Main Responsibilities
- Oversees other Solution Architects to define comprehensive and robust technology solutions for multiple medium- and high-complexity teams that fulfil Business needs.
- Ensures technology solutions are aligned with Enterprise Architecture principles and the wider architectural runway.
- Partners with other Solution Architects, Platform Architects, and Enterprise Architects (as required) to design large, integrated solutions.
- Provides high-level technical assurance for delivered technology solutions, ensuring their compliance with agreed technical guardrails and standards.
- Supports the Enterprise Architecture function in defining guardrails, standards, and solution patterns.
- Plays a critical role reviewing and advising on complex and/or high-risk solutions with the Enterprise Architecture Change Board; requesting exemption to agreed standards and guardrails as needed.
- Supports the evaluation and selection of software components to meet architectural design needs.
- Collaborates with Functional Consultants and Developers to troubleshoot complex technical issues.
- Builds and maintains a repository of all solution architecture artefacts and reusable components.
- Acts as a subject matter expert in solution design and a technical expert within the relevant functional / technology domain.
- Advocates for solution / component reusability (where possible) to expedite delivery progress.
- Documents and models existing solutions / systems architecture, identifying areas of technical debt for resolution by Product teams or the Enterprise Architecture function.
- Provides coaching to new or junior Solution Architects.
Skills / Knowledge / Experience
- Significant experience in designing comprehensive and robust technology solutions.
- Deep understanding of the technology landscape for the relevant Product Stream (e.g., SAP Hybris, HubSpot, SAP SD, .net applications, SAP MM, SAP FICO, CAD/CAM).
- Demonstrable experience in providing technical assurance for delivered solutions, ensuring compliance with common security and architectural guidelines.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for translating complex requirements into clear architectural blueprints and troubleshooting technical issues.
- Forward-thinking: an ability to anticipate medium to long-term implications of architectural decisions.
- Able to operate with high autonomy, with line management responsibilities for other Solution Architects in their Product / Platform team.
- Able to translate complex technology ideas to non-conversant Business stakeholders.
- Highly knowledgeable of latest technology trends and technology vendor landscape.
- Familiarity with Agile and Waterfall methodologies.
- Experience in establishing architectural guardrails and standards preferred.
- Hands-on coding skills in relevant programming languages preferred (e.g., Java).
- Ability to effectively mentor and grow future Solution Architect talent.
- Certified in TOGAF, Zachman, or equivalent certifications preferred