Cloud practice Head

Job description

We are seeking an accomplished and visionary Head of Cloud Center of Excellence (CoE) to lead our cloud strategy and execution, driving innovation and operational excellence across our organization. The ideal candidate will bring a robust technology background with hands-on expertise in building cloud-native solutions, cloud adoption, migration, and cost optimization, with a deep specialization in Microsoft Azure. This role combines strategic leadership with technical architecture responsibilities, requiring the ability to define go-to-market (GTM) strategies, develop differentiated cloud solutions, manage a high-performing cloud resource pool, and oversee P&L accountability. Key responsibilities Job Responsibilities: • Cloud Strategy and Leadership: • Define and execute the organizations cloud strategy, aligning it with business goals and digital transformation objectives. • Lead the Cloud CoE in delivering innovative, scalable, and secure cloud-native solutions. • Act as the primary technical and strategic authority for cloud initiatives, ensuring best practices in cloud adoption, migration, and optimization. • Technical Expertise and Architecture: • Leverage in-depth knowledge of Microsoft Azure to design, architect, and implement cloud-based solutions, with hands-on experience in architecture design and deployment. • Drive cloud migration projects, ensuring seamless transitions with minimal disruption and optimal cost efficiency. • Provide hands-on leadership in solutioning digital transformation initiatives, integrating cloud technologies to enhance business processes. • strong expertise in FinOps / Cloud Cost optimization • Resource Management: • Manage and upskill a cloud resource pool, fostering a culture of continuous learning, cross-skilling, and technical excellence. • Oversee the recruitment, mentoring, and performance management of the CoE team. • Business Development and Partnerships: • Define go-to-market (GTM) strategies for cloud offerings, creating differentiated solutions to enhance market competitiveness. • Build and nurture strategic partnerships and alliances with cloud vendors (e.g., Microsoft), technology providers, and industry stakeholders to drive innovation and growth. • Represent the organization as a thought leader in cloud technology at industry events and client engagements. • Financial Oversight: • Manage the P&L for the Cloud CoE, ensuring financial targets are met through effective budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation. • Collaborate with finance and business teams to align cloud investments with organizational priorities. • Innovation and Governance: • Champion the adoption of emerging cloud technologies and best practices to maintain a competitive edge. • Establish governance frameworks, policies, and standards for cloud usage across the organization. Qualifications & Desired Skills • Experience: Minimum of 18-22 years of experience in technology and cloud computing, with at least 7-10 years in a leadership role. • Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Computer Engineering or Information Technology or equivalent experience • Proven track record of building and scaling cloud-native solutions, with hands-on experience in cloud adoption, migration, and cost optimization. • Extensive expertise in Microsoft Azure, with a deep understanding of its services, architecture, and deployment models. Technical Skills: • Expert-level proficiency in Azure (e.g., Azure IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, Azure DevOps, Kubernetes, and cost management tools). • Strong background in solutioning digital transformation projects leveraging cloud technologies. • Hands-on experience in architecture design, implementation, and optimization of cloud environments. Leadership and Business Acumen: • Demonstrated ability to define GTM strategies, develop differentiated cloud offerings, and manage P&L. • Experience in managing and upskilling technical teams, with a focus on building high-performing resource pools. • Strong negotiation and partnership-building skills with vendors and industry alliances. Desired Soft Skills: • Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving and innovation. • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills to engage with technical teams, business leaders, and external partners. • Adaptability to fast-paced, evolving cloud ecosystems and a passion for driving technological advancement.Role & responsibilities Preferred candidate profile Perks and benefits