How to Get a Better Cloud Computing Job After a Lay-Off or Redundancy

Contents

• Understanding Redundancy in the Cloud Sector

• Step 1: Reset and Rebuild Your Mindset

• Step 2: Re-evaluate Your Goals and Skills

• Step 3: Update Your Cloud CV and Project Portfolio

• Step 4: Optimise LinkedIn and GitHub for Visibility

• Step 5: Engage with Recruiters and Reconnect with Networks

• Step 6: Targeted Applications and Follow-Ups

• Step 7: Upskill in Key Cloud Technologies

• Step 8: Explore Contract, Remote, or Government Roles

• Step 9: Manage Your Finances and Mental Health

• Bonus: Top Cloud Computing Employers Hiring in the UK

• Final Thoughts: Relaunching Your Cloud Career

Understanding Redundancy in the Cloud Sector

Redundancy in cloud computing is often driven by restructuring, M&A activity, or shifting cloud strategies. Whether you were part of a large-scale layoff or a role-specific downsizing, it's not a personal failure.

Cloud services remain essential. Hybrid cloud, cybersecurity, automation, FinOps, and AI integrations are driving demand across sectors.

Step 1: Reset and Rebuild Your Mindset

First, process the loss:

• Acknowledge your emotions

• Reflect on your achievements and impact

• Recognise this as a chance to pivot or grow

Many cloud professionals find better-aligned, higher-paying, or more flexible roles post-redundancy.

Step 2: Re-evaluate Your Goals and Skills

Ask yourself:

• Do I want to stay technical (e.g. DevOps, infrastructure) or move towards architecture, leadership or consulting?

• Which providers (AWS, Azure, GCP) do I want to focus on?

• What industries or company sizes best match my interests?

• Do I want to specialise in areas like security, Kubernetes, cost optimisation, or hybrid cloud?

Step 3: Update Your Cloud CV and Project Portfolio

Make your CV outcome-focused and cloud-specific:

• Start with a strong summary including certifications (AWS SAA, Azure Admin, GCP Associate)

• Highlight measurable achievements (e.g. "Reduced cloud spend by 35% with cost governance strategy")

• List key tools (Terraform, Docker, Ansible, CI/CD tools, Kubernetes)

• Link to GitHub, project pages, or cloud labs (e.g. GCP Qwiklabs)

Step 4: Optimise LinkedIn and GitHub for Visibility

LinkedIn Tips:

• Use a headline like "AWS Solutions Architect | Terraform | Open to Work"

• Add a clear "About" section outlining cloud stack, experience, and goals

• Include certifications, projects, and client names (where permitted)

GitHub Tips:

• Share real cloud automation scripts, IaC examples, container setups

• Document repos clearly with READMEs and architecture diagrams

Sample LinkedIn About Section:

Cloud Engineer | AWS | Terraform | Kubernetes | Open to Work

Experienced cloud infrastructure engineer with 6+ years of designing scalable, secure AWS environments. Redundant as part of a company-wide restructure, I’m now open to permanent or contract roles where I can improve cloud operations and drive platform stability.

Core Skills: AWS, Lambda, EC2, VPC, CloudFormation, Terraform, Jenkins, Docker, Kubernetes

Looking to join a collaborative, cloud-first team. Let's connect!

Step 5: Engage with Recruiters and Reconnect with Networks

Cloud recruitment is highly relationship-driven. Be proactive:

• Contact cloud-specialist recruiters on LinkedIn

• Reconnect with former colleagues and hiring managers

• Join UK cloud meetups or webinars (e.g. AWS User Group UK)

Recruiter Message Example:

Subject: AWS Cloud Engineer | Available Now | Terraform & Kubernetes

Hi [Recruiter’s Name],

I’m seeking a new opportunity after a recent redundancy and have 6 years’ experience with AWS, Kubernetes, and infrastructure as code (Terraform). I’ve attached my CV and GitHub profile and would love to hear about any roles you're hiring for.

Best,
[Your Name]
[LinkedIn]
[GitHub]
[CV attachment]

Hiring Manager Follow-Up Example:

Subject: Application – Cloud Solutions Engineer Role at [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I recently applied for the Cloud Solutions Engineer role and wanted to express my strong interest. I bring hands-on experience in AWS architecture, cost optimisation, and containerisation, and I’m currently available following a company-wide restructure.

My CV and portfolio are attached. I’d love to discuss how I can contribute.

Kind regards,
[Your Name]

Step 6: Targeted Applications and Follow-Ups

Avoid scattergun job applications. Instead:

• Customise each CV and cover letter

• Align with job description keywords (for ATS)

• Keep a tracker of your applications

• Follow up 7–10 days after submitting

Step 7: Upskill in Key Cloud Technologies

Use redundancy time to future-proof your skills:

• Earn or renew certifications (e.g. AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Azure DevOps Engineer)

• Learn trending tools like Pulumi, Crossplane, or FinOps practices

• Use platforms like A Cloud Guru, Pluralsight, KodeKloud, or Coursera

• Join hands-on projects via open-source or freelance gigs

Step 8: Explore Contract, Remote, or Government Roles

The UK public sector and consultancies often hire contract cloud talent:

• Look at gov.uk Digital Marketplace, Defence Digital, or NHS Digital

• Explore remote-friendly cloud roles via job boards

• Consider consultancies and MSPs expanding their cloud practices

Step 9: Manage Your Finances and Mental Health

Redundancy affects more than your job. Support yourself by:

• Applying for redundancy pay, Universal Credit, or Jobseeker’s Allowance

• Creating a short-term budget

• Talking to trusted peers or mentors

• Setting a structured daily routine

• Taking breaks from screens and job alerts to recharge

Bonus: Top Cloud Computing Employers Hiring in the UK (2025)

1. Amazon Web Services (UK)

2. Microsoft UK (Azure)

3. Google Cloud (London)

4. Capgemini

5. Kainos

6. BJSS

7. CGI

8. NHS Digital

9. PA Consulting

10. The Alan Turing Institute

11. GDS (Government Digital Service)

12. Sky

13. PwC & Deloitte Cloud Practices

14. Monzo & Starling Bank

15. UKCloud

Browse current roles at www.cloudcomputingjobs.co.uk

Final Thoughts: Relaunching Your Cloud Career

Redundancy is not the end of your cloud journey—it’s a relaunch. With smart planning, renewed focus, and the right outreach, your next opportunity could offer more flexibility, growth, and purpose than ever before.

Let www.cloudcomputingjobs.co.uk support your next step.

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