Lead Solution Architect

Lead Solution Architect

Slough Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Design and deliver scalable tech solutions while collaborating with business stakeholders.
  • Company: Join Big Bus Tours, the leading operator of open-top sightseeing tours worldwide.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, remote work options, performance bonuses, and more perks.
  • Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping travel experiences and making an impact globally.
  • Qualifications: 5+ years in solution architecture, preferably in the travel industry, with strong tech skills.
  • Other info: Flexible working pattern with 2 days in the office; no lengthy application process.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

We’re Big Bus Tours, the world’s largest independent operator of open-top sightseeing tours. We inspire the spirit of adventure across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific with a vision to be the number one thing to do in every world-famous city. Our hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tours offer a flexible approach to city discovery with a first-class customer experience.

Our Central Support Office, located in Victoria, London, is a driving force behind our business. With a team of specialists, they provide tailored support to our cities worldwide. If you want to get onboard check out the vacancy below.

Hours: 37.5 per week
Location: London, Victoria
Working Pattern: 2 days in the office and remainder at home, subject to change in the future

Role Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Lead Solution Architect to join our technology team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing and delivering scalable, secure, and high-performing technology solutions that align with business objectives. You will act as the bridge between business requirements and technical implementation, guiding teams through architectural decisions and best practices.

Key Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with business stakeholders to understand business goals, technical requirements, and user needs.
  • Design and define end-to-end technology solutions across platforms, services, and integrations.
  • Lead architecture design sessions and contribute to the development of technical roadmaps.
  • Provide guidance on modern architecture paradigms including microservices, APIs, event-driven systems, and cloud-native solutions.
  • Evaluate new technologies, frameworks, and tools to ensure the optimal solution is chosen for each project.
  • Work closely with delivery partners and product managers to ensure that architectural standards and best practices are followed throughout the delivery process.
  • Create architecture documentation, including solution designs, diagrams, and interface specifications.
  • Ensure that security, scalability, performance, and compliance are integral to every design.

Requirements

  • Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in a solution architecture or senior technical role.
  • Proven experience designing and implementing large-scale global solutions.
  • Proficiency in cloud platforms and cloud-native services.
  • Strong understanding of software development methodologies and frameworks.
  • Familiarity with RESTful APIs, integration strategies, data modelling, and system interoperability.
  • Experience with enterprise architecture frameworks (e.g., TOGAF, Zachman) is a plus.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex concepts into business language.
  • Prior experience working in or with companies in the travel industry (e.g., OTA, airlines, hospitality, booking systems).
  • Exposure to travel technologies such as GDS (Global Distribution Systems), CRS (Central Reservation Systems), or tour operator platforms.

We are proud to offer all our colleagues a competitive benefits package (pro-rata for part time), which includes:

  • 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays, Increasing to 30 with L.O.S
  • Employee Assistance Programme
  • Performance Bonus Scheme
  • BUPA Cash Plan
  • Enhanced Maternity & Paternity Pay
  • Aviva DigiCare+ (Remote GP & 2 Medical Opinion)
  • Death in Service
  • Cycle to Work
  • Complimentary Big Bus Tickets
  • Merlin Attractions Discounts
  • 5% Employer Pension Contribution
  • Sick Pay Scheme
  • Season Ticket Loans
  • Employee Referral Scheme

Next Steps
To apply for this role please click ‘Apply’, there is no lengthy application form and cover letters are optional. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by the hiring manager(s). Due to the volume of applicants our vacancies regularly receive, please allow 2 weeks from the closing date to hear back regarding your application although our team will endeavour to contact every applicant as soon as practicable.

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Contact Detail:

Big Bus Tours Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Lead Solution Architect

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the travel industry, especially in areas like booking systems and customer expectations. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your understanding of the nuances that are crucial for the Lead Solution Architect role.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the travel technology sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even referrals to Big Bus Tours.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your experience with cloud platforms and modern architecture paradigms during interviews. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've implemented these technologies in past projects.

✨Tip Number 4

Showcase your communication skills by being able to explain complex technical concepts in simple terms. This is key for a role that acts as a bridge between business and technical teams.

We think you need these skills to ace Lead Solution Architect

Solution Architecture
Cloud Platforms Proficiency
Microservices Architecture
API Design and Integration
Event-Driven Systems
Technical Roadmap Development
Enterprise Architecture Frameworks (e.g., TOGAF, Zachman)
Data Modelling
System Interoperability
Security Best Practices
Scalability and Performance Optimisation
Excellent Communication Skills
Presentation Skills
Travel Industry Knowledge
Experience with GDS and CRS Technologies

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Lead Solution Architect position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in solution architecture and the travel industry.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and any optional cover letter, emphasise your experience with large-scale global solutions, cloud platforms, and any familiarity with travel technologies. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise.

Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is crucial for this role, ensure that your application reflects your ability to translate complex technical concepts into business language. Consider including examples of past presentations or stakeholder interactions.

Follow Application Instructions: When submitting your application, remember that a cover letter is optional. However, if you choose to include one, make it concise and focused on why you are a great fit for Big Bus Tours. Double-check your documents for accuracy before submission.

How to prepare for a job interview at Big Bus Tours

✨Understand the Travel Industry

Since Big Bus Tours values experience in the travel industry, make sure you brush up on relevant knowledge. Familiarise yourself with booking systems, customer expectations, and operational logistics to demonstrate your understanding during the interview.

✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise

Be prepared to discuss your experience with cloud platforms, microservices, and APIs. Highlight specific projects where you've designed scalable solutions, as this will show your capability to meet the technical demands of the role.

✨Communicate Clearly

Excellent communication skills are crucial for this position. Practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to bridge the gap between business requirements and technical implementation.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Prepare examples of past challenges you've faced in solution architecture, particularly those related to scalability and security, and how you overcame them.

Lead Solution Architect
Big Bus Tours
B
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