Platform Architect

Kick It Out; Wembley, London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Platform Architect to lead the design of innovative IT infrastructures. This role involves collaborating with various stakeholders to create low-level architecture designs that align with strategic goals. The successful candidate will leverage their extensive experience in Azure cloud and Microsoft technologies to drive projects forward while ensuring compliance with security policies. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, this organization offers a vibrant work environment and exceptional benefits, including flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Free Lunches

Private Medical Cover

Contributory Pension Scheme

Event Day Tickets

Volunteering Days

25 Days Annual Leave

Hybrid Working Model

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in designing & managing IT architectures.
• In-depth knowledge of Azure cloud and Microsoft technologies.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical input into IT infrastructure roadmap.
• Produce low-level designs for infrastructure and business-led projects.

Skills

Azure Cloud Knowledge

IT Infrastructure Design

Microsoft Technologies

Security Policies Development

Project Management Methodologies

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science

Relevant Certifications (e.g., Azure Solutions Architect)

Tools

VMware

Cisco Routers and Switches

NetApp Storage Arrays

Fortinet Firewalls

Job description

Set the bar for greatness...

The FA is excited to be searching for a Platform Architect to join our Digital Technology division. The successful candidate will be responsible for producing low-level platform architecture designs for all IT and business product lines, ensuring that all platform standards are defined and met during delivery phases.

What will you be doing?

1. Provide technical input into the IT infrastructure roadmap, both for near-term (next 18-24 months) and long-term (3-5 years).
2. Serve as a technical design authority across both infrastructure and business-led projects.
3. Produce low-level designs across both infrastructure and business-led projects.
4. Build infrastructure proof of concepts as required for the FA roadmap.
5. Ensure projects are aligned with the wider enterprise architecture as part of the IT Strategy.
6. Identify IT infrastructure opportunities for innovation based on technical knowledge, best practices, and industry trends.
7. Act as a point of resolution for 3rd-level technical issues.
8. Collaborate with third-party suppliers and partners to implement architectural changes in the IT Infrastructure.
9. Maintain a knowledge base of emerging technologies and products.
10. Leverage vendor relationships to increase awareness of technology trends and assess potential benefits to the FA.
11. Collaborate with solution and data architects within the wider Digital Technology department.
12. Execute additional tasks as required to meet the FA's changing priorities.
13. Comply with all company policies and procedures to ensure the highest standards of health, safety, and well-being.
14. Complete a DBS check as part of our commitment to a safe environment for everyone in football, with the level of check based on the specific role activity.

What are we looking for?

Essential for the role:

• In-depth Azure cloud knowledge, preferably Azure Solutions Architect, expert certified (AZ303+AZ304).
• Experience facilitating meetings with project stakeholders to capture requirements.
• Experience in logical and physical design of secure, efficient, resilient IT architectures.
• Experience in Microsoft technologies, specifically Windows Server, AD, ISA Server, TMG, and Microsoft Security methodologies.
• Experience in developing and documenting Security policies and procedures.

Experience:

• 10+ years in designing & managing IT architectures, including MS Azure, AD/DHCP/DNS, VMWare, NetApp Storage, Cisco networking, IIS, Fortinet firewalls.

Beneficial to have:

• Good knowledge of wired and wireless networking.
• Ability to identify technology risks.
• Understanding of project management methodologies.
• Ability to break down technical projects into tasks and manage time effectively.

What's in it for you?

We offer a unique working environment at Wembley Stadium and St. George's Park, competitive salary, and benefits including event tickets, free lunches, private medical cover, pension scheme, extra leave days, and flexible hybrid working.

For more information, visit our FA Careers page: https://www.thefa.com/about-football-association/careers

We value diversity and are an equal opportunities employer. We encourage applications from everyone. A DBS check will be required based on the role.