Principal, Solution Architect - Systems in City of Westminster

Principal, Solution Architect - Systems in City of Westminster

City of Westminster Full-Time 72000 - 88000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Design innovative solutions that tackle real business challenges and lead architectural development.
  • Company: Join a pioneering international organisation committed to inclusiveness and innovation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid workplace, competitive benefits, and a focus on employee wellbeing.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact while shaping the future of technology in a diverse environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience in solution architecture, strong communication skills, and a passion for innovation.

The predicted salary is between 72000 - 88000 £ per year.

The Principal, Solution Architect is responsible for designing end to end solutions that solve the business's problem and supports the Technical Architect with its implementation.

The Principal plays a critical role in proactively leading activities that guide the development of a portfolio of solutions - including projects, products, systems (applications, technologies, processes and information), shared infrastructure and application services.

The Principal ensures technology solutions align with business objectives, value streams, architectural standards and help to shape future‑state architectures that drive strategic business outcomes.

Guided by the Bank's core values - putting users first, delivering elegant and reliable technology, being innovative, inquisitive and business‑aware - the Principal plays a key role in ensuring that architecture is not only technically robust, but integral to the Bank's long‑term success.

Accountabilities & Responsibilities Interpret and translate complex business and technical requirements into coherent architectural blueprints that achieve strategic business outcomes.

Document solution architecture design and analysis work, ensuring alignment with both current needs and long‑term objectives.

Work closely with product owners and product managers to maintain a robust architectural runway that supports future product evolution.

Collaborate with Technical Architects to transform high‑level solutions into actionable, implementable designs and support delivery teams in understanding architectural intent throughout the product lifecycle.

Lead the evaluation and ongoing development of future‑state technology architecture by monitoring the current solution portfolio, identifying technical debt, legacy risks, and misalignment with business requirements.

Analyse global and enterprise‑wide trends‑technological, economic, social, environmental, regulatory‑and apply strategic insight to guide innovation, drive technology refreshes, and support the sustainable evolution of services and systems.

Evaluate solution options, vendors, and platforms using tools such as cost/benefit analysis, proof of concepts, and RFP support, ensuring total cost of ownership (TCO) and fit‑for‑purpose design.

Define, lead, and govern the implementation of solution architectures across business applications and technology domains.

Develop long‑term roadmaps and provide architecture guidance at both the enterprise and delivery levels to ensure solutions align with business capabilities, value streams, and strategic direction.

Deliver enterprise‑level designs and architectural artefacts (e. g. solution documents, reference models, scorecards), and provide expert consulting to teams throughout the development lifecycle.

Partner with the PMO and project leads to track architectural alignment, facilitate architectural governance, and support a community of practice that promotes consistency, innovation, and adherence to architectural standards.

As the Solution Architect responsible for Systems, you will lead designing and implementing application architectures and integration solutions that ensure seamless communication and data flow between systems.

You will be responsible for architecting application landscapes that are scalable, resilient and aligned with business objectives, ensuring that integrated systems work efficiently across the enterprise.

Day‑to‑day responsibilities will include

  • Acts as the trusted advisor, defining, governing, and evolving architectures across Information Management, Knowledge Management, OGC, OCCO, Risk, Communications, and Editorial and Creative functions.
  • Develops and maintains end-to-end solution designs spanning Saa S, Low/No Code, CMS, Information and Knowledge management, and custom development platforms using Azure services, ensuring alignment with enterprise architecture standards, and security and regulatory requirements.
  • Translates complex business needs into technology solutions that balance cost, risk, scalability and usability, while building strong partnerships with product owners, delivery teams, and business sponsors.
  • Provides expert guidance on Adobe Experience Manager for digital experience and CMS platforms.

Defines and governs Low/No Code solutions on Microsoft Power Platform, ensuring best practice adoption and data governance.

  • Leads the evaluation of Saa S products and integrations for suitability, security and alignment with architectural principles.

Strong ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly, both in written and verbal formats, particularly when engaging with stakeholders

  • Experience in capturing technical requirements and documenting them in written and pictorial (Power Point, Visio etc)
  • Experience in engaging with business and IT stakeholders to gather requirements and ensure alignment between architecture and business goals.
  • Experience working within Agile, Dev Ops, and product‑aligned teams, contributing to sprint‑based and continuous delivery
  • Demonstrable experience working within TOGAF with deep understanding of its application
  • Expertise in solution integration, process orchestration, and data flow design across enterprise systems.
  • Demonstrable experience supporting enterprise change initiatives.
  • Expert knowledge in knowledge management solutions.
  • Practical expertise in Microsoft Power Platform (Power Apps, Power Automate, Power BI) and governance models.
  • Deep understanding of Saa S platforms, identity and access management (e. g. Microsoft Entra) and integration approaches.
  • Strong grasp of enterprise integration patterns, APIs, middleware and event‑driven architectures.
  • Experience in leading solution architecture using Azure services
  • Deep understanding of Java application design and development practices, enabling effective collaboration with engineering teams.
  • Strong knowledge of data, security, compliance and risk with shared service functions.
  • Proven capability in designing solutions across multiple technology domains in complex organisations.
  • Demonstrated track record of delivering architecture in at least one of the relevant business areas: Legal, Compliance, Risk, or Communications/Marketing.
  • Experienced in leading architecture on cross‑functional projects, managing diverse stakeholders and influencing senior decision‑makers.
  • Extensive background in working with Saa S, Low/No Code and custom development solutions within enterprise environments.
  • Ability to create and maintain architectural artefacts consumable by technical and non‑technical audiences.
  • Professional certifications desirable: TOGAF, Microsoft Certified (Power Platform, Azure Solutions Architect), Adobe AEM certifications.
  • Demonstrated commitment to continuous professional development in solution architecture and technology innovation, as reflected in certifications and training.

