A&O Shearman
Working at A&O Shearman
Working at A&O Shearman Culture and benefits Training and development Candidate charter Ways of working
A&O Shearman
Technology that powers global performance
Global IT at A&O Shearman is driving the technology that underpins a leading international law firm. Our strategy is centered on creating a connected, forward‑looking environment where secure, high‑performing platforms enable people to work seamlessly across our global network. We combine deep technical expertise with a sharp focus on business outcomes - ensuring technology is not just reliable, but a true enabler of growth and innovation. From cloud and infrastructure to data and security, we are continuously evolving our technology landscape to meet the demands of a fast‑paced, global business. It’s an environment where ideas are valued, standards are high, and impact is tangible.
- Job ID
- 10885BR
- Location
- London, United Kingdom
- Job Family
- Business teams
- Practice Area
- Information technology
- Job Type
- Permanent
- Working Arrangement
- Hybrid
Job description
We are recruiting a Cloud Platform Architect to join our Information Technology team in London. Reporting to the Head of Enterprise Technology Platforms, this Senior Manager level role will be responsible for the ensuring the A&O Shearman Cloud and Infrastructure Platform meets the current and future needs of the global business, is secure, operationally excellent and is cost efficient. Defining, designing and implementing the Cloud and Infrastructure strategy, architecture and infrastructure.The role holder will work across a broad, global stakeholder group to translate business goals and strategy into technology strategy and design, working with delivery and operational leadership to implement these.
Enterprise technology platforms
The enterprise technology platforms include the Cloud and Infrastructure Platform, Power Platform & Automation and Microsoft 365 platforms. The purpose of these platforms is to define, design and deliver the architecture, roadmaps and customer solutions aligned to the business goals, technology strategy and enterprise architecture. These must meet the business, security and operational needs of the firm over a multi-year time horizon, whilst ensuring value for money.
Role & responsibilities
- Ensure the multi-year Cloud & Infrastructure Platform Roadmap is continuously maintained, aligned to the business goals and strategy, delivering security, operational excellence and cost efficiency, as agreed with the Head of Enterprise Architecture and Strategy, Information Security, IT Operations and the Head of Enterprise Technology Platforms.
- Ensure the multi-year Cloud & Infrastructure Platform Roadmap is delivered. This will require the Cloud Platform Architect to work closely with architecture and delivery leadership across the organization including Enterprise Architecture, Information Security, IT Operations, Project Delivery, Engineering and Finance to ensure alignment of goals and mechanisms for realizing the Roadmap are put in place.
- Lead architecture teams, establish and manage governance frameworks, best practice, risk management, guardrails and ensure compliance across engineering teams. These teams will be a mix of internal and external resources.
- Create the blueprints, technical specifications, and standards for infrastructure, security, and application deployment.
- Engage and contract with external suppliers at the right time and cost, with commercial acumen.
- Ensure the successful delivery of the critical services that other technology Platforms, business and customer projects will need to consume from the Cloud & Infrastructure Platform. This will include providing timeline, dependency, skills and effort estimates to projects for solution design and delivery; forecasting platform capacity requirements and ensuring these are ready when required; and forecasting future demand for platform services and ensure innovative solutions are available to support these when required.
Key requirements
- Must have relevant technical architecture qualifications and certifications for at least one of the major Cloud providers, preferably Microsoft Azure.
- Deep expertise of at least one Cloud provider, preferably Microsoft Azure.
- Will have at least 10 years’ experience in technology architecture and engineering, with at least 5 years’ experience in cloud computing.
- Strong understanding and experience of Infrastructure as Code, Serverless computing, Containerization, Networks, Information Security, AI and Data.
- Strong understanding and experience of managing architectural governance frameworks, best practices, compliance and risk management.
- Good understanding and experience of the project delivery lifecycle, from concept to delivery, delivery methodologies and finance.
- Good understanding and experience of the operational lifecycle, from go-live to decommissioning and what is required to maintain an industry leading operational environment.
- Ability to solve complex business and technology problems in demanding timescales.
- Ability to understand and translate business goals and strategy into the Cloud & Infrastructure Platform Roadmap.
- Ability to deliver the Cloud and Infrastructure Platform Roadmap and ensure resources are committed to it’s delivery in the required timescale, noting that many of these resources will not be under the direct management of the Cloud Platform Architect.
- Ability to innovate and drive adoption of new technologies to ensure the Cloud and Infrastructure Platform is continuously ready to meet new business demands.
