Sr Lead Cloud Operations

This role has an influential impact on the organization by leading Cloud Operations, specifically focusing on our cloud deployments across multiple supply chain vertical business lines. You'll be a pivotal part of a dynamic team, driving operational excellence in our cloud infrastructure and services. This position requires a candidate with an engineering mindset to operations, strong ability to communicate, and a commitment to continuous learning and leadership growth.

About Chick-fil-A Supply

A wholly owned subsidiary of Chick-fil-A, Inc., Chick-fil-A Supply™ is a distribution service provider focused entirely on serving the unique needs of Chick-fil-A restaurants. 

Due to steady, year-over-year sales and volume growth, combined with the complexity in our Restaurants, Chick-fil-A Supply supports current and future Restaurant needs through distribution innovation that extends the Chick-fil-A culture of care to those it serves, as well as those it employs.

This subsidiary is in the early stages of development and is a dynamic, fast-paced work environment focused on launching this new service to Restaurants across the nation.

• Oversee Cloud Operations across multiple AWS regions, ensuring alignment with the broader strategic goals. Manage all aspects of cloud infrastructure, including deployment, maintenance, and optimization, to support organizational objectives effectively
• Lead cloud-based projects, from conception to deployment, focusing on AWS solutions. Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and budget
• Direct and supervise a skilled Cloud Ops team, ensuring continuous development and effective utilization of AWS resources and tools. Provide mentorship and technical guidance to the team
• Implement and maintain operational best practices for managing the AWS cloud environment, including cost optimization, security, compliance, and disaster recovery planning
• Manage the security posture of the AWS environment, ensuring strict adherence to security protocols and compliance with regulatory requirements
• Monitor AWS infrastructure performance, implementing improvements and optimizations to ensure high availability and efficiency
• Stay abreast of the latest AWS features and services. Lead the adoption of innovative AWS solutions that provide competitive advantages to the business
• Manage and allocate resources effectively, including personnel assignments and budgetary considerations. Drive the hiring and training processes to build a high-performing AWS-focused Cloud Ops team
• Collaborate with various stakeholders, including IT, development teams, and external partners, to align AWS infrastructure strategies with overall business objectives. Ensure clear communication of cloud strategies and initiatives
• Actively engage in the resolution of complex technical challenges within the AWS environment, leveraging deep knowledge of AWS services and best practices
• Manage vendor relationships, including overseeing contractual staff. Ability to effectively communicate expectations, monitor performance, and ensure deliverables from vendor teams
• Drive thought leadership and foster innovation across all entities, including Chick-fil-A Inc. This involves championing new ideas, leading by example in adopting emerging technologies, and inspiring teams across the organization to embrace innovative solutions

• Deep Understanding of AWS services, architecture, and best practices
• Knowledge of automation and orchestration tools (e.g., Terraform, CloudFormation)
• Proficiency in managing cloud security and compliance, including experience with AWS security tools and best practices
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor teams
• Experience in strategic planning, resource management, and project execution within a cloud operations context
• Strong ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a track record of handling complex technical challenges
• Experience in managing large-scale IT projects, with a focus on cloud-based solutions
• Ability to adapt to rapidly changing technologies and environments
• Commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with the latest trends in AWS and cloud computing
• Strong background in engineering or software development, well-versed in more than just basic scripting (e.g., Bash)

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect or AWS Certified SysOps Administrator
• Demonstrated experience in leading large-scale, enterprise-wide AWS implementation projects
• Specialized knowledge in emerging AWS technologies or specific AWS services like AWS Kubernetes Service (EKS), AWS Lambda, or AWS Outpost
• Advanced training or proven skills in areas like strategic decision-making, negotiation, or change management
• Contributions to the field of cloud computing, such as publications, speaking engagements, or active participation in industry forums
• Proficiency in higher-level programming languages (such as Python, Java, or Go).