Lead, Cloud and Datacenter Architect/Engineer (Azure)

Lead, Cloud and Datacenter Architect/Engineer (Azure)Salary: Starting at $180k + bonusLocation: Chicago, ILHybrid: 3 days onsite, 2 days remote*We are unable to provide sponsorship for this role*QualificationsBachelor's degree10+ years of enterprise IT infrastructure experience, with deep expertise in cloud platforms and data center engineeringExpert-level, hands-on experience with Microsoft Azure, Terraform, and CI/CD pipelines in large-scale production environments.Proven ownership of platform engineering, developer enablement, or cloud deployment frameworks.Demonstrated leadership in architecture and design governance, including leading design reviews and influencing enterprise standards.Strong background in cloud security governance, privileged access management, and incident response, with experience partnering closely with a dedicated CISO organization.Solid understanding of data center mechanical and electrical systems (UPS, cooling, fire suppression, power).ResponsibilitiesOwn the architecture, governance, and operational excellence of the firm’s Microsoft Azure environment, including landing zones, policy-based controls, IaC standards, and cost management.Lead developer experience and platform enablement, designing secure, compliant, and scalable deployment patterns, reusable Terraform modules, and self-service frameworks used across engineering teams.Chair and lead cloud and infrastructure design reviews, providing final technical direction and ensuring alignment with security, architecture, and financial governance standards.Serve as the internal custodian of privileged access (including Global Administrator access), ensuring strong separation of duties, independent validation of managed service providers, and proper escalation paths.Act as the incident commander for cloud infrastructure events, making real-time, business-aligned decisions and coordinating directly with Legal, HR, the CISO organization, and executive leadership.Own the strategy and operational governance of data centers, colocation facility, and global office server rooms.Lead the design and implementation of server rooms and structured cabling across global locations.Oversee preventative maintenance programs, vendor contracts, capacity planning, and Level 4 escalation for complex data center incidents.Ensure all facilities meet regulatory, audit, cyber insurance, and resiliency requirements, partnering closely with security and risk stakeholders.Represent Cloud & Datacenter Operations in firm-wide forums, including design review boards, vendor evaluations, client security audits, and executive incident command.Lead infrastructure foundations for enterprise AI and automation initiatives, working in close partnership with Applications and Information Security.Drive complex, multi-team initiatives spanning identity, networking, security operations, and application engineering—with full accountability for outcomes.