Our agile and innovative approach is what makes life at the EBRD a unique experience!

You will be part of a pioneering and diverse international organisation, and use your talents to make a real difference to people's lives and help shape the future of the regions we invest in.

At EBRD, our Values - Inclusiveness, Innovation, Trust, and Responsibility - are at the heart of how we work.

  • We bring these to life through our
  • Workplace

Behaviours: listening well and speaking up, collaborating smartly, acting decisively with full commitment, and simplifying to amplify our impact.

These principles shape our culture and define our success.

We seek individuals who not only share these values but are also committed to embedding them in their daily work, fostering a positive and high‑performing environment.

The EBRD environment provides you with

  • Varied, stimulating and engaging work that gives you an opportunity to interact with a wide range of experts in the financial, political, public and private sectors across the regions we invest in.
  • A working culture that embraces inclusion and celebrates diversity.

Our workforce reflects a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, bringing fresh ideas, energy, and innovation and enhancing our ability to serve our clients, shareholders, and counterparties effectively.

  • A hybrid workplace that offers flexibility to teams and individuals; that is based on trust, flexibility and connectedness.
  • An environment that places sustainability, equality and digital transformation at the heart of what we do.
  • A workplace that prioritises employee wellbeing and provides a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits.

Diversity is one of the Bank's core values which are at the heart of everything it does.

As such, the EBRD seeks to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities and works in an inclusive environment.

The EBRD encourages all qualified candidates who are nationals of the EBRD member countries to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, socio‑economic background or disability.

Please note, that due to the high volume of applications received, we regret to inform you that we are unable to provide detailed feedback to candidates who have not been shortlisted (for further consideration).

Job Segment: Solution Architect, Compliance, Sustainability, Developer, Architecture, Technology, Legal, Energy, Engineering

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Principal, Solution Architect - Systems in City of Westminster employer: European Bank for Reconstruction and Development

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. Located in the vibrant city of London, we provide comprehensive training opportunities and a supportive environment where your contributions to health and safety initiatives are valued. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the benefits of working in a diverse and inclusive organisation.

European Bank for Reconstruction and Development

Contact Details:

European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal, Solution Architect - Systems in City of Westminster

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We think you need these skills to ace Principal, Solution Architect - Systems in City of Westminster

Solution Architecture
Technical Requirements Analysis
SaaS Solutions
Low/No Code Development
Azure Services
Adobe Experience Manager
Microsoft Power Platform

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show off your coding skills:When applying for a software engineering role, it's super important to showcase your coding skills. Make sure your CV includes your tech stack, any relevant programming languages you’re comfortable with, and examples of projects you've worked on. If you have a GitHub profile, link it up! We love to see code in action.

Tailor your portfolio:For a full-time role, we’d expect to see some solid examples of your work in your portfolio. Make sure to include at least two or three projects that highlight your problem-solving skills and your ability to work with different technologies. Focus on the projects that are most relevant to the position at European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

Craft a killer cover letter:Your cover letter is your chance to stand out—make it personal! Explain why you want to work at European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and how your skills align with the role. Show us your passion for software development. We dig enthusiastic candidates who understand the value of collaboration and continuous learning!

Be clear and concise:When it comes to writing your CV and cover letter, clarity is key. Avoid jargon that could confuse us and stick to simple, direct language. Highlight your achievements with quantifiable results where possible, and keep everything easy to read. A well-organised application goes a long way!

How to prepare for a job interview at European Bank for Reconstruction and Development

Brush Up on Your Coding Skills

For a full-time software engineering role, it's crucial that we stay sharp with our coding abilities. Expect technical questions that might involve solving problems on the spot or discussing algorithms. Practise on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank to get comfortable with the types of questions that often come up.

Know Your Tools and Frameworks

Make sure we’re well-acquainted with the tools and technologies listed in the job description. Familiarise ourselves with any specific frameworks or programming languages mentioned. If European Bank for Reconstruction and Development uses React or Node.js, for instance, be ready to discuss how we’ve used them in previous projects or coursework.

Showcase Your Projects

Bring along a portfolio that highlights our best work. This could be code samples, GitHub repositories, or any side projects we’ve built. Make sure we can talk through our thought process for each project, especially the challenges we faced and how we solved them—this shows our problem-solving skills in action.

Prepare for Behavioural Questions

While technical skills are key, full-time positions also require cultural fit. Be ready to discuss our previous experiences and how we handle teamwork, conflict, and deadlines. Brush up on the STAR method—Situation, Task, Action, Result—to clearly articulate our past experiences when discussing how we've contributed to a team.