Lead Pre-Sales Solution Architect – Data, Analytics, AI & Automation (Microsoft Focus)

Position Overview

• Location Type: Remote (US-based)
• Job Type: Full-time
• Salary: Not specified
• Practice: Manufacturing Intelligence

MCA Connect is seeking a visionary Lead Pre-Sales Solution Architect to drive the expansion of its Data, Analytics, AI, and Automation practice. This role involves shaping go-to-market strategy and delivering high-impact solutions using Microsoft's Azure, Fabric, Power BI, and related technologies. The architect will guide clients through modernization and digital transformation, architect modern data platforms, and ensure successful handoff to delivery teams. This position is ideal for someone passionate about enabling data-driven manufacturers, solving complex business challenges, and collaborating with sales, delivery, and Microsoft teams.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in data, analytics, and solution architecture roles.
• Proven success in a pre-sales or client-facing architecture role.
• Deep understanding of Microsoft Azure data services, including:
  • Azure Synapse, Data Factory, Data Lake, Databricks/Spark, Fabric, etc.
  • Power BI (Pro & Premium)
  • Azure AI, Machine Learning, and Robotic Process Automation
• Experience aligning modern data architectures to business strategies in the manufacturing or industrial sector.
• Experience scoping, pricing, and estimating delivery efforts in early-stage client engagements.
• Clear and confident communicator who can build trust with technical and business stakeholders.
• Approximately 20% travel is expected.

Responsibilities

Pre-Sales & Client Engagement:

• Lead strategic discovery sessions with executives and business stakeholders to understand business goals, challenges, and technical landscapes.
• Define solution architectures and delivery roadmaps aligned with client objectives and Microsoft best practices.
• Scope, estimate, and present proposals for complex Data, AI, and Azure-based projects.
• Partner with Sales to develop compelling business cases, differentiators, and value-based messaging.
• Represent MCA Connect in client presentations, workshops, and industry events.

Architecture & Solution Design:

• Architect end-to-end data and analytics solutions using Microsoft Azure (Data Lake, Synapse, ADF, Power BI, Microsoft Fabric, Azure AI Services, etc.).
• Evaluate data readiness, design cloud migration plans, and establish data governance and MDM strategies.
• Bring innovative thinking to build scalable, secure, and performant cloud-native solutions.
• Oversee solution quality from ideation through handoff to delivery teams.

Team Leadership & Thought Leadership:

• Support and guide sales consultants in aligning solutions, progressing deals, and closing business.
• Collaborate with Delivery to ensure project success and customer satisfaction.
• Contribute to thought leadership, IP development, and reusable solution frameworks.
• Stay on the edge of innovation by exploring new Azure capabilities, Generative AI, Copilot extensibility, and Fabric developments.

Company Information

MCA Connect helps manufacturers succeed by unlocking innovation with actionable business insights. Their strategic solutions, innovation, and industry intelligence assist manufacturers in gaining visibility, improving profitability, and achieving a competitive edge. Established in 2002, MCA Connect is one of the largest US-based solution partners for Microsoft Business Applications and Azure Data & AI / Digital & App Innovation. Their Microsoft Specialties include Finance and Supply Chain, Analytics on Azure, Data Warehouse Migration, and Power Platform. MCA Connect is a fifteen-time Microsoft Partner of the Year and a three-time Inc. Best Workplaces award winner.