M365 Architect

Role: M365 Architect

Benefits: £66,000 – £90,800 + more

Location: London (Hybrid)

Job Type: Full-time

Our client is currently on the lookout for a permanent M365 Architect with a strong and proven background in this area. We are after someone that would be able to guide the strategic direction and guarantee the ongoing success of the end-user computing environment.

Responsibilities:

• Define and refine the strategic direction of M365 services, covering operating systems, device management, endpoint security, application deployment, and Identity and Access Management (IAM).
• Ensure the security, efficiency, and user-friendliness of end-user computing services.
• Maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the long-term technological infrastructure.
• Manage architectural risks and opportunities.
• Develop architectural blueprints and high-level designs aligned with business goals, staying informed on technology trends and user needs.
• Identify, assess, and integrate cutting-edge solutions into practical strategies.
• Conduct horizon scanning to assess the impact of new technologies and features.
• Oversee the transition from pilot testing to full deployment.
• Provide hands-on technical support to the Engineering team for successful M365 deployments.
• Foster innovation and continuous improvement within agile teams.
• Communicate architectural vision and principles clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Align technology strategies with business goals to maximize workplace value and efficiency.
• Build and maintain external partnerships to drive innovation and improvement.
• Lead Architecture Governance forums, ensure documentation is current, and produce reports and white papers to address management and delivery challenges.

Essential

• Microsoft Certified: Solutions Architect Expert or equivalent experience.
• Microsoft Enterprise Administrator Expert certification or equivalent experience.
• Extensive experience in architecting and deploying Microsoft Modern Workplace solutions, including Modern Desktop, Identity & Access, Endpoint Security, and Productivity services.
• Expertise in Microsoft 365 Collaboration Services (Office 365, Exchange, Teams, OneDrive, SharePoint Online), Entra ID, and Endpoint Management.
• Strong knowledge of cloud architectures, especially M365 and Entra ID.
• Proven ability to lead transitions to Microsoft 365 within complex enterprises.
• Experience in designing and deploying security strategies, including Zero Trust, using tools like Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Cloud App Security, and Azure Information Protection.
• Proficiency in Entra ID for secure user management, SSO, Conditional Access, and Entitlement Management.
• Expertise in architecting security frameworks, including defense-in-depth, automated update management, and Zero Trust principles.
• Advanced skills in managing Windows Enterprise, including Autopilot, Intune, MSIX packaging, and Windows 365 or Azure Virtual Desktop.
• Experience managing Apple devices in enterprise environments with knowledge of Apple’s device management.
• Proficient in PowerShell; Python is a plus.
• Understanding of Desired State Configuration or Configuration-as-code.
• Knowledge of Microsoft’s cloud licensing models.
• Strong interpersonal skills for collaboration and conflict resolution in complex settings.
• Ability to prioritize tasks within agile frameworks, showing responsibility and initiative.
• Excellent communication skills for engaging with diverse stakeholders, from technical teams to executives.
• Commitment to mentoring team members and fostering a culture of innovation and improvement.

Desirable

• Experience of using the Microsoft Modern Collaboration Architecture (MOCA).
• Knowledge of Azure, Power Platform and Dynamics 365.
• Experience of Data Protection regulation and Data Governance frameworks.
• ITIL certification.
• Qualified to degree level in relevant subject.