Director, Security & Network Operations

Overview

The Director of Security & Network Operations (Sec-Net Ops) is responsible for ensuring the stability, security, and performance of Major League Soccer’s enterprise and game-day networks. This role leads day-to-day operations, change management, and incident response for the league’s new headquarters, multi-cloud/data center environment, venue connectivity, and broadcast/media integrations. The Director manages a blended team of network and security operations engineers, fostering their growth into broader responsibilities. This is a high-visibility role where reliability, precision, and calm under pressure are essential to supporting live sports, broadcast operations, and fast-moving business needs.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day network and security operations with a focus on stability and resilience.
• Own incident response, escalation, and post-mortems for network-related issues.
• Drive discipline in change management (approvals, testing, rollbacks).
• Mentor and develop experienced Ops Engineers as they expand skillsets in security operations.
• Oversee daily operations of the MLS HQ network.
• Support enterprise connectivity for collaboration, AV, signage, security systems, and SaaS/cloud workloads.
• Manage core services: Routing, Switching, WLAN, Firewalls, VPN, NAC, DNS/DHCP/IPAM.
• Support multi-cloud and data center networking (network security elements included).
• Operate and support the EPLS network for match-day systems (VAR, Broadcast feeds, Referee comms, analytics).
• Provide on-call coverage for Live events, resolving issues with carriers or equipment.
• Support expanding Bench Technology Standards and venue connectivity projects.
• Collaborate with Media and Broadcast Studio teams to ensure uninterrupted production and distribution.
• Travel occasionally for major events (e.g., MLS Cup, All-Star).
• Manage network-related security functions (Firewalls, Routers, Switches, VPN, NAC, DNS security, IDP).
• Partner with Security Ops to integrate network and security monitoring into a centralized platform.
• Contribute to the evaluation and rollout of new Sec-Net Ops management tools.
• Support vulnerability remediation and operational security policies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, Engineering, or related field; master's preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in network and/or security operations, with at least 5 in leadership.
• Strong expertise with Palo Alto Networks, Meraki (cloud-managed networking) and Arista.
• Proven operational experience in WAN, LAN, WLAN, Firewalls, VPN, NAC, DNS/DHCP/IPAM.
• Experience supporting Live events or Broadcast networks strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with cloud networking/security (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Certifications preferred: CCNP/CCIE, CISSP, Arista ACE, Meraki CMNA.
• High-level of commitment to a quality work product and organizational ethics, integrity and compliance.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast paced, team environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrated decision making and problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail with the ability to multi-task and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Ability to travel and to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Desired skills

• Calm, disciplined, and reliable under Live sports and Broadcast pressure.
• Strong mentor and coach for Ops Engineers, fostering growth into broader roles.
• Highly collaborative with Media, Broadcast, Sporting Technology, and Security teams.
• Excellent communicator who can distill complex issues into clear actions.
• Thrives in a fast-paced, high-visibility environment where reliability and trust are critical.
• Knowledge of the Spanish Language (business proficiency).
• Knowledge of the sport of soccer.

Total Rewards

Major League Soccer offers a competitive starting base salary of $150,000-185,000, based on individual qualifications, market financials, and operational business needs. We are committed to providing a Total Rewards package that attracts, supports, engages, and retains talent. Our benefits package includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a $500 wellness reimbursement, and generous Holiday and PTO schedule to promote work-life balance. We also prioritize career and professional development, offering on-the-job training, feedback, and ongoing educational opportunities.

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