Infrastructure Architect

Howdens Joinery have an exciting opportunity in our Infrastructure team for an experienced Architect to join us on a permanent basis.

You will provide technical design expertise for the continual development of the Howdens network and infrastructure technology landscape. This is a full-time role based from our office in Brackmills, Northampton 4 days per week with 1 day working from home

What will I be doing as an Infrastructure Architect?

• Identifying improvements to systems to exploit investments
• Ensuring changes to our landscape are in line with technology standards and original designs, while meeting our strategic goal
• Strategically consulted and influences an annual budget of approximately £30million, which includes capital expenditures for infrastructure upgrades and maintenance, as well as security and operational costs for ongoing support and services.
• The role does not have any direct reports but works closely with the wider IT teams of 250+ employees, including network engineers, system administrators, and support staff, to ensure the successful implementation and maintenance of infrastructure projects.
• Govern the infrastructure that supports over 12,000 users across multiple locations, (Depot, Manufacturing, and Corporate Office), ensuring high availability, performance, and security of the network and systems.
• Document and develop in-depth knowledge of Howdens' existing network infrastructure architecture and technology portfolio to identify future areas for investment and consolidation, ensuring informed decision-making.
• Create a high-level reference architecture including supporting Key Design Decisions (KDDs) and support Low-Level Design (LLD) to provide a clear and consistent framework for infrastructure development.

What we need from you

Experience across a range of infrastructure technologies including but not limited to

• Cloud infrastructure and Services
• Infrastructure as Code
• Microsoft 365
• Virtualisation technologies
• Networking
• Security
• Database technologies
• Storage
• Windows servers
• Windows clients
• AIX and Linux servers
• Experience in infrastructure designs (IaaS and PaaS)
• Excellent understanding of best practice infrastructure and network architectures
• Broad knowledge of IT and industry best practices
• A good working knowledge of IP, Ethernet, routing and switching within LAN/WAN/Data Centre/ Public Cloud environments
• Understanding of Software Defined Networking
• Experienced in network security products, for example Firewalls, IPS/IDS

What we can offer you

• Basic salary and annual company bonus
• Company car or car allowance
• Private medical insurance
• Excellent pension scheme (company contribution of up to 12%)
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays with the option to buy additional days
• Staff Discount

About Howdens:

Howdens Joinery is the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier providing thousands of products across kitchens, joinery, and hardware.  We have over 900 depots throughout the UK and Europe – making us the first choice for more than 460,000 loyal trade professionals.  Last year our sales reached circa 2.3bn, and we have an ambitious growth agenda. 

As well as the opportunity to develop within a fast paced and commercial environment, you will be part of a rewarding organisation recognised for excellence in the workplace in the Best Big Companies to Work For.

How to apply

We’re building a future where world-class service, innovation, and sustainability are embedded within our DNA. If Howdens sounds like the kind of place where you can build and develop your career, then we’re keen to hear from you. 

Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email recruitmentteam@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.

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