Microsoft Cloud Solution Architect (Ref: 197672)

Our client operates across the energy, utilities and waste sectors, delivering technology-driven transformation to improve grid resilience, customer experience and operational efficiency. The organisation is executing a large-scale migration to Microsoft cloud platforms to centralise services, strengthen governance and modernise its IT estate while supporting regulatory and operational constraints unique to the sector.

The Microsoft Cloud Solution Architect will define and validate cloud architectures that enable secure, resilient and compliant platforms for critical business services. This role will span design authority, hands-on implementation guidance and operationalisation to ensure migrations and ongoing platform operations meet availability, security and cost objectives. Success will be measured by stable platform delivery, demonstrable reductions in operational overhead and the establishment of repeatable governance and automation patterns.

• Architect Azure landing zones and governance frameworks aligned to sector-specific compliance requirements.
• Design Microsoft 365 tenancy models, security baselines and administrative controls.
• Lead identity, access and security design across Entra ID and related Azure services.
• Author infrastructure-as-code and automation using PowerShell, Bicep or ARM templates.
• Provide technical assurance during migration waves and validate cutover plans.
• Integrate data platform components, including Microsoft Fabric where applicable, into cloud designs.
• Mentor engineering teams and act as a senior technical point of escalation.
• Partner with stakeholders to translate business requirements into enforceable platform policies.

• Extensive Azure architecture experience in enterprise or regulated environments.
• Deep knowledge of Microsoft 365 architecture, governance and administration.
• Proven capability with Entra ID, Azure security services and identity protection patterns.
• Practical experience automating cloud operations using PowerShell and IaC tools.
• Strong solution design skills with demonstrable reference architectures and patterns.
• Track record defining cloud governance, cost management and operating models.
• Excellent stakeholder communication and technical leadership skills.
• Experience delivering cloud migrations and large-scale transformation programmes.
• Desirable: Familiarity with Power Platform, SharePoint Online, Azure DevOps, CI/CD pipelines, Python or C#, ServiceNow integrations and Azure certifications such as AZ-104 or AZ-305.

• Competitive salary reflective of experience and market rates.
• Structured career development and certification support.
• Flexible hybrid working model based in London with remote days.
• Generous pension and private medical cover options.
• Paid leave allowance and enhanced family leave policies.
• Access to sector-focused training and professional networks.

Previous experience within energy, utilities or similarly regulated industries will be highly valued. Candidates who can demonstrate a blend of strategic architecture and practical implementation skills will thrive and influence a critical organisational cloud programme.