Cloud Infrastructure and Architecture SpecialistFranchise BrandsLocation – Milton KeynesFull time permanent Salary £70K + benefitsHybridWe are looking for a high end Technical Specialist within Cloud Infrastructure and Architecture for our business, Franchise Brands.Franchise Brands is an international, multi-brand franchisor focused on building market-leading businesses primarily via a franchise model. The Group currently has a combined network of over 625 franchisees across seven brands in the UK, North America and Europe.We own several market-leading brands with established trading histories: Metro Rod, Metro Plumb, Willow Pumps, Filta, and more recently, Pirtek in Europe - all of which benefit from the Group’s central support services, in particular; Franchise Support, National Sales / Account Management, Information Technology, Marketing, Finance, Recruitment and HR. What does it entail?This is a hybrid role, with presence required at our IT Head Office based in Milton Keynes. Reporting into the Head of IT Services, you will be a senior member of the IT services team and will be crucial in designing, building, and managing the cloud computing environment for the entire group across UK and Europe. Creating and executing cloud strategies that feed into the wider IT strategy. A strong technical knowledge and wide multi-skilled IT background will be beneficial as although the role is cloud focused, involvement in Microsoft 365 products and possible on-premises infrastructure could be required.Key responsibilities and accountabilities:Deliver the group’s cloud strategySet up, migrate and define cloud infrastructure in AzureCost optimisation for cloud infrastructure and licensingCollaboration with development teamsMonitor cloud activity to address security vulnerabilities and maintain a secure cloud environmentMigrate services to SaaS where possibleAzure DR and site replicationManagement of 3rd party service providersKey IT project team memberKey stakeholder management throughout the groupWhat are we looking for?The ideal candidate will be experienced in delivering cloud solutions in a secure and cost-effective manor. They will also be comfortable providing occasional leadership and assisting other member of the IT Service team and running smaller IT projects. Kubernetes experience would be an advantage.Essential:Cloud computing experience (Azure)Proficient in networking technologyStrong security focusSite replication and DR solutionsMicrosoft server solutionsDesirable:Microsoft centrally managed client solutions i.e. Entra, Defender, Intune, 365 suiteCyber security related qualificationsMicrosoft/IT qualificationsStrong Kubernetes experienceProject skillsWhat other skills and behaviours are we looking for?A good communicator with experience managing multiple stakeholder relationshipsA positive and proactive approach Collaborative and open approachBenefits25 days annual leave – plus bank holidays;Royal London, Company Pension;Group Life Assurance;Additional Paid Leave / Special Leave;Cycle to Work Scheme;Company Events;Laptop / Company Mobile;Hybrid Working / occasional homeworking;Travel subsidy / mileage;Free Eye Tests / Subsidy for Glasses;Electric Car Leasing Scheme;Electric Car Charging Points;Free Standard Parking;Employee Assistance Programme;Occupational Health Support;Employee Discounts Platform;Commitment to Career Progression, Training, Learning and Development.