Role Overview and Purpose
This technical role is responsible for the configuration, administration, and maintenance of IT servers and services hosted within Microsoft Azure and private data centres. Acting as a subject matter expert, the role ensures reliability, performance, and security of core infrastructure platforms—including Windows Server setup, file servers, domain controllers, and Group Policy management—supporting the organisation’s digital operations and transformation initiatives.
The postholder will collaborate with cross-functional teams (Modern Workplace, Networking, Security, Software Development, and Service Desk) to deliver high-quality, resilient, and secure services. They will manage incident escalations, lead Problem Management, and drive operational excellence and continuous improvement within the Systems Administration function.
Key Responsibilities
Configure, administer, and maintain core IT systems and applications across Microsoft Azure and private data centres, ensuring performance, availability, and security compliance.
Proactively monitor, tune, and optimise system resources; apply updates, patches, and upgrades as required.
Implement, configure, and maintain Azure Single Sign-On (SSO) services to enable secure, seamless access to third-party SaaS solutions.
Configure, deploy, and manage Azure Application Service Plans for scalable, cost-effective hosting and performance optimisation.
Design, implement, and manage Azure Gateways (e.g. Application Gateway) for secure, high-availability access using SSL offloading, WAF, and intelligent routing.
Set up and maintain Azure Load Balancers to ensure fault tolerance and uninterrupted service for critical workloads.
Implement and maintain hybrid identity and authentication services using Azure AD Connect, ensuring seamless integration between on-premises Active Directory and Azure AD.
Design and manage hybrid file services leveraging Azure VMs, DFS, Azure File Sync, and Azure Storage to deliver high-availability, synchronised, and secure storage solutions.
Design, configure, and maintain backup and restore processes; perform regular testing to ensure data integrity and recoverability.
Contribute to the design and testing of disaster recovery solutions to maintain business continuity during major incidents.
Provide expert support for Windows Server environments, including Active Directory, file servers, domain controllers, and Group Policy.
Act as an escalation point for complex infrastructure incidents; perform advanced troubleshooting and ensure timely stakeholder communication.
Lead root cause analysis for recurring issues; develop and document preventative solutions and share knowledge across IT teams.
Collaborate across IT functions to deliver cohesive solutions and support project rollouts.
Design, deploy, and manage Azure resources—VMs, storage, networking, and PaaS offerings—ensuring security, scalability, and alignment with architectural standards.
Support and integrate on-premises infrastructure with cloud services; manage servers, storage, backup, authentication, and virtualisation platforms.
Implement and maintain security controls and monitoring, ensuring compliance with standards and best practices.
Automate routine tasks using PowerShell, Azure Automation, or equivalent tools to improve efficiency and reduce human error.
Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation, process guides, and runbooks; contribute to training and team development.
Proactively identify opportunities to enhance system performance, security, and service delivery; stay current with emerging technologies and recommend innovations for IT operations.
Skills, Experience, and Qualifications
Degree in IT, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
Relevant certifications preferred, such as:
Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect Expert
VMware Certified ProfessionalOr 5+ years’ experience in IT Systems Engineering within hybrid cloud/on-prem environments.
Proven expertise in configuring and supporting Microsoft Azure services and infrastructure.
Strong working knowledge of server, storage, networking, and virtualisation technologies.
Experience managing escalated technical incidents and collaborating across IT disciplines.
Background in implementing security controls, monitoring, and compliance frameworks.
Proficiency with automation and scripting (PowerShell, Terraform, Bicep, Python, etc.).
Essential Attributes
Demonstrated ability to manage complex technical environments and resolve high-impact issues effectively.
Strong analytical, diagnostic, and problem-solving capabilities.
Excellent communication skills—able to convey technical concepts to varied audiences.
Collaborative and team-oriented, with strong stakeholder management skills.
Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to service quality.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines independently or within a team.
Commitment to ongoing professional development and keeping abreast of new technologies.
Other Details
The postholder may be required to undertake additional duties consistent with the role and working hours as reasonably required by the company.
This job description reflects current duties but may be reviewed periodically to ensure relevance. The company will aim to agree any reasonable changes following consultation