The Head of Infrastructure Strategy & Architecture will lead the transformation of a complex IT estate, providing technical leadership for cloud migration, data centre consolidation, and supplier rationalisation, all within a 24/7 operational environment. This role is central to delivering secure, scalable, and modern infrastructure aligned with a cloud-first strategy and long-term business goals.

Client Details

Our client is one of the UK's most trusted brands. With operations running 24/7, 365 days a year, they are embarking on a bold and strategic transformation of their IT estate. This includes a shift to a cloud-first strategy, modernising Legacy systems, consolidating data centres, and enhancing disaster recovery, business continuity, and security capabilities. Their IT services are delivered through strategic vendor partnerships, and they are now seeking a Head of Infrastructure Strategy and Architecture to shape the future of their infrastructure and hosting landscape.

Description

As the Head of Infrastructure Strategy & Architecture, you will play a pivotal role in leading the design and engineering of infrastructure solutions that underpin the organisation's strategic transformation. You will provide expert technical leadership for complex initiatives such as data-centre migrations, cloud adoption (with a focus on Azure), and the rationalisation of suppliers and Legacy systems. Working closely with a lean team of architects and specialists, and Matrix-managing project and delivery teams, you will ensure that infrastructure and hosting services are secure, scalable, and aligned with enterprise architecture. Acting as a deputy to the Director of IT, you will support the execution of the IT roadmap, improve governance and delivery metrics, and foster strong stakeholder engagement. Your leadership will be instrumental in embedding agile, collaborative, and modern ways of working across the technology function, ensuring the organisation is equipped to meet its operational and strategic goals.

Profile

A successful Head of Infrastructure Strategy and Architecture should have:

• Proven experience delivering enterprise-scale infrastructure transformation in complex environments.
• Deep expertise in IT infrastructure, systems architecture, and cloud technologies (especially Azure).
• Strong commercial acumen, including CAPEX/OPEX management and vendor negotiations.
• Familiarity with agile delivery methodologies and modern IT operating models.
• A collaborative leadership style, with the ability to influence and mentor at all levels.
• Knowledge of ITIL best practices and a commitment to operational excellence.
• A degree (or equivalent experience) in a relevant technical discipline.

Job Offer

• A competitive salary range of £90,000 to £95,000, depending on experience.
• Performance-based bonus scheme.
• Hybrid working in either Birmingham, Manchester, or Bristol.
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Pension scheme with up to 6.5% employer contribution.
• Life assurance up to 10x salary.
• 24/7 confidential support service for you and your family.
• Car salary sacrifice scheme, including electric vehicle options.