📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Systems Engineer - Microsoft Modern Workplace
Company: IFS
Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Job Type: Full-time, Hybrid
Category: DevOps, Infrastructure
Date Posted: July 1, 2025
Experience Level: Mid-Senior level (5-10 years)

🚀 Role Summary

Lead strategic planning and operational management of Microsoft 365 services, driving innovation and resource allocation.
Design, deploy, and manage Microsoft 365 services, including Exchange Online, SharePoint, Teams, OneDrive, Intune, and Security & Compliance features.
Implement data loss prevention (DLP), information protection, and conditional access policies to ensure secure access and compliance.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate compliance solutions with existing systems and workflows.
Stay updated with tech trends, experiment with new technologies, and mentor junior team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong background in Microsoft 365 administration, with a focus on security, compliance, and integration with other systems. Familiarity with PowerShell and Azure AD is essential for automation and bulk updates.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Operations: Lead operational and strategic planning, fostering innovation, and organizing resource allocation.
Microsoft 365 Services Management: Design, deploy, and manage Microsoft 365 services, ensuring high availability and performance.
Security & Compliance: Implement DLP, information protection, and conditional access policies to meet legal and regulatory requirements.
Data Governance: Implement and manage Microsoft Purview for data governance and compliance, and collaborate with other IT teams for integration.
Benchmarking & Reporting: Analyze, report on, and make recommendations for improvement of Microsoft 365 suite and other systems.
Tech Trend Awareness & Mentoring: Stay updated with tech trends, experiment with new technologies, and mentor junior team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role involves a high level of responsibility and requires strong problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with various teams to ensure secure and compliant access to Microsoft modern workplace solutions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or equivalent experience (5+ years).

Required Skills:

Strong technical knowledge of Microsoft 365 collaboration suite.
Proficiency in PowerShell for automation and integration with Azure AD.
Minimum 2 years of experience in Microsoft Power Platform Administration.
Strong problem-solving skills and interest in cloud computing and cybersecurity.
Familiarity with ITIL or other IT service management frameworks (preferred).

Preferred Skills:

Microsoft certifications related to Microsoft 365 administration, PowerShell, and Azure AD.
Experience with Microsoft Purview and data governance.
Knowledge of scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash) for automation and integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: While certifications are not required, they demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and can provide a competitive advantage. Familiarity with scripting languages can help automate repetitive tasks and streamline workflows.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrate experience in Microsoft 365 administration, including Exchange Online, SharePoint, Teams, and OneDrive.
Showcase your ability to implement security and compliance measures, such as DLP, information protection, and conditional access policies.
Highlight projects that involve integrating Microsoft 365 services with other systems and workflows.
Include examples of automation and scripting to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort.

Technical Documentation:

Document your approach to Microsoft 365 security and compliance, including policies, procedures, and best practices.
Provide examples of performance reports and recommendations for improvement.
Include any relevant certifications and training completed to demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning.

📝 Enhancement Note: A well-structured portfolio will demonstrate your ability to manage complex Microsoft 365 environments, ensure secure and compliant access, and integrate services with other systems. Highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to work collaboratively with various teams.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: LKR 2,500,000 - 3,500,000 per annum (Estimated, based on market research and regional adjustments for mid-senior level DevOps roles in Colombo, Sri Lanka)

Benefits:

Flexible and hybrid work opportunities to support diverse needs and lifestyles.
Inclusive workplace experiences, fostering a sense of community, and driving innovation.
Commitment to sustainability and making a positive impact on the world.

Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours/week), with flexible working hours and the option to work remotely for some days.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary range is based on market research for mid-senior level DevOps roles in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Benefits include flexible work arrangements, an inclusive work environment, and a commitment to sustainability.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Enterprise software solutions, with a focus on AI-driven technologies and customer engagement.

Company Size: 7,000+ employees worldwide, with a global presence and diverse workforce.

Founded: 1983, with a strong commitment to internal AI adoption and staying at the forefront of technological advancements.

Team Structure:

Collaborative, cross-functional teams working together to drive innovation and customer success.
Diverse backgrounds and expertise, fostering a culture of inclusion and continuous learning.
Strong focus on customer engagement and making a real change in the world.

Development Methodology:

Agile and iterative development processes, with a focus on customer needs and continuous improvement.
Collaborative approach to problem-solving and decision-making, with input from various teams and stakeholders.
Strong commitment to internal AI adoption and staying updated with the latest technologies.

