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BLACKMERE CASE STUDY:

Global Network Security Expert
 

Client Overview:

Our client, a leading health and wellness consumer products company with a vast global infrastructure, sought to enhance its network security by adding a skilled Network Engineer with a security focus to their global network team. As an organization deeply invested in protecting sensitive consumer data and maintaining operational integrity, it required a professional capable of supporting network security initiatives across multiple regions and managing a range of security tools to stay ahead of emerging threats.

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Challenge:

The client needed a Network Engineer proficient in both traditional networking and advanced security protocols who could troubleshoot complex issues across a global network while proactively strengthening security measures. Given the sensitive nature of health-related consumer data, this role demanded hands-on experience with a broad set of network security technologies, including:

  • Cisco ASA and Palo Alto firewalls, F5 technologies (LTM, GTM, APM, and BIG-IQ), and Splunk for monitoring and logging.

  • Cloud security for AWS and Azure environments, focusing on load balancers and network security groups.

  • Network Access Control solutions such as ForeScout and Cisco ISE, as well as Cisco IOS for security hardening.

  • Cloudflare management for DDoS protection, WAF, and ACL configuration.

The client also emphasized the importance of finding a candidate with a collaborative mindset, effective communication skills, and the ability to work independently while aligning security efforts with the company's commitment to health and wellness.

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Solution:

We developed a targeted search strategy to identify candidates with technical proficiency, global expertise, and a security-first mindset well-suited to a consumer-centric organization. 

Our approach included:

  1. Specialized Talent Search in Network Security: Blackmere prioritized candidates with a robust background in network security tools and cloud security platforms. We focused on individuals with hands-on experience with Cisco, Palo Alto, F5, and Splunk to ensure they could integrate seamlessly into the client’s security landscape and handle the demands of a consumer-facing environment.

  2. In-Depth Assessment of Technical and Interpersonal Skills: To meet the client’s need for both independent work and cross-departmental collaboration, we conducted assessments and interviews to evaluate each candidate’s ability to troubleshoot under pressure, communicate effectively with business stakeholders, and work seamlessly across technical and non-technical teams.

  3. Cultural Fit and Security Expertise Evaluation: Understanding the client’s commitment to consumer data security, we prioritized candidates with a demonstrated dedication to security best practices and proactive learning, ensuring they would not only manage current security needs but also drive the organization’s long-term security objectives.

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Result:

Blackmere secured a Network Engineer with a security focus who met the client’s technical, collaborative, and consumer data security needs. This individual’s expertise in network security tools, cloud security, and global expertise proved instrumental in helping the client safeguard its network infrastructure.

In their first months, the new hire:

  • Led several network security initiatives, implementing new security technologies that closed critical security gaps and strengthened the company’s data protection efforts.

  • Created and maintained accurate technical documentation, providing clarity and consistency across all global network security configurations.

  • Monitored and tuned the client’s global network security systems to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities, preventing risks to sensitive consumer data.

  • Collaborated closely with business stakeholders to align security projects with organizational goals, improving communication and cooperation across departments.

  • Managed Network Access Control appliances, conducted preventative maintenance, and contributed to the company’s compliance with security standards essential for protecting consumer data.

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Impact:

The new Network Engineer’s contributions have enabled the client to bolster its network security, providing reliable data protection across its global operations and supporting its commitment to consumer safety and privacy. Through proactive security improvements and continuous monitoring, this placement has helped ensure the integrity of the client’s network and safeguarded critical health and wellness consumer data.

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Key Takeaways:

  • Blackmere’s targeted recruitment of specialized network security talent allowed the client to secure a Network Engineer with the technical skills and security mindset needed for this essential role.

  • Our focus on assessing candidates’ interpersonal skills and alignment with security best practices ensured a seamless integration into the client’s team, effectively supporting both technical and collaborative requirements.

  • Blackmere’s understanding of the health and wellness industry’s unique data security demands enabled us to deliver a tailored solution that enhanced the client’s network security capabilities and protected sensitive consumer information.

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CASE PROFILE

Company: 

A research-driven organization advancing national security, environmental sustainability, and energy innovation through cutting-edge AI research.

Industry:

National Security and Clean Energy Research

Challenge

Identifying a technical leader with expertise in computer vision, machine learning, and secure environments to advance AI research and collaborate with high-level stakeholders.

Solution

Blackmere executed a global search targeting AI thought leaders with technical expertise, leadership skills, and mission alignment, ensuring seamless integration into the client’s high-security environment.

Impact

The new hire advanced computer vision research, led innovative AI programs, and strengthened cross-sector collaborations, driving progress in national security and clean energy solutions.

Client Testimonials:

CFO: "We just had the most amazing all-hands meeting here today... We are making such an impact. It’s mind-blowing. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!"

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COO: "You. Are. AMAZING!! You totally delivered a unicorn, and [candidate] is amazing. Well done!!"

Through strategic talent acquisition and confidential search processes, our firm played a critical role in strengthening our clients' cybersecurity capabilities, enabling them to navigate complex cyber threats and drive organizational success with confidence.

Interested in learning how Blackmere can transform your difficult-to-fill or high-profile roles? Learn more

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