Director of Cloud & Connectivity Architecture

QED National•Homewood, AL

60d•Remote

About The Position

We are seeking a forward-thinking Director of Cloud & Connectivity Architecture to lead enterprise-wide connectivity strategy, architecture, and operations across hybrid and multi-cloud environments. This senior technology leader will oversee network engineering, cloud networking, wireless, remote access, and telecommunications, ensuring secure, resilient, and high-performance connectivity between on-premises data centers and cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure and AWS. The ideal candidate brings deep cloud networking expertise-especially within Azure-and proven experience supporting complex, distributed application environments. You will guide the design and implementation of hybrid cloud and AI/ML network architectures, driving innovation through automation, Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC), and SDN practices.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred).
12+ years of progressive infrastructure experience, with at least 7 years in network or cloud connectivity leadership.
Advanced Azure networking expertise (vNet design, ExpressRoute, Private Link, Azure Firewall, Application Gateway).
Proven experience designing and operating hybrid and multi-cloud connectivity across Azure and AWS.
Strong understanding of SD-WAN, global load balancing, and inter-site routing.
Familiarity with AI/ML network architectures and performance optimization for GPU workloads.
Demonstrated success leading network operations, automation, and infrastructure modernization initiatives.
Excellent communication, leadership, and cross-team collaboration skills.
Experience in regulated environments such as healthcare or finance preferred.

Nice To Haves

Microsoft Certified: Azure Network Engineer Associate (AZ-700)
Cisco CCNP/CCIE, Fortinet NSE, or equivalent enterprise network certifications
AWS Advanced Networking or Google Professional Cloud Network Engineer (optional)

Responsibilities

Lead the strategy, architecture, and operation of all enterprise connectivity domains-cloud networking, LAN/WAN, wireless, remote access, and telecommunications.
Design and operate hybrid cloud connectivity solutions integrating on-premises data centers with Azure (ExpressRoute, Virtual WAN, VPN Gateway) and AWS.
Develop secure, scalable cloud-native network topologies supporting multi-region and multi-subscription environments.
Collaborate with Cloud, Security, and Application teams to support distributed workloads, including containerized microservices, data lakes, and AI/ML environments.
Implement network segmentation and compliance strategies aligned with regulatory frameworks such as HIPAA and PCI.
Lead initiatives for AI/ML workload optimization, improving bandwidth utilization and minimizing latency for GPU and inference services.
Oversee enterprise routing, switching, and firewall performance across hybrid platforms.
Advance network automation using Infrastructure-as-Code tools (Terraform, ARM, Bicep) and DevOps methodologies.
Drive operational excellence through integrated monitoring, alerting, and incident response processes.
Manage wireless infrastructure strategies, ensuring secure clinical mobility, IoT device segmentation, and reliable connectivity.
Direct VoIP, telephony, and unified communication services, including cloud-hosted platforms.
Build and mentor high-performing engineering teams skilled in cloud and network infrastructure.
Partner with vendors and carriers to ensure performance, service innovation, and cost optimization.