Company Website: IFS

📝 Enhancement Note: IFS is a global enterprise software company with a strong commitment to AI-driven technologies and customer engagement. The company fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment, with a focus on driving innovation and making a positive impact on the world.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: Mid-Senior level, with a focus on strategic planning, operational management, and technical leadership in Microsoft 365 services.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the IT Director or a similar role, with the opportunity to lead and mentor junior team members.

Technical Impact: Leads strategic planning and operational management of Microsoft 365 services, ensuring secure and compliant access, and driving innovation through technology.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Growth: Deepen expertise in Microsoft 365 administration, security, and compliance, and explore related technologies and certifications.
Leadership Growth: Develop leadership skills through mentoring junior team members and driving strategic initiatives.
Career Progression: Progress to senior or management roles within the IT department, or explore opportunities in other areas of the business.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant growth opportunities, both technically and in terms of leadership development. With a strong focus on strategic planning and operational management, this role provides a solid foundation for further career progression within the IT department or the broader organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, collaborative workspaces designed to foster innovation and cross-functional collaboration.

Office Location(s): Colombo, Sri Lanka, with opportunities for remote work and hybrid arrangements.

Workspace Context:

Modern, well-equipped offices with multiple monitors, testing devices, and development tools available.
Collaborative workspaces, with opportunities for cross-functional interaction and knowledge sharing.
Flexible work arrangements, with the option to work remotely for some days.

Work Schedule: Full-time (40 hours/week), with flexible working hours and the option to work remotely for some days.

📝 Enhancement Note: IFS offers modern, collaborative workspaces designed to foster innovation and cross-functional collaboration. With flexible work arrangements and the option to work remotely, employees can balance their work and personal lives while maintaining a strong connection to the team.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Technical Assessment: Demonstrate your technical skills through a hands-on assessment or case study, focusing on Microsoft 365 administration, security, and compliance.
Behavioral Interview: Discuss your problem-solving skills, leadership style, and approach to collaboration and teamwork.
Final Interview: Meet with the hiring manager or a senior team member to discuss your fit for the role and the team, and to answer any remaining questions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight your experience in Microsoft 365 administration, security, and compliance, with a focus on strategic planning and operational management.
Include examples of automation and scripting to demonstrate your ability to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort.
Showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to work collaboratively with various teams.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on your Microsoft 365 administration skills, with a focus on security, compliance, and automation.
Familiarize yourself with PowerShell and Azure AD, and practice scripting for automation and integration.
Prepare for behavioral interview questions by reflecting on your problem-solving skills, leadership style, and approach to collaboration and teamwork.

ATS Keywords:

Microsoft 365: Exchange Online, SharePoint, Teams, OneDrive, Intune, Security & Compliance, Data Loss Prevention, Information Protection, Conditional Access
PowerShell, Azure AD, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, ITIL, Microsoft Power Platform
Leadership, Strategic Planning, Operational Management, Technical Mentoring

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will focus on your technical skills in Microsoft 365 administration, security, and compliance, as well as your problem-solving skills, leadership style, and approach to collaboration and teamwork. Prepare for a hands-on assessment or case study, as well as behavioral interview questions.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Microsoft 365 Services:

Exchange Online: Email hosting and management.
SharePoint: Collaboration and document management platform.
Teams: Unified communication and collaboration platform.
OneDrive: Cloud storage and file sharing.
Intune: Mobile device management and security.
Security & Compliance: Features for data protection, access control, and compliance.

PowerShell & Azure AD:

PowerShell: Scripting language for automation and configuration management.
Azure AD: Cloud-based identity and access management service.

