Cloud Architect (IT Strategy & Supplier Management) – Belgium
For a customer in the Aalst area, I am looking for a Cloud Architect with strong project management skills to lead IT architecture improvements and supplier management.
The company works with multiple external suppliers who have varying update cycles and approaches, creating challenges in maintaining a cohesive IT environment.
Their infrastructure is primarily Azure-based, but they are not looking for a pure Azure specialist. Instead, they need someone with broad cloud expertise who can assess technologies, standardize supplier processes, and future-proof their IT architecture to support AI, data, and security initiatives.
This is a long-term freelance role, requiring onsite presence in the Aalst area.
Responsibilities:
* Define and optimize the IT architecture to support scalability, security, and efficiency.
* Assess and challenge external suppliers on their update cycles, development processes, and integration standards.
* Establish best practices for cloud governance, ensuring a structured and future-ready IT environment.
* Provide strategic direction for upcoming AI and data projects, ensuring a strong IT foundation before scaling.
* Ensure compliance with NIS2, ISO 27001, and other relevant security regulations.
* Act as the bridge between business, IT, and suppliers, driving alignment and standardizing IT processes.
Profile:
* 10+ years of experience in cloud architecture, IT strategy, or infrastructure leadership.
* Strong expertise in Azure, but able to work with multi-cloud/hybrid solutions.
* Experience managing multiple external suppliers, defining best practices and challenging inefficient workflows.
* Knowledge of security frameworks (NIS2, ISO 27001) and IT risk management is appreciated.
* Strong project management skills and ability to communicate with both technical teams and business leadership.
* Experience in AI, data architecture, and IT transformation initiatives is a plus.
Additional Details:
* Seniority: Senior
* Start Date: ASAP
* Duration: Freelance (Long-term)
* Location: Aalst Area (3-4 days per week)
* Hours per Week: 40
* Languages: Dutch (preferred), English
* Interview Process: 2 stages