We are seeking a forward-thinking and experienced architect to lead the Automation / DevOps function. Acting as a DevOps advocate, you will be empowered to transform processes into streamlined workflows through innovative use of code, platforms, tools, and people. Providing a standardised approach and frameworks, your team will collaborate within the Cloud Services Group to architect, build, and help maintain solutions that drive operational excellence. You will help create a diverse portfolio of solutions ranging from targeted automation scripts to full-scale platforms with web front end functionality. Key areas include: • Assessment of existing process to determine key focus areas. • Developing robust integrations and custom APIs. • Designing and implementing automation capabilities that reduce overheads across delivery, product, and operations. • Ownership of core automated business and integration processes e.g. provisioning and billing systems. • Building and maintaining guidance frameworks to ensure standardisation across our services. Key responsibilities: Duties will include, but are not restricted to the following: • Act as the source of technical knowledge within the Automation and DevOps domain. • Act as a DevOps advocate and lead the DevOps community of practice. • Lead the team to ensure ongoing service improvement and optimisation (process / tooling / automation) in the wider group by support operational?teams in building and maintaining automation solutions. • Creation and maintenance of guidance and frameworks for development of optimisation solutions. • Ensure strategic requirements are clearly and accurately documented and considered. • Lead on internal swarm engagements to identify opportunities and prioritise optimisation activities (process / tooling / automation). • Provide guidance and training to other team members on best practices and principles. • Seeking out new technologies, tools, processes and features, then introducing those that deliver additional value.? • Stay up to date with emerging technologies and industry trends related to system reliability and performance. • Working independently and autonomously. • Although predominantly in internally focused role, you may be involved in direct customer projects as required. This list of responsibilities is not exhaustive, and the role holder is expected to reasonably take on any other responsibilities required to support business activities. Person specification The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate the following skills and experience: Skills • Microsoft technology background, particularly Azure PaaS. • Experience with source control and CD/CI tools e.g. Git, Azure DevOps, GitHub/GitLab, etc. • Experience in code development in multiple languages and other technologies • .Net (C#) • PowerShell • T-SQL • Python • Java / JavaScript • Microsoft Power Platform (Apps, Automate, BI) • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a desire to get to a resolution. • Desirable – certifications in relevant areas (Azure, DevOps, development). Knowledge • Understanding of the software development lifecycle and key development technologies with a sound familiarisation of at least one methodology (preferably Agile).? • Solid understanding of DevOps/SRE methodologies, continuous delivery and related principles with demonstrable experience using complex CI/CD implementations and IaC tools. e.g., Terraform, Bicep and ARM. • Understanding of API’s and API development. • Solid understanding of modern industry practices and how they translate into architectures and working practices. • Desirable - Awareness of Microsoft frameworks such as the Cloud Adoption Framework