Data Architect

Data Architect (Azure/Data Platform) - Hybrid

Location: Hybrid - UK-based (Home/HQ)
Clearance: NPPV3 preferred

We require an experienced Data Architect to lead the design and delivery of a modern enterprise data platform.
You will take ownership of the end-to-end data architecture, driving data strategy, governance, and platform design to enable advanced analytics, reporting, and insight across a complex organisation.
This is a leadership role, working closely with senior stakeholders and guiding multidisciplinary data teams to deliver scalable, secure, and high-performing data solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Data Architecture & Strategy

• Own and deliver the enterprise data architecture strategy
• Design data models, data flows, integrations, and storage solutions
• Align architecture with business objectives and data-driven initiatives
• Lead the selection of tools, technologies, and frameworks

Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as the SME for data architecture across the organisation
• Lead and mentor teams including Data Engineers and BI Developers
• Engage senior stakeholders to translate business needs into data solutions
• Contribute to regional/national data strategy initiatives

Data Solution Design

• Translate business and analytical requirements into scalable data models and data marts
• Support analytics, reporting, and predictive modelling capabilities
• Work with engineering and analytics teams to deliver end-to-end solutions

Data Governance & Compliance

• Define and implement data standards, classification, and governance frameworks
• Ensure compliance with data security, privacy, and regulatory requirements (eg GDPR)
• Establish access control and data management best practices

Data Integration & Platforms

• Design and oversee data integration pipelines and ingestion strategies
• Identify and onboard new internal/external data sources
• Lead data migration and transformation programmes

Data Culture & Quality

• Promote data literacy and a data-driven culture
• Drive improvements in data quality, processes, and standards
• Resolve data challenges through root cause analysis and continuous improvement

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience as a Data Architect
• Strong experience designing and delivering modern data architectures
• Hands-on experience with cloud platforms (Azure or AWS)
• Strong knowledge of data modelling (dimensional and relational)
• Expertise in SQL and data querying technologies
• Experience with data integration, ETL, and data platform technologies
• Strong understanding of data governance, security, and compliance (eg GDPR)
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills

Desirable Skills

• Experience leading data teams or managing projects
• Public sector or regulated environment experience
• Knowledge of Power BI or other data visualisation tools
• Relevant data architecture certifications
• Exposure to big data technologies and platforms

Additional Requirements

• NPPV3 clearance preferred
• Eligibility/willingness to undergo security clearance