Senior Director, Core Technology Architect

Job Description Vertex is seeking a Senior Director, Solution Architect – Core Technology to serve as a senior individual contributor responsible for defining and driving an integrated architecture strategy across infrastructure and collaboration platforms in a global, GxP-regulated biopharma environment. This leader will establish the foundational architecture function within Core Technology and partner closely with domain leaders across cloud, network, collaboration, end-user computing, workplace technology, and service management. This role will ensure that enterprise technologies are cohesive, scalable, secure, and compliant, while helping shape a unified AI and digital workplace strategy across Microsoft 365, cloud platforms, and end-user environments. This role will partner closely with Information Security to co-architect cybersecurity capabilities across the Core Technology ecosystem and drive alignment between infrastructure, collaboration, and security architecture strategies to ensure secure, scalable, and compliant technology solutions. Key Duties and Responsibilities: Enterprise Integration & Architecture Strategy Define and drive end-to-end solution architecture across Core Technology domains, including: Cloud platforms, with an Azure-first strategy and existing AWS footprint Microsoft 365 ecosystem, including Teams, Exchange, SharePoint, and Copilot enablement Enterprise network services, including connectivity, SD-WAN, and global infrastructure Data center and hybrid hosting environments End-user computing across Windows, Mac, and mobility Conference room and workplace collaboration technologies, including Zoom and Teams Rooms ITSM and service experience platforms, including ServiceNow Partner with Information Security to co-architect and integrate cybersecurity platforms and controls across cloud, network, workplace, collaboration, and end-user computing domains, ensuring alignment with Core Technology reference architecture, operational models, and enterprise risk requirements. Partner with Information Security to establish shared architecture principles, technology standards, integration patterns, and governance processes that align infrastructure, collaboration, and security architecture across the enterprise Create reference architectures, design standards, and integration patterns across technology domains Eliminate silos and ensure interoperability across Core Technology services Drive scalable and sustainable architectural approaches that support global business needs AI & Digital Workplace Enablement Lead Core Technology architecture strategy to enable enterprise AI capabilities Support AI enablement within: The Microsoft ecosystem, including Copilot, Microsoft 365, and Azure AI End-user productivity and collaboration platforms Ensure AI-related solutions are securely integrated across infrastructure layers Partner with Security and Data teams to align AI architecture with governance, privacy, and regulatory expectations Help shape a seamless and secure digital workplace experience for employees globally Architecture Governance & Standards Partner with Information Security to establish shared architecture principles, technology standards, integration patterns, and governance processes that align infrastructure, collaboration, and security architectures across the enterprise Establish architecture governance processes, including: Design reviews Technology standards Exception management Serve as the central point of accountability for cross-domain architectural decisions Ensure alignment with GxP, regulatory, compliance, and security requirements Drive lifecycle management, rationalization, and modernization of Core Technology platforms Cross-Functional Leadership & Influence Operate as a peer to Directors across Network, Cloud, EUC, Collaboration, and related domains. Serve as the primary Core Technology architecture partner to Information Security, driving joint architecture reviews, technology evaluations, integration decisions, and long-term platform strategy. Influence technical direction across a federated organization without direct authority Partner closely with Information Security, Data Services, and Application teams to define and maintain a unified infrastructure, collaboration, and security architecture strategy and roadmap. Act as a trusted advisor to senior DTE leadership on technology strategy, investments, and roadmap decisions Balance strategic vision with practical execution to accelerate business value Vendor & Partner Alignment Shape architecture strategy in partnership with key vendors and service providers, including: Microsoft (Azure, M365) Cisco, Palo Alto, Verizon, AT&T (network and security) Zoom (collaboration) ServiceNow (ITSM) Accenture (managed services and operations) Lenovo, Dell, Apple (end-user computing) Ensure third-party solutions align with enterprise architecture standards and long-term technology strategy Support effective vendor collaboration to deliver secure, compliant, and high-performing services Operational Alignment Ensure solutions are designed for operability in partnership with outsourced operations teams Drive consistency between architecture and service delivery models, including Service Desk and Deskside Support Improve end-user experience, supportability, and reliability through cohesive technical design Strengthen alignment between architecture, engineering, and operations Knowledge and Skills: Azure architecture and cloud services - AWS cloud environments - Microsoft 365 ecosystem - Microsoft Teams – Exchange - SharePoint - Microsoft Copilot - Azure AI - Enterprise networking and infrastructure - SD-WAN Security architecture alignment and experience co-architecting cybersecurity technologies including identity, endpoint protection, network security, zero-trust, and cloud security solutions. Data center and hybrid hosting End-user computing across Windows , Mac , and mobility platforms Collaboration technologies including Zoom and Teams Rooms ServiceNow and ITSM platforms Architecture governance and standards development Reference architecture and integration pattern design Technology lifecycle management and rationalization Preferred Skills Experience enabling enterprise AI solutions in a regulated environment Familiarity with digital workplace transformation initiatives Background in hybrid infrastructure and global collaboration ecosystems Knowledge of service delivery operating models and managed services integration Experience improving interoperability across infrastructure, workplace, and support platforms S