Infrastructure Tools:

Microsoft Purview: Data governance and compliance platform.
ITIL or other IT service management frameworks: Best practices for IT service delivery and management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong background in Microsoft 365 administration, security, and compliance, with a focus on strategic planning and operational management. Familiarity with PowerShell, Azure AD, and ITIL or other IT service management frameworks is essential for success in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Microsoft 365 Administration Values:

Security & Compliance: Prioritize data protection, access control, and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
Collaboration & Integration: Foster a collaborative work environment, with a focus on integrating Microsoft 365 services with other systems and workflows.
Innovation & Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest technologies and best practices, and drive innovation through strategic planning and operational management.
Customer Focus: Understand customer needs and preferences, and ensure that Microsoft 365 services meet their requirements.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with various teams, including legal, IT security, and other relevant parties, to ensure secure and compliant access to Microsoft modern workplace solutions.
Knowledge Sharing: Share expertise and best practices with junior team members and other stakeholders to drive continuous learning and improvement.
Problem-Solving: Approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset, and collaborate with others to find creative and effective solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: IFS values a collaborative and inclusive work environment, with a strong focus on customer engagement and making a positive impact on the world. The Microsoft 365 administration team fosters a culture of security and compliance, collaboration and integration, innovation and continuous learning, and customer focus.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Security & Compliance: Implement and manage complex security and compliance measures, such as DLP, information protection, and conditional access policies.
Integration: Integrate Microsoft 365 services with other systems and workflows, ensuring seamless user experiences and efficient processes.
Scalability: Design and deploy Microsoft 365 services that can scale to meet the needs of a growing organization, with a focus on performance, availability, and security.
Emerging Technologies: Stay updated with the latest technologies and best practices, and explore opportunities to leverage emerging technologies to drive innovation and improve user experiences.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Microsoft 365 Administration: Deepen your expertise in Microsoft 365 administration, security, and compliance, and explore related technologies and certifications.
Leadership Development: Develop your leadership skills through mentoring junior team members and driving strategic initiatives.
Career Progression: Progress to senior or management roles within the IT department, or explore opportunities in other areas of the business.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant technical challenges and growth opportunities, with a strong focus on security and compliance, integration, scalability, and emerging technologies. With a commitment to continuous learning and innovation, this role provides a solid foundation for further career progression within the IT department or the broader organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Microsoft 365 Administration: Demonstrate your technical expertise in Microsoft 365 administration, security, and compliance, with a focus on strategic planning and operational management.
PowerShell & Azure AD: Showcase your proficiency in PowerShell and Azure AD, with examples of automation and integration.
Security & Compliance: Discuss your approach to implementing and managing complex security and compliance measures, such as DLP, information protection, and conditional access policies.
Problem-Solving: Share examples of how you have approached and resolved technical challenges in previous roles, with a focus on creativity and effectiveness.

Company & Culture Questions:

Company Culture: Discuss your understanding of IFS's company culture, with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and customer engagement.
Team Dynamics: Describe your approach to working with various teams, including legal, IT security, and other relevant parties, to ensure secure and compliant access to Microsoft modern workplace solutions.
Customer Focus: Explain how you prioritize customer needs and preferences, and ensure that Microsoft 365 services meet their requirements.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Microsoft 365 Administration: Highlight your experience in Microsoft 365 administration, security, and compliance, with a focus on strategic planning and operational management.
Problem-Solving: Include examples of how you have approached and resolved technical challenges in previous roles, with a focus on creativity and effectiveness.
Customer Focus: Showcase your ability to understand and meet customer needs and preferences, with a focus on secure and compliant access to Microsoft modern workplace solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will focus on your technical expertise in Microsoft 365 administration, security, and compliance, as well as your problem-solving skills, leadership style, and approach to collaboration and teamwork. Prepare for technical questions related to Microsoft 365 administration, PowerShell and Azure AD, security and compliance, and problem-solving. Additionally, be ready to discuss your understanding of IFS's company culture, team dynamics, and customer focus.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Systems Engineer - Microsoft Modern Workplace position:

Customize Your Portfolio: Highlight your experience in Microsoft 365 administration, security, and compliance, with a focus on strategic planning and operational management. Include examples of automation and scripting to demonstrate your ability to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort.
Optimize Your Resume: Emphasize your technical skills in Microsoft 365 administration, PowerShell, Azure AD, and related technologies. Highlight your problem-solving skills, leadership style, and approach to collaboration and teamwork.
Prepare for Technical Assessment: Brush up on your Microsoft 365 administration skills, with a focus on security, compliance, and automation. Familiarize yourself with PowerShell and Azure AD, and practice scripting for automation and integration. Prepare for behavioral interview questions by reflecting on your problem-solving skills, leadership style, and approach to collaboration and teamwork.
Research the Company: Understand IFS's company culture, with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and customer engagement. Familiarize yourself with the team dynamics and customer focus required for this role.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web technology industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Lead Systems Engineer - Microsoft Modern Workplace