I.T Infrastructure Specialist

Join Newsquest Group Infrastructure Services (GIS) – the technology backbone of one of the UK’s leading local media publishers. In this role you will secure, modernise and optimise the infrastructure that powers our digital and print operations, with a strong focus on Microsoft Azure cloud computing, Microsoft 365 E5 and its security suite.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement and manage infrastructure services across on‑premises and cloud with a focus on Azure and Microsoft 365 E5 Security.
• Operate and improve Microsoft Defender solutions (Defender for Endpoint and Defender for Office 365).
• Provide system management for IT infrastructure services and deliver within defined service levels.
• Act as escalation support for the Infrastructure Support team, including out‑of‑hours on‑call cover.
• Maintain secure identity and device management, including Active Directory, DNS, and DHCP.
• Support, optimise and troubleshoot Linux platforms and associated services.
• Administer and tune database services, including MySQL, and contribute to broader SQL server management.
• Advise on new products and innovations in cloud, security, networking and storage.
• Work effectively with external providers to deliver and support services.
• Mentor GIS colleagues in recognised areas of infrastructure and security expertise.
• Provide cover for the Infrastructure Systems Administrator and/or Infrastructure Support Supervisor during absence.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• Strong experience with Microsoft 365 E5 Security and Microsoft Defender solutions.
• Practical knowledge of Azure services and security controls across hybrid environments.
• Thorough understanding of Microsoft Windows Server and desktop operating systems.
• Good knowledge of Linux administration and troubleshooting.
• Database skills, including MySQL administration, performance and backup/recovery.
• Networking concepts and technologies, particularly LAN and WAN.
• NAS and SAN storage technologies.
• Experience supporting IT services and working with external support providers.
• Understanding of on‑premises, outsourced and cloud IT services, and delivering complex multi‑server workflow systems.
• Desirable: Experience with other operating systems (macOS, additional Linux distributions).
• Desirable: Competence in Microsoft SQL Server management.
• Desirable: Knowledge of best practice in IT service delivery and management (ITIL).
• Desirable: Understanding of newspaper and digital media publishing systems.

Personal attributes: Fast learner, positive collaborator, strong time management, clear communicator and professional degree or equivalent experience.

Benefits

• Remote working (remote‑first with office visits).
• Competitive salary.
• Contributory pension.
• On‑call allowance.
• Discount vouchers and perks with retailers.
• Team building and training days.
• 25 days’ paid holiday plus statutory bank holidays.
• Extra day off on your birthday.
• Holiday purchase scheme.
• Structured career progression with ongoing training and performance reviews.
• Discounted gym membership and cycle‑to‑work scheme.
• Mental health support via Lifeworks.
• Annual volunteer or charity day.
• Staff referral scheme.

Newsquest Media Group is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all community sections regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. Our recruitment process will consist of various stages and activities. As part of our commitment to fairness to all applicants, we will take into account any adjustments that could help you.