Solution Architect - Network Technology - £550-£650 per day - Outside IR35 - Hybrid 2-3 days a week at a site near Bath.
My client is looking for a highly motivated Solution Architect to join their dynamic team and lead the development of winning technical solutions. This role requires close collaboration with internal teams, suppliers, and customers to design, deliver, and manage robust network and cloud infrastructures.
Applicants with active SC clearance will be prioritised, applicants must be eligible to obtain DV clearance.
Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will be responsible for:
Solution Design & Delivery
- Lead technical strategy discussions with senior customer stakeholders to align solutions with business objectives.
- Develop and present technical options papers to support strategic decision-making.
- Provide consultancy services to customers, offering expert advice on network and cloud solutions.
- Create and cost solutions in response to customer requirements, including RFPs and RFIs.
- Produce detailed solution descriptions and compliance documentation as part of bid responses.
- Present technical solutions to customers, demonstrating value, security, and scalability.
- Develop technical specifications, network architecture documentation, and other essential design materials.
Cloud Integration
- Design and implement cloud-based solutions using platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
- Collaborate with cloud providers and partners to integrate cloud services with on-premises network infrastructure.
- Ensure cloud solutions adhere to security, compliance, and performance requirements.
- Leverage cloud-native technologies (e.g., virtual firewalls, VPN gateways, SD-WAN) to enhance network resilience and scalability.
- Solution Integration & Implementation
- End-to-end responsibility for the specification, design, configuration, and deployment of network and cloud solutions.
- Ensure solutions are fully integrated with other deliverables and aligned with customer requirements.
- Develop comprehensive documentation, including statements of work (SoW), handbooks, user guides, and training materials.
- Lead the successful handover of solutions into operational environments.
Stakeholder Engagement
- Collaborate with internal teams across Account, Business Development, Product, Bid, Procurement, Project, and Service functions.
- Liaise with external partners, vendors, and suppliers to identify and integrate innovative products and services.
- Engage with clients to develop budgets and strategic roadmaps for future infrastructure and cloud investments.
Required Skills and Experience
Technical Expertise
- Proven track record of delivering complex network and cloud solutions using:
- Cisco (CCNP/CCIE certification preferred)
- Juniper (JNCIP/JNCIE certification preferred)
- Fortinet (NSE 4/5/6 certification preferred)
- Palo Alto (PCNSE certification preferred)
- Cloud platforms: AWS, Azure, or GCP (certifications such as AWS Solutions Architect, Azure Solutions Architect, or Google Cloud Professional Architect are a plus).
- In-depth knowledge of networking protocols (BGP, OSPF, MPLS, VPN, VLAN, QoS).
- Experience with IT governance frameworks and security standards (e.g., ISO/IEC 27001).
- Working knowledge of TOGAF and experience with ArchiMate.
Leadership & Strategy
- Strong strategic thinking with the ability to plan and manage complex solutions.
- Experience leading technical teams and mentoring junior engineers.
- Excellent influencing and negotiation skills with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels.
Project & Stakeholder Management
- Experience managing multi-vendor environments and supplier relationships.
- Proven ability to manage budgets, timelines, and resources effectively.
- Strong client-facing skills, with the ability to build and maintain long-term relationships.
Soft Skills
- Excellent communication skills (both oral and written).
- Ability to work well under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Strong problem-solving, organizational, and time management abilities.
Preferred Experience
- Experience working in the Defence sector or within a secure government body.
- Knowledge of Service Level Management, IT Governance, and Supplier Management.
