Cloud Architect

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Cloud Architect to lead the design and deployment of modern, intelligent, and automated cloud solutions within Fortune Brands Innovations.  This role will have a strong emphasis on Platform as a Service (PaaS) offerings, AI Integration, Microsoft 365 applications, and process automation, supporting our IT Infrastructure, Enterprise Architecture and business teams. The ideal candidate will play a key role in transforming enterprise IT through cloud-native design, maximizing the value of Microsoft Azure and other cloud platforms, and delivering scalable solutions that enhance collaboration and productivity.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Cloud Architecture & Strategy: Design, develop, and implement scalable and secure PaaS-based cloud architectures, primarily in Microsoft Azure, with a focus on services such as App Services, Azure Functions, Logic Apps, and Azure SQL  This includes creating architectural diagrams, documenting design patterns, and ensuring alignment with business goals and industry best practices.

• AI & Automation Enablement: Architect and integrate AI/ML capabilities using Azure Cognitive Services, OpenAI, AI Builder, etc., and drive automation workflows through Power Automate, Azure Logic Apps, and other low-code tools  This involves developing AI models, designing automation scripts, and building robust integration solutions.

• Microsoft 365 Integration: Extend and customize Microsoft 365 tools (SharePoint, Teams, Power Platform) to align with business requirements and enhance user productivity.

• Cross-Cloud Strategy: Support multi-cloud strategies and solution portability, with familiarity in AWS, GCP, and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) considered a strong asset.

• DevOps & CI/CD: Implement DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines to streamline deployments and improve development cycles across PaaS and Microsoft 365 solutions.

• Security & Governance: Define and enforce security, compliance, and governance frameworks across cloud and Microsoft 365 environments.

• Collaboration & Communication: Engage with stakeholders, product owners, and technical teams to translate business requirements into technical solutions.

• Optimization & Monitoring: Analyze and tune application and service performance, ensuring efficiency, scalability, and resilience.

Experience

• 7+ years of experience in IT and enterprise cloud architecture roles.

• 3+ years of hands-on experience with Microsoft Azure PaaS offerings (e.g., App Services, Azure Functions, Azure SQL, Event Grid).

• Deep experience with Microsoft 365 ecosystem, including Power Platform, Teams, SharePoint, and Graph API.

• Demonstrated success integrating AI/ML solutions in real-world cloud applications.

• Experience with automation platforms such as Power Automate, Azure Automation, and Logic Apps.

• Solid understanding of DevOps tools (e.g., Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions, Terraform).

• Exposure to other cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, OCI) is highly desirable.

• Experience with scripting (PowerShell, Python, or equivalent) and RESTful API integration.

Core Competencies

• Cloud-Native Design: Expertise in designing solutions using cloud-first principles and PaaS models.

• Technical Leadership: Ability to guide teams and stakeholders through complex cloud transformations.

• Problem Solving: Strong analytical skills and a methodical approach to troubleshooting and innovation.

• Communication: Capable of articulating technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

• Agility & Innovation: Able to adapt to evolving technologies and propose forward-thinking solutions.

• Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills with experience in cross-functional team environments.

• Execution & Delivery: Focused on outcomes with the ability to prioritize and deliver under pressure.

• Cost Consciousness: Works within approved budget; Develops and implements cost saving measures; Contribute to company profits and revenue as possible; Conserves organizational resources.