Solution Architect in Reading, Berkshire

Solution Architect
Hybrid with travel to Reading or Havant

The role plays a leading part in the development of an Information Governance Framework based on M365 tooling. This will involve defining strategy and solutions to meet requirements, specifically concerning Data Lifecycle, eDiscovery, Monitoring and Reporting. Experience of using Microsoft Graph API and Microsoft Purview Compliance Portal including Azure Information Protection (AIP) is important.

This is a large project which is moving to a proof-of-concept phase, so a proven track record of delivery is essential. A good knowledge of the Utilities sector and a track record of Infrastructure Architecture elements would be advantageous.

In addition, the role requires experience relevant to the upgrade of Microsoft Teams MTR devices to improve end-user experience by defining infrastructure blueprints, repeatable solutions and secure deployment methods. This will be achieved by monitoring devices via M365 tooling such as Microsoft Endpoint Manager (MEM) and Azure Monitor. The role will involve working closely with Enterprise Architects and business stakeholders to architect our To-Be state.

Candidates should have experience of:
* Microsoft Purview including Azure Information Protection (AIP)
* Microsoft Endpoint Manager (MEM)
* Microsoft Graph API
* Azure services including Azure Monitor, Exchange Online, AAD, SQL
* Microsoft Office 365 productivity suite (Teams, SharePoint, One Drive)
* Cyber Security disciplines (National Cyber Security Centre Best Practices, NIST, Cloud focused Authentication methods & Policies)
* Technical Authoring, Stakeholder Management, Data Analysis

The role will require excellent stakeholder management, analytical and technical skills. Also, by collaborating with the project management team, Solution Architects mitigate the risks of product misalignment with stakeholder requirements and ensure that the solution fits the defined purpose.

Candidates will require a minimum of five years of relevant (or equivalent) of hands-on Solution or Infrastructure Architecture design and implementation experience.

The ability to manage detail, communicate well, negotiate effectively and be highly organised are essential skills for this role. There is a requirement to understand the As-Is and be able to provide a clear vision of the To-Be through clear written, presentation and verbal communication.

The role will report into Solution Architecture, but day-to-day work assignments will be the responsibility of the Group IT Senior Business Partner.

Key Accountabilities
* Delivers high-level solution models and solution architectures in line with business requirements, organisation and industry standards
* Ensures compliance of all high-level solution models and solution architectures to the Target Architecture, roadmaps, architecture principles and standards
* Assesses the impact of business change requests on the existing architecture and support the prioritisation of these changes
* Provides direction and guidance on projects ensuring adherence to Architecture and Design standards and the Target Architecture
* Works with the project stakeholders to understand the business requirements so that recommended solution options provide the best fit against requirements and budget
* Creates solution options and solution architectures, ensuring any deviations to the standards are handled through the Architecture Governance process
* Be accountable for the viability of proposed solutions and provides direction, advice and guidance on the appropriate approach to the solution throughout the project
* Performs the design authority role on projects ensuring that the detailed designs and solutions delivered align to the solution architecture, managing and resolving any design issues as they arise

Responsibilities:
* Manages activities that take place during solution ideation, solution design, and solution implementation.
* Communicates the architecture to the stakeholders and collaborates and coordinates with existing Infrastructure Architects in the formalization and adoption of IT standards and procedures.
* Champions a structured approach to business application solutions.
* Assures solutions not only are a fit for the specific purpose but also closely align with the standards guidelines of technology solutions.
* Influences changes to standards when necessary.
* Assists Infrastructure Architecture team on solutions management and timing of financial spend for application solutions.
* Supports the architectural aspects of all application projects in peer IT portfolios.
* Directs the identification and recommendation of appropriate solutions, upgrades, replacements, or decommissioning options incorporating business and technology productivity, usability, and ownership.
* Develops and executes solutions which further reduce the percentage of time spent on reactive work.
* Provides analysis of security protection technologies as necessary.

Technical skillset and Experience:
High level of proficiency with general toolsets including Excel (Power Queries, Pivot), Word, PowerPoint, SharePoint and Teams
Skills and Experience:
* Ability to quickly comprehend the functions and capabilities of new or existing technologies
* Strong communication skills, capable of explaining complex technical problems in a simple, structured and compelling way to business stakeholders
* Analytical and problem-solving skills
* Ability to work under indirect supervision
* Broad understanding of information technology topics
* Effective interpersonal skills and collaborative management style to include teamwork and team building ability
* Comfortable with ambiguity and time spent outside of comfort zone acquiring new skills
* Flexible in a fast-paced dynamic environment with shifting roles and responsibilities
* Technically creative and open-minded

Disclaimer:

This vacancy is being advertised by either Advanced Resource Managers Limited, Advanced Resource Managers IT Limited or Advanced Resource Managers Engineering Limited ("ARM"). ARM is a specialist talent acquisition and management consultancy. We provide technical contingency recruitment and a portfolio of more complex resource solutions. Our specialist recruitment divisions cover the entire technical arena, including some of the most economically and strategically important industries in the UK and the world today. We will never send your CV without your permission.