Cloud Strategist

Planet Technologies, the Nation’s leading Microsoft services provider to the public sector, is looking for a highly motivated individual to join our growing team as a Cloud Strategist. In this role, you will be supporting impactful projects that make a difference for our country. This role guides clients through the strategic adoption and optimization of cloud solutions to drive long-term business success for Defense Industrial Base, State and Local Government and commercial organizations aligning cloud initiatives with organizational goals, the strategist translates technical decisions into tangible business outcomes, such as improving operational efficiency through Azure automation or enhancing collaboration with Microsoft 365. The position blends visionary planning with real-world application, offering practical examples demonstrating measurable value. Responsibilities: Develop and execute cloud strategies tailored to client business objectives. Partners with the sales team to deliver tailored technical solutions, including developing the SOW (Statement of Work) to drive cohesive projects that meet tactical and strategic customer objectives. Translate technical solutions into business value through clear, outcome-driven communication. Collaborate with C-level stakeholders to align cloud roadmaps with defined strategic goals. Provide real-world examples and use cases to demonstrate the impact of cloud adoption. Identify, scope, and refer opportunities for additional sales that provide Planet's offerings that contribute to our customers’ success. Must have a deep technical understanding of core Microsoft technology pillars (Modern Workplace, Azure, CRM, Dev) and articulate it to both Technical and Business audiences. Understands how to leverage Microsoft Technology to solve customer problems. Help customers, sales teams, and others understand key strategic technology decisions and why they are essential Ensures that the technical solution matches the customer's objectives, laying the foundation for a successful implementation and a compelling customer success story. Qualifications A bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or related field is preferred, but is not required. Commensurate experience in technical sales will be considered instead of formal education. A master’s degree (MBA or MIS) is a plus. 7–10 years of IT experience, with 3–5 years in cloud strategy or architecture with proven success in client-facing roles, especially in consulting or digital transformation. Must have deep technical understanding of M365, Azure, and/or Dynamics. Deep understanding of cloud computing models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS) and deployment types (public, private, hybrid, multi-cloud) Expertise in major cloud platforms such as AWS, Google Cloud Platform (GCP), with the ability to help customers understand the benefits of Microsoft Azure and other Microsoft technologies. Proficiency in cloud architecture design, including scalability, availability, and disaster recovery planning Strong knowledge of cloud security principles, compliance standards (e.g., ISO 27001, SOC 2, HIPAA), and identity/access management Experience with cloud migration strategies, tools, and methodologies (e.g, lift and shift, re-platforming, refactoring) Ability to conduct cost-benefit analysis and optimize cloud spend using the Azure Cost Management tools Understanding of containerization and orchestration technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes, ECS, AKS, GKE) Experience with monitoring and performance tuning using tools like Azure Monitor Knowledge of data management in the cloud, including storage, backup, and data lifecycle policies Understanding of M365 Migration and Security architecture and principals. Ability to evaluate and integrate third-party cloud services and APIs Familiarity with cloud-native application development and microservices architecture Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to align cloud strategies with business goals Experience with cloud governance frameworks and policy enforcement Ability to lead technical workshops, create architectural documentation, and present to both technical and non-technical stakeholders Preferred Professional Licenses/Certifications : Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert (preferred). Additional certifications in Azure, Power Platform, or enterprise architecture (e.g., TOGAF, The Open Group Architecture Framework) are advantageous. Planet Technologies is the leading provider of Microsoft Consulting Services to public sector and commercial organizations. Planet has significant experience in deploying business intelligence, cloud services, unified communications, and systems management with an emphasis building, deploying, and managing custom solutions that transform the business operations of federal government agencies. Planet Technologies does not discriminate in employment opportunities, terms and conditions of employment, or practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, gender, religious or political beliefs, national origin or heritage, disability, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law. Federal Agency Clearance Requirements may require up to a 10-year background investigation - US Citizenship (clearable) is required. Compensation for this position includes both base salary and bonus. Several factors will impact final pay offered to a successful candidate including but not limited to the type and years of experience required for the job, the type of years and experience within the industry, education, training, or clearance etc. Base salaries for a Cloud Strategist at Planet Technologies ranges between $140,000 and $180,000 . Visit www.go-planet.com to learn more about us. Details about our benefits can be found here Planet Technologies Benefits Guide 2024-2025 .