- Ability to influence stakeholders including senior IT leadership, business leadership and peers across the global IT organization.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, meeting the needs of senior executives, some of whom may be non-technical, and wider technology audiences across the global IT team.
Should you require additional support at any stage of the recruitment process due to a disability or a health condition, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our recruitment team who will work with you to provide any adjustments as required.
We are an equal opportunities recruiter and do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
We recognise that our people are our most valuable asset, which is reflected in the wide range of benefits that are available to our employees. Some of these benefits include: our occupational pension scheme, group income protection cover, private medical insurance, mental health resources and free apps, health and wellbeing services encompassing an onsite gym, wellbeing centre and GP service, emergency back-up care support, parental and special leave, holiday entitlement increasing with length of service, holiday trading, season ticket loans and online discounts and lifestyle management services.
NO AGENCIES PLEASE - A&O Shearman does not accept unsolicited CVs. For further information, please see our UK Recruitment Agency Policy and our commitment to direct sourcing here.
The technology you’ll work with
In global IT, you’ll be supported by a modern, enterprise‑grade technology ecosystem designed to enable performance, security and innovation. Our environment brings together best‑in‑class platforms, cloud infrastructure and specialist tools that underpin a leading global law firm. From collaboration and knowledge sharing to advanced security and data capabilities, we ensure our teams have what they need to deliver at pace. Alongside access to the latest technologies, you’ll benefit from strong technical communities, structured learning and ongoing investment in our IT landscape - empowering you to build expertise and drive meaningful impact.
Built to excel
In global IT, excellence is built through a combination of technical expertise, curiosity and a drive to continuously improve. Our strongest performers bring a pragmatic, solutions‑focused mindset and take ownership of delivering high‑quality outcomes. They collaborate effectively across teams, adapt quickly to change and stay focused under pressure. With a clear understanding of how technology enables the business, they balance innovation with reliability. Above all, they are committed to raising standards - contributing ideas, refining approaches and consistently delivering impact in a fast‑moving, high‑performance environment.
- Technically credible
- Solution focused
- Accountable
- Collaborative
- Resilient
- Innovation minded
Why us?
As a leading global law firm, we rely on our global IT function to keep us at the forefront - enabling our people with secure, innovative and high‑performing technology.
Our IT teams play a critical role in ensuring the business runs seamlessly and adapts to change. You’ll work in a collaborative, international environment where your expertise has real impact, supporting lawyers and business teams across the firm.
Shaping your career
You can build a career here with clear expectations, regular development conversations, and ongoing access to training. We tailor development to your role and strengths, helping you build leadership, management, and business skills to reach your potential.
You’ll benefit from a wide range of learning via our platform, supported by regular check-ins through our compass approach to align priorities and development goals.
We support internal progression, including moves that aid growth. Many colleagues explore varied roles, secondments, or international opportunities - so being proactive, owning your development, and sharing your goals is key to making the most of these possibilities.
Your journey, our commitment
We believe recruitment should feel clear, respectful and genuinely engaging at every stage. Our approach is built around open communication, meaningful conversations and giving you a true sense of who we are - how we work, what we value and where you could fit. We ask for professionalism and openness in return. It’s a partnership, grounded in trust and transparency, designed to help you make confident, informed decisions about your career while enabling us to get to know you at your best.
EXPLORE OUR CANDIDATE CHARTERBenefits
Our range of benefits is designed to meet your changing needs, providing support for physical, mental and financial well-being. We regularly review our reward and benefits programs to ensure they remain relevant and competitive. We believe it’s important for our people to share in the success of the firm and be recognized for their contributions. We do that through a range of salary, discretionary bonus plans and market-competitive benefits.
Our benefits packages vary by location but are guided by the same global principles:
Health and wellness
Access to check-ups, insurance cover, extra support when needed, and well-being platforms.
Remuneration and rewards
We recognize contribution to client work, or business teamwork, as well as to the firm and the community. We share the financial success of the firm in a fair and transparent manner.
Financial benefits
We look to provide financial peace of mind, which can include insurances, assurances, and saving for retirement (market-dependent.)
Family and lifestyle
We aim to support you in managing your demands and commitments effectively alongside your working life, as well as providing perks and discounts to assist with travel, fun and well-being.
Learning and development
We invest in your performance and progression by giving you access to top-quality training and development through an ongoing blend of structured and informal learning opportunities.
Social impact
With us, you’re encouraged to volunteer your time and skills, whether you’re a lawyer or business professional, junior or senior. You’re free to choose a cause that matters to you, or to support our chosen global charity.
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