THE COMPANY  Aldridge (https://aldridge.com/) is a leading Managed Service Provider (MSP) offering scalable IT and cybersecurity solutions to fast-growing, small to mid-market businesses in the US. Founded in 1984, this private equity-backed company is a technology management, consulting, and outsourcing firm that provides best-fit solutions through a tailored approach and local relationships.  With offices in Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, and Seattle, the company’s unwavering dedication, superior technical expertise, and keen understanding of business processes have transformed it into a trusted partner for its clients. With a strong reputation for delivering high-quality services, Aldridge is committed to helping its clients optimize their technology infrastructure and achieve their business goals. POSITION SUMMARY The IT Solutions Architect will be a pivotal member of the new client sales team, driving new revenue opportunities through interactions with prospective clients through the entire sales process. The Solutions Architect will identify business and technical challenges of prospective clients, build consultative, technical solutions, and prepare and present proposals and designs. The Solutions Architect will act as the prospective client’s trusted advisor while aiding in the transformative journey of working with Aldridge.       SCOPE AND RESPONSIBILITIES + Working with members of the sales team and executives, lead technical pre-sales discussions and activities with prospective clients. + Acting as the technical trusted advisor, the Solutions Architect will identify client business and technical needs and propose solutions with the appropriate Aldridge services and products. + Provide subject matter expertise and guidance related to cyber security, cloud options, business continuity and disaster recovery, networking, server and device management, service desk, and general IT management to the sales team and to prospective clients + Create technical documentation, diagrams, client facing technical presentations, statements of work, and provide technical responses for requests for proposal (RFP) + Participate in and lead seminars, tradeshows, events, presentations, technology roadmap reviews and training + Stay up to date on emerging technologies and products, including attaining certifications and participation in vendor/industry training events as appropriate + Interface with internal teams, providing input to constantly improve our products and services that add value for our clients + Provide ongoing product and technology training to the sales team + 50% Travel is expected EXPERIENCE REQUIRED + Prior experience working at a Managed Service Provider in a Solutions Architect or similar client facing technical role. + Previous experience in an IT Operations role is desirable + Technical knowledge of Microsoft 365, Azure, cyber security platforms and technologies, server virtualization, storage, LAN and WAN networking, data backup and replication technologies. + Proven experience presenting complex technical topics to both technical and business audiences + Exceptional communication skills with the ability to quickly digest, appropriately respond, and influence colleagues and clients in a positive, empathetic, and collaborative manner. EDUCATION REQUIRED + Bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science or related field, or equivalent experience + A master’s degree in business administration or a related area of study is a plus.   PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES This team member will dynamically practice a sales-driven, growth-oriented style of interaction and be a strategic, independent thinker who is results-oriented with finely honed communication and people skills that quickly inspire the trust and confidence of others. They will demonstrate servant leadership qualities, putting the needs of the team first and assisting them in their pursuit of new business.  This team member will receive criticism with grace and will change direction when presented with a better solution.  They will be a good listener and team player who is at their best when working with others to close a deal.  This individual will have excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to follow written and verbal directions.   Powered by JazzHR