Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Additional Information
References
Timeline
ProjectManager

George J. Linnartz Jr

Technology Leader | Network Infrastructure Engineering & Operations
Raphine,Virginia

Summary

Results-driven IT leader with 30+ years of experience in network, infrastructure management and telecom across multi-site enterprises, including corporate offices, retail locations, and data centers. Expertise in designing, implementing, and optimizing secure, high-performance networks while ensuring regulatory compliance (data privacy) in complex environments.

Adept at managing ambiguity and driving business transformation through the integration of innovative cloud technologies, SASE, SD-WAN, and advanced telecom systems. Skilled at leading cross-functional teams, managing large budgets, and aligning IT strategies with organizational goals.

Overview

24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Director of Networking

Ulta Beauty
Bolingbrook, IL
08.2022 - 11.2024
  • Directed all aspects of enterprise networking for Ulta Beauty, including the design, implementation, and management of network and telecom systems across corporate offices, data centers, distribution centers, and 1,400+ retail locations
  • Managed multi-site enterprise Wi-Fi, cellular, and multi-carrier wireline solutions to ensure network security, high availability, and scalability
  • Spearheaded the adoption of SD-WAN, SASE, and cloud-based technologies, driving improvements in network performance, security, and compliance with industry standards
  • Led the design, build, and operation of highly integrated network technologies like Cato Networks SASE, Cisco, Palo Alto, F5, Aruba, Meraki, and more in data centers, corporate, and retail environments
  • Manage enterprise, distribution center and retail Wi-Fi, cellular, and over three thousand multi-carrier wireline solutions
  • Led enterprise-wide network infrastructure and telecom systems, ensuring seamless integration of voice, data, and security networks across corporate, retail, and distribution environments
  • Directed the design and operation of a multi-site network infrastructure across 1,400+ retail locations, corporate offices, and data centers, ensuring high availability and scalability
  • Spearheaded the adoption of innovative network technologies, including SASE, SD-WAN, and cloud services, driving improvements in security, performance, and scalability
  • Development of 3-year strategic roadmaps and leading large-scale network migrations and cloud implementations
  • Collaboration with senior leadership to align network strategies with business goals
  • Oversaw annual budgets for network operations and capital expenditures, managing multi-million-dollar budgets and ensuring the timely completion of large-scale network projects
  • Managed risk assessments, vendor relationships, and compliance with data privacy regulations, ensuring network security aligned with industry standards and organizational needs
  • Focused on innovation and continuous improvement, committed to the delivery of secure, high-performance networks that support growth and operational excellence

Director of Consulting Services

Network Data Systems, Inc.
Schaumburg, IL
03.2016 - 05.2022
  • Led network assessments, architecture, and design strategies for multi-site enterprise environments, including healthcare, higher education, and telecom services
  • Delivered Unified Communications, SD-WAN, and cloud-based solutions tailored to support large-scale business transformations and compliance requirements
  • Collaborated with senior leadership and clients to align network strategies with organizational goals and ensure the integration of secure, high-performance IT infrastructures
  • Delivered network assessments, architecture and design strategies, transformation, and managed services for large, multi-site enterprise environments
  • Collaborated with senior executives and clients to define network technology strategies that supported business transformation, including large-scale migrations and cloud implementations
  • Delivered comprehensive solutions in Unified Communications (UC)/Hosted Collaboration Solutions (HCS), LAN, WAN, Server, Security, and Data Center infrastructure
  • Directed business development and service delivery, building, and maintaining strong relationships with channel partners and global clients
  • Identified and pursued new business opportunities through collaborative efforts with channel partners and international client initiatives
  • Provided pre and post-sales support, including the development of tailored sales proposals, statements of work (SOWs), bills of materials (BOMs), project consulting, and work estimates
  • Developed and managed internal product/service advisory boards to ensure alignment with channel marketing strategies, focusing on wireless LAN, SD-WAN, and voice platforms
  • Managed and nurtured strategic relationships with leading product manufacturers and outsourced service vendors to ensure optimal service delivery

Director of Systems and Services

APRIZ, Inc.
Warrenville, IL
12.2011 - 03.2016
  • Directed the integration and deployment of wireless LAN, LTE/4G, and microwave backhaul solutions for national telecom carriers
  • Led multi-site telecom projects, ensuring network reliability, security, and performance across large, distributed environments
  • Focused on driving telecom infrastructure improvements and innovations, optimizing network performance and scalability
  • Developed and managed a general contracting and resource management model to deliver turnkey provisioning services across multiple markets
  • Directed network tower equipment installations for carrier turf vendors and directly supported buildout initiatives for major carriers including AT&T, Sprint, XO, and T-Mobile across the Midwest region
  • Managed multiple national tower work crews, ensuring adherence to safety standards, operational guidelines, and build specifications

