In my previous role, we experienced a sudden outage affecting multiple branches. I quickly identified the root cause as a misconfigured firewall rule. I coordinated with the security team to temporarily bypass the rule, restoring connectivity. Simultaneously, I worked on a permanent fix by reconfiguring the rule and testing it thoroughly. This approach ensured minimal downtime and prevented future occurrences.

I prioritize tasks based on the severity of the issue and its impact on business operations. Critical outages that disrupt services take precedence, followed by issues that affect a large number of users. I also consider the time sensitivity of each request and allocate resources accordingly. Regular communication with stakeholders helps in setting realistic expectations and ensuring that high-priority tasks are addressed promptly.

I implement a layered security approach, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular vulnerability assessments. I ensure that all sites adhere to a standardized security policy and conduct regular audits. Additionally, I promote employee awareness through training sessions and enforce multi-factor authentication. Continuous monitoring and prompt response to security alerts are also crucial in maintaining a secure network.

I foster an open environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their views. When conflicts arise, I facilitate discussions to understand each perspective and encourage collaborative problem-solving. I emphasize the importance of data-driven decisions and seek consensus. If necessary, I escalate the issue to higher management, ensuring that the final decision aligns with organizational goals and best practices.

I have extensive experience with network automation tools like Ansible and Python scripts. Automation has significantly reduced manual intervention, allowing my team to focus on more strategic tasks. It has improved response times, reduced errors, and enhanced scalability. For instance, automating routine tasks like backup configurations and monitoring alerts has freed up resources for more complex issues, ultimately improving overall network performance and reliability.