Freelance Senior Azure Cloud Architect, Brussels hybridRole OverviewThe Technical Architect designs and oversees the implementation of complex IT solutions, ensuring scalability, security, performance, and long-term maintainability.In close collaboration with domain architects, engineering teams, and key stakeholders, the Technical Architect defines technical standards, selects appropriate technologies, and ensures alignment with operational requirements and enterprise architecture principles.This role combines deep technical expertise with strategic vision and hands-on leadership.Scope of WorkDefine system architecture and ensure scalability, security, and maintainability.Design cloud-based, microservices-oriented, and enterprise-level solutions.Establish and enforce technology standards, architectural guidelines, and integration patterns.Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to translate business and operational needs into technical solutions.Conduct architecture reviews, code reviews, and ensure performance optimization.Perform security assessments and validate compliance with best practices.Analyze complex IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS environments.Coordinate technical implementation activities and support ongoing maintenance.Contribute to modernization and refactoring of legacy applications.Act as a technical ambassador and reference point across teams.Technology EnvironmentCloud: Microsoft AzureArchitecture: Microservices, Event-driven architecture, SOADevOps & Infrastructure: Kubernetes, Docker, Terraform, Ansible, BicepOther: Linux, Containerization, TomcatRequired Experience & SkillsMinimum 12 years of experience in IT, including significant experience in solution and system architecture.Proven experience designing and implementing cloud-based architectures on Microsoft Azure.Strong hands-on expertise in:Microservices architectureEvent-driven architectureService-Oriented Architecture (SOA)Solid experience with cloud integration architectures and distributed systems.knowledge of several parts of our technology stack (Azure, Containerization, Linux, Tomcat, etc.) and willingness to deepen your expertise in areas you are less familiar withProven experience working with IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS environments, including architecture validation and technical governance.Strong knowledge of DevOps practices, including:CI/CD pipeline design and governanceInfrastructure as Code (Terraform, Bicep)Configuration management (Ansible)Containerization and orchestration (Docker, Kubernetes)Experience defining and enforcing architecture standards and best practices across multiple teams.Strong understanding of security principles, resilience patterns, and performance optimization.Experience conducting architecture reviews, code reviews, and technical assessments.Experience modernizing and refactoring legacy applications.Strong analytical mindset and ability to assess emerging technologies pragmatically.Clear communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders and coach engineers.Hands-on mentality with leadership presence.