At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape solution architecture and guide delivery for customer-focused technology changes.
- Company: Join AQA, a leading organisation committed to diversity and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working, 25-30 days annual leave, and an excellent pension scheme.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on customer journeys and influence the future of architecture at AQA.
- Qualifications: Experience as a solution architect with strong knowledge of customer systems and data architecture.
The predicted salary is between 75800 - 88300 £ per year.
AQA is looking for an experienced solution architect to support a major customer portfolio during a period of reform and change. This is a chance to help shape architecture for work that directly supports how AQA manages relationships with schools, colleges and other centres, while contributing to an architecture function that is evolving and maturing.
Purpose of the Role
You'll join the Enterprise Technology architecture team and work closely with business, portfolio, project and technical colleagues to understand what needs to change, shape practical solution options and guide delivery. A key focus will be the customer data platform and wider customer journey work, including sales, marketing and customer support systems. Your work will help AQA make better use of customer data, improve services for centres and support learners of all abilities through effective, joined-up technology decisions.
Key Responsibilities
- Shaping solution architecture across the customer portfolio, including as-is and to-be analysis, roadmaps, options appraisals and high-level designs.
- Working with business stakeholders, project teams, suppliers and technical teams to turn objectives into clear, deliverable and proportionate technology solutions.
- Supporting architecture governance by helping define patterns, guide low-level designs and make sure solutions align with AQA's standards, security requirements and wider technology strategy.
What We Are Looking For
- Experience as a solution, application or enterprise architect, with recent architecture experience in your role title or core responsibilities.
- Strong knowledge of customer, CRM, sales, marketing or customer service systems, ideally with experience of customer data platforms or similar application-led change.
- A good understanding of application and data architecture, with the ability to connect business goals, customer journeys, integration needs and technical delivery.
- Confidence creating architecture artefacts such as vision statements, roadmaps, high-level designs, options papers and design patterns.
- A pragmatic, collaborative style, with the ability to influence stakeholders, work with suppliers and keep delivery moving in a fast-paced environment.
What's in It for You
- This role gives you meaningful, varied work with the space to influence both a key portfolio and the future direction of architecture at AQA.
- You'll help shape customer journey change linked to reform.
- You'll have the opportunity to influence architecture maturity, working patterns and standards as the function continues to evolve.
- A 35-hour working week with flexible, hybrid working.
- 25 days' annual leave (rising to 30), plus Christmas closure days.
- Excellent pension (up to 11.5% employer contribution).
Diversity and Inclusion Statement
At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone-regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background-is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.
Application Process
To apply, please submit your CV through the AQA careers site. Applications close on Sunday 12 July 2026. Interviews: First stage: a short Teams interview. Final stage: a face-to-face interview in Manchester.
Solution Architect in Bolton employer: AQA
AQA is an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic and inclusive work environment in Manchester, where you can make a meaningful impact on education through technology. With a strong focus on employee growth, AQA provides opportunities to shape the future of architecture while enjoying a flexible hybrid working model, generous annual leave, and an excellent pension scheme. Join a diverse team that values your contributions and fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solution Architect in Bolton
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We think you need these skills to ace Solution Architect in Bolton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Tech Skills:In IT consulting, showcasing your technical skills is essential. Make sure your CV lists relevant programming languages, software tools, or methodologies you've worked with. If you've tackled specific projects or have certifications (like AWS or Cisco), bring those to the forefront. We're always keen to see how you can apply your skills to solve problems!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:For a temporary role at AQA, it's important to express your adaptability and eagerness to learn. In your cover letter, highlight how your past experiences have prepared you for quick integration into new teams and projects. A personal touch showing your excitement for the specific challenges at AQA can make all the difference!
List Relevant Projects:If you’ve worked on consulting projects or tech rollouts, don’t hesitate to mention them! Detail the challenges you faced, your contributions, and the outcomes. This practical experience showcases your ability to deliver value in a short time frame, which is key for a temporary role in IT consulting.
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How to prepare for a job interview at AQA
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In IT consulting, you’ll often face complex issues that need quick solutions. Be ready to discuss past experiences where you tackled problems head-on, ideally using specific frameworks or tools. Think about how you can highlight your analytical thinking and decision-making process during the interview.
✨Brush Up on Relevant Technologies
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