IT Infrastructure Lead

Key Responsibilities: - Perform analysis of network, storage and system needs and contribute to design of architecture, integration and installation. - Coordinate with POS, end‑user and desktop support teams; act as escalation point for infrastructure issues. - Work with other departments to understand and meet their requirements. - Evaluate network hardware/software, recommend solutions, optimize performance and initiate recovery after failures. - Collaborate with security operations to manage system access and security. - Liaise with consultants, service providers and vendors for products and services. - Develop and mentor the infrastructure team; maintain, document and improve processes. - Define processes, operating procedures and metrics with functional leads. - Stay current on technology trends and communicate them to the team. - Oversee user account management, patch deployment, installation, configuration, upgrades, monitoring, maintenance and security of file and database servers. - Ensure high availability of billing applications. - Manage relationships with business functions and vendors to improve IT operations delivery. - Deliver key technical projects; perform cost‑benefit analysis and product comparisons. - Resolve recurring technical issues with high priority. - Measure and track SLA for key service providers. - Drive continuous process improvements for faster service delivery. - Improve performance of production applications through technology. - Motivate and mentor the infrastructure team and third‑party resources; review goals and provide feedback. - Own all IT security products and ensure zero breakdowns due to vulnerabilities. - Lead infrastructure rollouts for new stores, factories and regional offices. What We're Looking For: - Minimum 12 years of relevant experience in IT infrastructure management, preferably in large‑scale, retail store and warehouse environments. - Proven experience managing internal and partner teams, and rolling out solutions and configurations across multiple locations. - Strong knowledge of server technologies, operating systems, backups, device upgrades, OS patching and configuration management tools. - Excellent analytical skills and a track record of continuous technical and process improvement. - Experience evaluating network hardware/software and making recommendations. - Ability to work with security operations, vendors, consultants and cross‑functional teams. - Leadership skills to develop, mentor and motivate a team and third‑party resources. - Relevant certifications such as ITIL, PMP, Microsoft certifications (preferred) and a degree in engineering or technology (B.E., B.Tech, M.E., M.Tech) with at least 60% aggregate. - Commitment to continuous learning and training.