Technical Architect

I'm currently looking for a strong hands-on technical architect with a specific background in Azure networking to join a leading insurance organisation.

Salary: £85,000 - £95,000

Location: C. London twice a week

The Role

They are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Azure Networking Architect with expertise acting as the lead for Azure and cloud networking, supporting infrastructure/applications teams and supporting the overall Platform Services technology strategy.

Responsibilities

• Design, Implement and manage robust network solutions within Azure and across global offices.
• Identify, design, and document network and security initiatives in support of Enterprise Network, Wi-Fi, Unified Communications, and & Cloud solutions.
• Provide technical guidance and support to internal teams on network related matters.
• Prepare and develop recommendation reports and presentations.
• Reviewing HLD & LLD documents to make sure they align with the organisation's architecture standards.
• Documenting standards for best practices for outsourcing partners
• Develop technical solutions, keep abreast of vendor products and services available in the marketplace.
• Be the networking lead & SME when working with IT partners and vendors.
• Participate and contribute to ongoing global networking projects.
• Participate and contribute to the Designs Approval Boards and Technical Design Authority
• Be part of the escalation team for any network related issues

Collaboration & Communication

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to address complex technical issues and projects.
• Communicate technical information in a clear and understandable manner to non-technical users.
• Escalate issues to higher-level support or management as needed.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure vendor capabilities meet business requirements.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, positive relationships with vendors through regular communication and collaboration.
• Address and resolve any issues that may arise during the vendor relationship.
• Monitor and analyse vendor performance in terms of cost-effectiveness and efficiency.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings or process improvements within vendor relationships.

Required Skills

• In depth knowledge of Azure Cloud Networking, cloud first adoption experience.
• In depth knowledge of Azure Virtual WAN inc design and implementation.
• In depth knowledge of networking protocols, cloud network architectures and encryption techniques.
• In depth knowledge of Azure Firewalls, NSG, App Gateway, IPS/IDS and VPN technologies.
• Skilled at writing HLD and LLD design documents.
• Good knowledge of Azure PaaS, SaaS and IaaS services.
• Relevant and up to date Microsoft and Cisco Networking certification.
• Excellent Knowledge of Cisco technologies inc Meraki.
• Knowledge of FortiGate firewalls.
• Excellent knowledge of routing technologies such as BGP, OSPF, HSRP.
• Excellent knowledge of SD-WAN technologies.
• Experience in deploying/implementing unified communication technologies.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex network related issues.
• Experience in ZTNA technologies is desirable.
• Provide technical guidance to the wider IT teams.
• Experience and knowledge of DevSecOps is a plus.

Functional & Behavioural Competencies required:

• Proven experience in a Senior Azure Network role is essential.
• Ability to analyse complex networking systems and environments to identify weaknesses.
• Strong vendor management skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Analytical mindset and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with outsourcing models and vendor management.
• Continuous learning mindset to keep up with new technology.