Director of Services

WAV, Inc.
Aurora, IL
01.2009 - 12.2011
  • Led technical deployment services and managed contract resources for a value-added distributor of wireless broadband, networking, wireless LAN, mobile computing, IP video, and data collection/RFID solutions
  • Guided market development efforts to transition the Value-Added Distribution model to the Wireless Service Provider channel market
  • Collaborated with inside and outside sales teams to enhance skills and capabilities for engaging licensed microwave customers

President

Kruger Communications, Inc.
Burr Ridge, IL
04.2005 - 01.2009
  • Led a national wholesale network solution integrator and Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP), specializing in network consulting and installation of licensed microwave and indoor/outdoor wireless LAN solutions
  • Managed cross-functional teams, overseeing financial performance, budgetary planning, and aligning company vision to drive targeted growth
  • Negotiated contracts and leasing agreements for large-scale microwave network buildouts, ensuring favorable terms and project success
  • Directed and guided operations for multiple customer network buildouts at local, regional, and national levels
  • Led acquisitions and mergers of service provider companies, expanding service offerings and market reach

President

Everyone's Wireless, Inc.
Lemont, IL
01.2002 - 04.2005
  • Led a full-service network solutions provider with a focus on wireless LAN and microwave radio system deployment, along with lifecycle support services
  • Developed and managed operations, including the leadership of service provider personnel and the establishment of best practices
  • Drove channel market development, including the selection and management of vendor and customer relationships
  • Guided the sales and marketing team, overseeing administrative processes and day-to-day operations
  • Created a national wholesale services model with an emphasis on rapid deployment using contractor-based teams
  • Managed multiple projects, ensuring resource allocation, budget adherence, and timely delivery

Senior Technologist

Anixter, Inc.
Skokie, IL
07.2000 - 12.2002
  • Technical advisor for a leading global supplier of communications, security products, and electrical/electronic wire and cable
  • Conducted research and provided product recommendations to support sales and marketing development
  • Reported directly to VP-level management, with experience delivering presentations to large audiences
  • Held primary decision-making authority on all wireless and networking products, vendors, and program direction
  • Developed and executed a product marketing awareness campaign, driving a 60% market growth for related products
  • Collaborated with national sales teams to prepare project bids, quotes, and order requests

Education

Electronic and Computer Systems Engineering Technology -

New England Institute of Technology (NEIT)
Palm Beach, FL
01.1991

Skills

  • Effective Strategic Leadership
  • Cross-Departmental Cooperation
  • Network Security Management
  • Risk Mitigation Strategies
  • Telecommunication Management
  • Network Infrastructure Management
  • Technology Decision-Making
  • Cross-Functional Product Integration
  • Project Delivery Management
  • Financial Resource Management
  • Change Implementation Strategies
  • Organizational Development
  • Strategic Team Formation
  • Performance Improvement Strategies
  • Critical Thinking in Problem Solving
  • Creative Solution Development
  • Effective Communication
  • Strong Verbal Skills
  • Financial Profit Analysis
  • Data-Driven Performance Review
  • Strategic Business Development
  • Tactical Strategy Implementation
  • Business Growth Strategy
  • Business Development
  • Stakeholder Engagement
  • Customer Retention Strategies
  • Strategic Merger Integration Planning
  • Mergers Transition Management

Certification

  • Cisco Customer Success Manager (CSM), 08/01/21
  • Aruba Selling Products and Solutions, 01/01/21
  • IBwave Level 1/2/3 Certification, 01/01/21
  • Fortinet Level NSE 1/2/3, 01/01/21
  • VMware Technical Sales Professional (VTSP), 01/01/18

Additional Information

For more details, please visit my LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgelinnartz/

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Director of Networking

Ulta Beauty
08.2022 - 11.2024

Director of Consulting Services

Network Data Systems, Inc.
03.2016 - 05.2022

Director of Systems and Services

APRIZ, Inc.
12.2011 - 03.2016

Director of Services

WAV, Inc.
01.2009 - 12.2011

President

Kruger Communications, Inc.
04.2005 - 01.2009

President

Everyone's Wireless, Inc.
01.2002 - 04.2005

Senior Technologist

Anixter, Inc.
07.2000 - 12.2002

Electronic and Computer Systems Engineering Technology -

New England Institute of Technology (NEIT)

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George J. Linnartz JrTechnology Leader | Network Infrastructure Engineering & Operations