At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to design innovative solutions and drive architectural governance.
- Company: Join The AA, the UK's leading motoring organisation with a rich history.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, health perks, and discounts on AA products.
- Why this job: Shape the future of architecture in a dynamic, multi-business environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in architecture and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Diverse learning opportunities and a commitment to inclusivity await you.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 84000 £ per year.
Location: London (hybrid working 3 office days per week)
Employment Type: Permanent, full time
Additional Benefits: Annual Bonus, Cash-Car Allowance & Private Medical Insurance
Think the AA is just about roadside assistance? Think again.
For over a century, we\’ve been evolving and adapting. Today, as the nation\’s leading motoring organisation, we offer a wide range of products and services to millions of customers. From roadside assistance to home and motor insurance, and the latest driving technologies, we have it all. As we continue to expand, diversify, and modernise, joining us as a Head of Solution Architecture means you\’ll play a crucial role in our success and be part of this exciting motoring journey.
Our Chief Operating Office (COO) are the backbone of The AA, providing both stability and structure to support growth and innovation. We are the drivers of change.
This is the job
Are you ready to shape the future of architecture in a complex, multi-business environment? We\’re looking for a strategic and collaborative leader to head up our Solution Architecture function at the AA.
AsHead of Solution Architecture, you\’ll lead a high-performing team responsible for designing and delivering scalable, secure, and innovative solutions that support our transformation journey. You\’ll play a pivotal role in evolving our architecture practice from project-based delivery to a product-centric model, ensuring alignment with enterprise strategy and driving value across a portfolio worth £80 million.
What will I be doing?
- Leading and maturing the solution architecture practice across the AA, fostering innovation and continuous improvement.
- Driving architecture governance across a large-scale, complex change portfolio.
- Acting as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders, translating business needs into actionable architectural solutions.
- Championing communities of practice and mentoring technical talent across the organisation.
- Overseeing end-to-end solution design, ensuring alignment with enterprise architecture and technical strategy.
What do I need?
- Proven leadershipin architecture practices, with strong experience in evolving and maturing solution architecture functions.
- Strong communicator and collaborator, able to engage across cross-functional teams and with stakeholders at all levels – technical and non-technical.
- Experience managinglarge-scale portfoliosand navigating complex, multi-business unit environments.
- A background inconsultancy servicesis highly beneficial, bringing a customer-focused and outcome-driven mindset.
- Deep knowledge of modern technologies, platforms, and integration patterns.
- Experience operating architecture governance controls and delivering measurable business value.
Additional information
We\’re always looking to recognise and reward our employees for the work they do. As a valued member of The AA team, you\’ll have access to a range of benefits including:
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays + holiday buying scheme
- Worksave pension scheme with up to 7% employer contribution
- Free AA breakdown membership from Day 1 plus 50% discount for family and friends
- Discounts on AA products including car and home insurance
- Employee discount scheme that gives you access to a car salary sacrifice scheme plus great discounts on healthcare, shopping, holidays and more
- Company funded life assurance
- Diverse learning and development opportunities to support you to progress in your career
- Dedicated Employee Assistance Programme and a 24/7 remote GP service for you and your family
Plus, so much more!
We\’re an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from everyone. The AA values diversity and the difference this brings to our culture and our customers. We actively seek people from diverse backgrounds to join us and become part of an inclusive company where you can be yourself, be empowered to be your best and feel like you truly belong. We have five communities to bring together people with shared characteristics and backgrounds and drive positive change.
Head of Solution Architecture employer: Automobile Association
Contact Detail:
Automobile Association Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Solution Architecture
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend meetups, webinars, or even just grab a coffee with someone who works at The AA. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got a portfolio or examples of your work, bring them along to interviews. Demonstrating your past successes in solution architecture can really set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to chat about the future! The AA is all about innovation, so think about how you can contribute to their transformation journey. Have ideas ready on how to evolve their architecture practice and drive value across their portfolio.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of The AA team. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Solution Architecture
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Solution Architecture role. Highlight your leadership experience and how you've evolved architecture practices in previous roles. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a strategic leader, you'll need to engage with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Use your application to demonstrate your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly. We love candidates who can bridge the gap between tech and business!
Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on your experience managing large-scale portfolios and navigating complex environments. Share specific examples of how you've driven innovation and governance in architecture. This will help us see your fit for our dynamic team!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and let us know why you’re the perfect fit!
How to prepare for a job interview at Automobile Association
✨Know Your Architecture Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and technologies in solution architecture. Brush up on your knowledge of scalable and secure solutions, as well as how they align with enterprise strategies. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're ready to lead the team.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, especially in complex environments. Be ready to discuss how you foster innovation and continuous improvement within your teams. This is crucial for the role, so make it a key part of your conversation.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you can effectively communicate with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Prepare to share experiences where you translated business needs into actionable architectural solutions. This will highlight your ability to act as a trusted advisor, which is essential for this position.
✨Demonstrate Your Consultancy Mindset
Since a background in consultancy services is beneficial, be prepared to discuss how you’ve approached customer-focused and outcome-driven projects. Share specific examples that illustrate your ability to navigate large-scale portfolios and deliver measurable business value.