Lead Solutions Architect

Lead Solutions Architect (Managed Services & Technology Operations)

Contract: 6 months+ (Outside IR35)

Location: Central London (3 days on-site)

Day rate: 700800 per day

About the Role

Were 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.

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

Youll 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 Youll 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