Remote Access Architect

Remote Access Architect – 3-Month Contract (Competitive Day Rate) Global Retailer | Flexible / Hybrid Location   Overview A leading global retailer is seeking an experienced Remote Access Architect to provide strategic oversight, governance, and technical assurance for a unified, enterprise-wide Remote Access solution. This is a high-impact contract role responsible for shaping the standards, patterns, and architecture principles that enable secure, seamless connectivity for a diverse global workforce.   You will act as an independent strategic voice, partnering with security, networks, cloud hosting, and identity teams to ensure a cohesive, scalable, and future-proof remote access service.   Key Responsibilities Define and govern architecture principles, standards, and patterns for the enterprise Remote Access solution. Provide strategic technical oversight across all major components, ensuring integration and alignment across: Zscaler Private Access (ZPA) Zscaler Browser Portal Access Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) – hosting & endpoint management AD/Entra ID CyberArk (PAM) Work closely with Security and architecture partners to ensure compliance with enterprise security and regulatory requirements. Champion a high-quality colleague experience across varied business needs and global operational environments. Ensure remote access design supports Warehouse, Store, and non-production (CATE) environments. Serve as a trusted advisor to the Identity & Access Management team, supporting end-to-end service ownership. Provide independent assessment and recommendations to maintain scalability, security, and future readiness. Align dependencies across Networks, Cloud Hosting, Device & Endpoint Management, and IAM teams. Lead or review Design Authority submissions to ensure remote access components meet governance, standards, and strategic objectives.  Design Authority Focus Areas ZPA – secure internal app access; ensuring scalability and compliance. Browser Portal Access – browser-based partner access; usability and onboarding optimisation. AVD – performance-led design for warehouse and store connectivity. AD/Entra ID – federation, conditional access, seamless integration. CyberArk – privileged access controls, segregation of duties, auditability.  Essential Skills & Experience Proven experience as an Architect within Remote Access, Identity & Access Management, or similar enterprise architecture domains. Strong technical knowledge of Zscaler, Azure Virtual Desktop, AD/Entra ID, and CyberArk. Deep understanding of security governance, compliance, and architecture frameworks. Ability to balance robust security with intuitive user experience. Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the confidence to present an independent strategic viewpoint. Experienced in guiding multi-disciplinary teams across complex enterprise environments.  Contract Details 3 month initial contract Competitive market day rate Hybrid (3x week in London)