Microsoft 365 / Exchange Solution Architect
Hybrid working with 2-3 days per week onsite in Sheffield, and the remainder remote working, for an initial 3‑month contract.
*Inside IR35*
Job Description
The Microsoft 365 / Exchange Solution Architect will be responsible for designing, building, and operationalizing Microsoft 365 and Exchange solutions for enterprise customers. This role involves leading migrations, divestitures, and security implementations while ensuring compliance, performance, and minimal disruption to business operations. The architect will collaborate with cybersecurity, cloud, and application teams to deliver secure and scalable solutions aligned with organizational goals.
Key Responsibilities
* Design and implement new Microsoft 365 tenants and SMTP Relay infrastructure.
* Configure mail flow connectors, DNS records (MX/SPF/DMARC/DKIM), and security baselines.
* Perform audits of messaging environments to ensure supported versions and compliance.
Exchange Migration & Divestiture
* Lead migrations from Exchange 2013/2016 to Exchange SE and Exchange Online.
* Execute tenant‑to‑tenant migrations, domain separation, and mailbox cutovers.
* Decommission legacy Exchange servers and ensure Zero Trust principles are applied.
Security & Compliance
* Design and implement identity and access management using Microsoft Entra ID.
* Deploy and manage Data Loss Prevention policies, sensitivity labels, and Information Protection.
* Configure Insider Risk Management, Communication Compliance, and retention policies.
* Support eDiscovery, legal hold, and audit investigations.
Automation & Integration
* Develop migration runbooks, automation scripts (PowerShell, Graph API), and validation checklists.
* Provide consultation for SMTP and Graph API integration for email‑enabled applications.
* Perform bulk operations using PowerShell and Graph.
Stakeholder Governance
* Collaborate with cybersecurity and cloud teams for risk reviews, design approvals, and change control.
* Prepare architecture diagrams, compliance documentation, and operational guides.
* Deliver training and knowledge transfer to operational teams.
Required Skills & Experience
* Proven experience as a Solution Architect specializing in Microsoft 365 and Exchange.
* Expertise in Exchange Server 2013, 2016, 2019, Exchange Online, and hybrid configurations.
* Strong knowledge of Microsoft security solutions (Defender, Purview, Sentinel).
* Hands‑on experience with tenant‑to‑tenant migrations and divestiture projects.
* Proficiency in PowerShell scripting and automation.
* Familiarity with compliance frameworks (GDPR, data residency).
* Excellent documentation and stakeholder management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
* Microsoft Certified: Identity and Access Administrator Associate / Messaging Administrator Associate.
* Experience with migration tools (BitTitan MigrationWiz, ShareGate, AvePoint).
* Strong understanding of Zero Trust architecture and Secure by Design principles.
Program Management Experience
5 – 8 Years of experience in program management.
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