Lead Solutions Architect (Managed Services & Technology Operations)

Contract: 6 months+ (Outside IR35)
Location: Central London (3 days on-site)
Day rate: £700-£800 per day

About the Role

We're partnered with a global technology consultancy that delivers secure, high-performing IT operations and transformation services to enterprise clients across finance, energy, real estate, and shipping.

They're seeking a Lead Solutions Architect - a hybrid role that combines hands-on technical authority with strategic and people leadership.

You'll define the technology roadmap, guide architecture across Azure, AWS, and hybrid environments, and take full accountability for team performance, budgets, vendor relationships, and senior stakeholder engagement.

This is an opportunity to shape technology direction and delivery for a growing managed services business - balancing day-to-day technical credibility with longer-term strategic influence.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute the technology strategy and roadmap, aligning architecture with business and client objectives

• Lead, coach, and mentor a team of engineers and consultants, fostering collaboration, accountability, and innovation

• Provide hands-on architectural oversight across cloud, infrastructure, and security solutions (Azure, AWS, hybrid)

• Manage departmental budgets, resource planning, and partner contracts, ensuring commercial efficiency

• Build strong, trusted relationships with C-level stakeholders and clients, advising on technology direction and investment

• Drive operational excellence, automation, and continuous improvement within managed service delivery

• Ensure compliance and security standards are maintained across all technology operations (ISO 27001, GDPR, Cyber Essentials)

What You'll Bring

• Proven experience in a Managed Services Provider or IT consultancy, supporting complex, multi-client environments

• Strong hands-on understanding of:

  • Cloud: Azure and/or AWS (architecture, migration, optimisation)

  • Infrastructure: Windows Server, Active Directory, DNS/DHCP, Intune, Microsoft 365, and Linux

  • Networking & Security: Firewalls, VPNs, routing, and endpoint management

  • Backup & DR: Experience with enterprise backup solutions (e.g., Veeam, Datto) and disaster recovery planning

  • Automation & Monitoring: Familiar with Terraform, PowerShell, Ansible, and observability tools (Azure Monitor, CloudWatch)

• Demonstrable experience managing budgets, vendors, and high-performing technical teams

• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, able to influence at both technical and executive level

• Strong knowledge of ITIL-aligned service delivery, governance, and risk management frameworks

• Certifications such as Azure Solutions Architect, AWS Solutions Architect, or ITIL Foundation preferred

Why Join

• Outside IR35 contract with autonomy and visibility

• A true blend of technical leadership and strategic responsibility

• Opportunity to shape the technology strategy of a global managed services organisation

• Collaborative, forward-thinking culture focused on innovation and client success