Senior Director, Core Technology Architect

Job description

Job Description Vertex is seeking a Senior Director, Solution Architect – Core Technology to serve as a senior individual contributor responsible for defining and driving an integrated architecture strategy across infrastructure and collaboration platforms in a global, GxP-regulated biopharma environment. This leader will establish the foundational architecture function within Core Technology and partner closely with domain leaders across cloud, network, collaboration, end-user computing, workplace technology, and service management. This role will ensure that enterprise technologies are cohesive, scalable, secure, and compliant, while helping shape a unified AI and digital workplace strategy across Microsoft 365, cloud platforms, and end-user environments. This role will partner closely with Information Security to co-architect cybersecurity capabilities across the Core Technology ecosystem and drive alignment between infrastructure, collaboration, and security architecture strategies to ensure secure, scalable, and compliant technology solutions. Key Duties and Responsibilities: Enterprise Integration & Architecture Strategy • Define and drive end-to-end solution architecture across Core Technology domains, including: • Cloud platforms, with an Azure-first strategy and existing AWS footprint • Microsoft 365 ecosystem, including Teams, Exchange, SharePoint, and Copilot enablement • Enterprise network services, including connectivity, SD-WAN, and global infrastructure • Data center and hybrid hosting environments • End-user computing across Windows, Mac, and mobility • Conference room and workplace collaboration technologies, including Zoom and Teams Rooms • ITSM and service experience platforms, including ServiceNow • Partner with Information Security to co-architect and integrate cybersecurity platforms and controls across cloud, network, workplace, collaboration, and end-user computing domains, ensuring alignment with Core Technology reference architecture, operational models, and enterprise risk requirements. • Partner with Information Security to establish shared architecture principles, technology standards, integration patterns, and governance processes that align infrastructure, collaboration, and security architecture across the enterprise • Create reference architectures, design standards, and integration patterns across technology domains • Eliminate silos and ensure interoperability across Core Technology services • Drive scalable and sustainable architectural approaches that support global business needs AI & Digital Workplace Enablement • Lead Core Technology architecture strategy to enable enterprise AI capabilities • Support AI enablement within: • The Microsoft ecosystem, including Copilot, Microsoft 365, and Azure AI • End-user productivity and collaboration platforms • Ensure AI-related solutions are securely integrated across infrastructure layers • Partner with Security and Data teams to align AI architecture with governance, privacy, and regulatory expectations • Help shape a seamless and secure digital workplace experience for employees globally Architecture Governance & Standards • Partner with Information Security to establish shared architecture principles, technology standards, integration patterns, and governance processes that align infrastructure, collaboration, and security architectures across the enterprise • Establish architecture governance processes, including: • Design reviews • Technology standards • Exception management • Serve as the central point of accountability for cross-domain architectural decisions • Ensure alignment with GxP, regulatory, compliance, and security requirements • Drive lifecycle management, rationalization, and modernization of Core Technology platforms Cross-Functional Leadership & Influence • Operate as a peer to Directors across Network, Cloud, EUC, Collaboration, and related domains. • Serve as the primary Core Technology architecture partner to Information Security, driving joint architecture reviews, technology evaluations, integration decisions, and long-term platform strategy. • Influence technical direction across a federated organization without direct authority • Partner closely with Information Security, Data Services, and Application teams to define and maintain a unified infrastructure, collaboration, and security architecture strategy and roadmap. • Act as a trusted advisor to senior DTE leadership on technology strategy, investments, and roadmap decisions • Balance strategic vision with practical execution to accelerate business value Vendor & Partner Alignment • Shape architecture strategy in partnership with key vendors and service providers, including: • Microsoft (Azure, M365) • Cisco, Palo Alto, Verizon, AT&T (network and security) • Zoom (collaboration) • ServiceNow (ITSM) • Accenture (managed services and operations) • Lenovo, Dell, Apple (end-user computing) • Ensure third-party solutions align with enterprise architecture standards and long-term technology strategy • Support effective vendor collaboration to deliver secure, compliant, and high-performing services Operational Alignment • Ensure solutions are designed for operability in partnership with outsourced operations teams • Drive consistency between architecture and service delivery models, including Service Desk and Deskside Support • Improve end-user experience, supportability, and reliability through cohesive technical design • Strengthen alignment between architecture, engineering, and operations Knowledge and Skills: • Azure architecture and cloud services - AWS cloud environments - Microsoft 365 ecosystem - Microsoft Teams – Exchange - SharePoint - Microsoft Copilot - Azure AI - Enterprise networking and infrastructure - SD-WAN • Security architecture alignment and experience co-architecting cybersecurity technologies including identity, endpoint protection, network security, zero-trust, and cloud security solutions. • Data center and hybr