IT Infrastructure - Microsoft Systems Specialist

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated IT Infrastructure Microsoft Systems Specialist to manage, maintain, and optimise our organisation's technology infrastructure. The successful candidate will be a subject matter expert in Microsoft environments, ensuring the reliability, security, and efficiency of our systems across on-premise infrastructure and cloud platforms (Azure/M365), and leveraging Ivanti for endpoint management. This role requires experience working in fast-paced, high-availability environments common in broadcast or similar 24/7 industries, alongside a commitment to collaborative teamwork and cross-training.

The Premier League is an equal opportunities employer and strives to create an inclusive culture where talent can flourish. We believe in the potential of everyone and open our doors to those who share those values. All appointments will be made based on merit; however, we particularly encourage applications from women, people from minority ethnic communities, LGBTQ+ people and disabled people. Our hybrid-working model also allows you some variety on your place of work, offering you the chance to work from home on some days each week, where possible. You will be expected to attend the office or site visits in line with our company policy.

The role

• Identity & Access Management: Administer and manage user identities and access across hybrid environments, including on-premise Active Directory (AD) and cloud-based Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD).
• Security Implementation: Design and deploy robust security measures such as Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) across all M365 and Azure services to protect organisational data.
• Cloud Infrastructure (Azure): Deploy, configure, monitor, and manage Azure infrastructure services, including virtual machines, storage, networking, and other Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) components.
• Microsoft 365 Administration: Serve as the primary administrator for the entire M365 suite, including Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, Teams, OneDrive, and Purview, managing tenant settings, licensing, and security features.
• On-Premise Server Management: Install, configure, and maintain physical and virtual Windows Servers (2016, 2019, 2022+), ensuring high availability, performance, and applying necessary security patches and updates.
• Endpoint Management: Deploy, configure, and support end-user computing devices, including workstations (desktops) and laptops, utilising Ivanti solutions for software deployment, patch management, and configuration management.
• Infrastructure Monitoring & Support: Proactively monitor system performance, troubleshoot complex hardware/software issues, and provide expert-level (2nd/3rd line) support to minimise downtime within a demanding operational tempo.
• Collaboration & Cross-Training: Actively participate in a team of infrastructure specialists, contributing expertise while remaining open to learning new domains. Commit to formal and informal cross-training initiatives to ensure specialist skills are widely understood across the team, building collective resilience and shared capability. Mentor junior team members and clearly document procedures to facilitate knowledge transfer.

Requirements for the role

• Education: A Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience.
• Experience: Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in an IT infrastructure or systems administration role within a Microsoft-centric environment. Demonstrable previous work experience within a broadcast or TV company environment, or a similar high-pressure, 24/7 (or 16/7) operational setting.
• Technical Proficiency: Deep expertise in Microsoft Windows Server Operating Systems and Active Directory. Strong practical experience with M365 administration and security features. Hands-on experience managing Microsoft Azure resources (IaaS, PaaS). Experience with identity solutions including Entra ID (Azure AD), MFA, and Single Sign-On (SSO). Proficiency in managing endpoints (laptops/workstations) with hands-on experience using Ivanti endpoint management solutions. Familiarity with networking principles (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPNs).
• Soft Skills: Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities, with the capacity to think critically under pressure. Strong communication and collaboration skills; a genuine team player. Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritise tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications and Certifications

• Microsoft 365 Certified: Administrator Expert (MS-102) Certification or significant training in Ivanti endpoint management solutions.
• Experience with scripting languages, particularly PowerShell, for automation.