address and resolve persistent internet connectivity challenges; liaise with ISPs and external vendors to ensure optimal service.
• Administer and secure network environments, including managing firewalls, VPNs, and enforcing network security protocols.
• Standardize Wi-Fi configurations and ensure full wireless coverage at all branches using consistent SSIDs and access controls.
• Monitor and audit network and security logs to ensure compliance with internal policies and industry standards.
• Manage software licenses, track renewals, and ensure vendor compliance.
• Oversee system security through OS patching, antivirus updates, and effective data backup strategies.
• Define and enforce IT policies, documentation standards, helpdesk workflows, and support best practices.
• Develop and track IT KPIs and SLAs, conduct performance reviews, and drive continuous improvement within the IT team.
• Plan and lead IT projects, including system rollouts, upgrades, and branch expansions.

Required Skill Set:

• Strong hands-on experience in

  Windows Server, Active Directory, and DNS/DHCP configuration

  .
• Proficiency in managing

  LAN/WAN

  , Wi-Fi networks, firewalls (FortiGate, SonicWall, etc.), and VPNs.
• Experience with

  IT asset lifecycle management

  tools and inventory tracking.
• Familiarity with

  cloud-based services

  like Microsoft 365, Azure AD, OneDrive, and Exchange Online.
• Sound understanding of

  network security best practices

  and experience with antivirus solutions.
• Knowledge of

  ticketing systems

  , helpdesk management, and support workflows.
• Experience in

  vendor management

  for hardware, software, and connectivity.
• Strong troubleshooting and

  problem-solving skills

  across hardware, software, and network issues.
• Excellent

  documentation

  skills and ability to create SOPs and technical manuals.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills for working with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and handle escalations effectively.

Preferred Certifications:

• Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104)
• Endpoint Administrator Associate
• CompTIA Security+ or CompTIA Network+