Cloud and Infrastructure Architect Franchise Brands Fully remote (must live in the Midlands area) Full time permanent Salary DOE benefits Franchise Brands is an international, multi-brand franchisor focused on building market-leading businesses primarily via a franchise model. With over 600 franchisees and 650 employees, we own market-leading brands including Pirtek, Metro Rod, Metro Plumb, Filta, ChipsAway, and Ovenclean. Our brands benefit from centralised IT support services. What does it entail? We are seeking an experienced Cloud Infrastructure Architect to join our growing IT team. This is a newly created position reporting to the Head of Infrastructure and Security. You'll be responsible for designing, implementing, and optimising our cloud infrastructure across multiple areas of the group, while leading colleagues on technical projects and initiatives. This role offers the opportunity to work with cutting-edge Microsoft technologies in a dynamic, multi-brand environment where your technical expertise will directly support the growth of our franchise network. Key responsibilities and accountabilities: Infrastructure & Cloud Architecture Security & Compliance Data & Analytics Platform Modern Development & AI Integration Technical Leadership What are we looking for? We are looking for someone with a strong technical skillset that can really add value to the team. Experience: 10 years in enterprise IT infrastructure roles Cloud Expertise: Extensive hands-on experience with Microsoft Azure services Networking: Strong understanding of enterprise network architecture and security Infrastructure as Code: Practical experience with ARM templates, Terraform, Bicep or similar Containerisation: Working knowledge of Kubernetes and container orchestration Microsoft 365: Deep understanding of security, compliance, and administration Technical Leadership: Proven ability to lead technical projects and mentor colleagues Microsoft technologies experience and knowledge Modern development understanding Strong awareness of emerging technologies Beneficial Certifications Microsoft: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Azure Security Engineer, Microsoft 365 Certified Security: CISSP, CISMA, or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Cloud: AWS Solutions Architect (multi-cloud understanding) Network: Cisco CCNA/CCNP, CompTIA Network Benefits 25 days annual leave – plus bank holidays; Royal London, Company Pension; Group Life Assurance; Additional Paid Leave / Special Leave; Company Events; Laptop / Company Mobile; Free Eye Tests / Subsidy for Glasses; Employee Assistance Programme; Occupational Health Support; Employee Discounts Platform; Opportunity to work with cutting-edge Microsoft technologies Career development in a growing, international organisation Exposure to diverse franchise brands and business models Collaborative team environment with opportunities for technical leadership Working Arrangements This is a remote position with occasional travel required for: Site visits to UK and European locations Team meetings and collaboration sessions Project implementation and training delivery Vendor meetings and technical workshops