Senior Cloud Solutions Architect

Position Overview:
The Senior Cloud Solution Architect will be the go-to leader for all things related to both Azure cloud architecture and Microsoft 365 implementation. This role will be pivotal in designing and executing our cloud and collaboration strategy, driving innovation and efficiency across all cloud-based initiatives.

 

You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining
scalable Azure solutions and integrating Microsoft 365 services to meet our organization's complex business requirements. In this role, you will work closely with both technical and non-technical stakeholders to deliver high quality Azure and Microsoft 365 services, ensuring that our cloud and collaboration environment is optimized for performance, security, and cost-effectiveness. This includes managing critical services like Exchange Online, Microsoft Teams, and security frameworks across the Microsoft ecosystem.

 

Key Responsibilities:

• Azure Architecture Design: Lead the design of end-to-end cloud architecture for large-scale applications using Azure services, ensuring scalability, high availability, and security.
• Cloud Strategy Development: Partner with executive leadership and stakeholders to define cloud strategies that align with business objectives, including migrations, new implementations, and cloud-native application development.
• Security and Compliance: Implement security best practices by leveraging Azure Security Center, Key Vault, Azure AD, and other Azure security features. Ensure the architecture is compliant with industry  regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, and ISO standards.
• Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD): Design and manage identity and access solutions using Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD), with deep expertise in configuring and managing single sign-on (SSO), SAML,  OAuth, MFA, and B2B/B2C directory services.
• Microsoft 365: Work closely with Microsoft 365 environments, managing and integrating services like Exchange Online, Microsoft Teams, OneDrive, and SharePoint Online to ensure seamless communication and collaboration across the organization.
• Microsoft 365 Security: Leverage Microsoft 365 security features such as Microsoft Defender, Advanced Threat Protection (ATP), Data Loss Prevention (DLP), and Conditional Access policies to secure communication and collaboration tools.
• Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity: Design and implement disaster recovery solutions using Azure Backup, Site Recovery, and geo -redundant strategies to ensure business continuity in the event of a disaster.
• Performance Optimization: Continuously monitor and improve Azure resource performance by implementing auto-scaling, load balancing, and distributed network designs.
• DevOps and CI/CD: Integrate Azure DevOps to manage CI/CD pipelines, automating infrastructure provisioning, application deployment, and testing to reduce time-to-market.
• Containerization and Kubernetes: Manage the deployment of containerized applications using Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) and Azure Container Instances. Lead Kubernetes orchestration efforts, including scaling, performance tuning, and fault tolerance.
• Data Engineering and AI: Leverage Azure data services like Synapse Analytics, Data Factory, and Databricks to manage big data workflows, develop machine learning models, and deliver actionable insights through data visualization and reporting.
• Automation and Infrastructure as Code: Use Azure PowerShell, Azure CLI, ARM templates, and Bicep to automate the deployment and management of cloud resources, ensuring consistency across environments.
• IoT Solutions: Architect and implement IoT solutions with Azure IoT Hub, enabling real-time monitoring and management of connected devices while processing data efficiently at the edge.
• Cloud Cost Management: Use Azure Cost Management tools to track and optimize spending, identify savings opportunities, and help teams stay within budget for cloud infrastructure.
• Collaboration and Leadership: Serve as a technical advisor and mentor for internal IT teams, leading architectural discussions, design reviews, and training sessions to ensure cloud initiatives align with the organization's goals

Skills and Qualifications:
Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum 10+ years of experience in IT infrastructure, cloud architecture, and operations, with 5+ years of hands-on Azure experience.
• Proven experience leading cloud architecture for large enterprise systems and working closely
  with cross-functional teams, including development, operations, and security

Technical Skills:

• Extensive hands-on experience with Azure services, including Azure DevOps, Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS), Azure Functions, Azure Active Directory (now Microsoft  Entra ID), and Azure Security Center.

• Expertise in Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD) for managing identity, SSO, MFA, and SAML- based authentication

• Proficiency in cloud automation and scripting (Azure PowerShell, CLI, ARM templates, Bicep).

• Strong skills in managing Microsoft 365 services, such as Exchange Online, Microsoft Teams, and OneDrive, ensuring security, availability, and collaboration optimization.

• Knowledge of Microsoft 365 Security features, including Defender for Office 365,Advanced Threat Protection (ATP), and Data Loss Prevention (DLP).

• Expertise in data services, including Azure Data Factory, Synapse Analytics, Databricks, and Cosmos DB. 

• Strong knowledge of cloud security, governance, and compliance frameworks (GDPR,HIPAA, ISO, SOC).

• Advanced skills in containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes) and serverless architectures (Azure Functions, Logic Apps).

•  Experience with DevOps practices, including CI/CD pipelines, infrastructure automation, and continuous monitoring.
  
  

Key Compentencies:

• Problem-Solving: Ability to quickly troubleshoot complex cloud infrastructure issues and provide solutions that improve system reliability and performance.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams, manage large-scale cloud projects, and mentor junior engineers.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts to both technical and non -technical stakeholders.
• Collaboration: Strong team player with the ability to collaborate with developers, network engineers, and business stakeholders to deliver high-impact solutions.
• Adaptability: Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where priorities and needs can shift quickly.

Certifications:

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification is required.
• Additional certifications in Azure DevOps, Security, and AI/ML are highly desirable.