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- Tasks: Lead the design of enterprise data architecture and Canonical Data Model for a global education network.
- Company: Join International Schools Partnership, a leader in innovative education solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education data and make a real impact on student success.
- Qualifications: 8-10 years in data architecture with strong canonical modelling skills.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and contribute to a safe, supportive environment for all.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Purpose of Role
Own ISP's enterprise data architecture and Canonical Data Model (CDM), defining the structural backbone for how data is represented, integrated, mastered, and consumed across ISP. This role establishes consistent entity structures, governed source-to-canonical mappings, identity resolution standards, and repeatable data movement patterns into the Unified Data Spine. The role prevents re-fragmentation, enables certified KPIs, and underpins the Unified Student Profile (USP) and Unified Customer/Household Profile (UCP).
Scope & Complexity
Enterprise-wide, multi-country environment
Operates across ERP, HRIS, SIS, CRM, EdTech, Finance, Learning and regional platforms
Acts as enterprise authority for canonical modelling and data architecture standards
Balances architectural integrity with pragmatic delivery
ISP Principles
Begin with our children and students. Our children and students are at the heart of what we do. Simply, their success is our success. Wellbeing and safety are both essential for learners and learning. Therefore, we are consistent in identifying potential safeguarding and Health & Safety issues and acting and following up on all concerns appropriately.
Treat everyone with care and respect. We look after one another, embrace similarities and differences and promote the well-being of self and others.
Operate effectively. We focus relentlessly on the things that are most important and will make the most difference. We apply school policies and procedures and embody the shared ideas of our community.
Are financially responsible. We make financial choices carefully based on the needs of the children, students and our schools.
Learn continuously. Getting better is what drives us. We positively engage with personal and professional development and school improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Canonical Data Model Ownership
Define and maintain the enterprise CDM for priority domains
Own entity, attribute, relationship, and hierarchy standards
Maintain canonical definitions catalogue
Ensure CDM aligns to business language and KPI semantics - Source-to-Canonical Mapping & Transformation
Define SoR mapping principles
Approve source-to-canonical mappings
Define transformation and enrichment patterns
Prevent bespoke enterprise data models - Identity Resolution Architecture (with MDM Lead)
Define matching, linking, and hierarchy logic
Define identifier strategy (natural vs surrogate keys)
Ensure alignment between identity architecture and survivorship rules - Data Architecture Patterns
Define reference patterns for:
Ingestion
Transformation
Semantic modelling
Lineage & metadata
Access control - Governance & Gating
Review designs through Design Authority
Approve canonical model changes via Data Governance Council
Enforce "no bespoke data models" principle - Enablement & Adoption
Provide patterns, templates and guidance to engineering teams
Partner with BI Product Owner on semantic layer alignment
Partner with Cyber Security & Privacy Manager on secure data design - Decision Rights
Approve canonical model changes
Approve source-to-canonical mappings
Define reference data architecture patterns
Reject non-compliant designs
Key Responsibilities (Day-to-Day)
Maintain CDM artefacts and catalogue
Maintain SoR inventory
Maintain identity resolution standards
Support programme delivery with architectural input
Provide governance input to Design Authority and programme gating
Key Deliverables (First 6 Months)
CDM v1 for priority domains
Definitions catalogue
Source-to-canonical mappings for Wave 1 systems
Identity resolution architecture document
Data movement pattern catalogue
Reference semantic layer model
Success Measures / KPIs
% priority datasets using CDM
Reduction in duplicate entity definitions
Faster onboarding of new data sources
Improved KPI consistency
Skills, Qualifications and Experience
8-10+ years enterprise data architecture experience
Strong canonical modelling background
Experience with modern data platforms and integration patterns
Strong communication with business and engineering audiences
Systems thinking
Pragmatic architecture
Clear documentation
Influence without authority
ISP Commitment to Safeguarding Principles
ISP is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All post holders are subject to appropriate vetting procedures, including an online due diligence search, references and satisfactory Criminal Background Checks or equivalent covering the previous 10 years' employment history.
ISP Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
ISP is committed to strengthening our inclusive culture by identifying, hiring, developing, and retaining high-performing teammates regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender expression, age, disability status, neurodivergence, socio-economic background or other demographic characteristics. Candidates who share our vision and principles and are interested in contributing to the success of ISP through this role are strongly encouraged to apply.
Data Architect in London employer: International Schools Partnership
Contact Detail:
International Schools Partnership Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Architect in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at ISP or in similar roles on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your canonical data model knowledge. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to maintaining the enterprise CDM and aligning it with business language.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your systems thinking skills! During interviews, highlight how you've approached complex data architecture challenges in the past and how you can apply that experience at ISP.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the ISP team.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Architect in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with enterprise data architecture and canonical modelling. We want to see how your skills align with our needs, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves working with both business and engineering teams, it’s crucial to demonstrate your strong communication abilities. Use examples in your application that illustrate how you’ve effectively collaborated across different teams.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon unless it’s necessary. Make sure your key achievements stand out and are easy to read!
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 to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at International Schools Partnership
✨Know Your Data Architecture Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the principles of data architecture and canonical modelling. Brush up on your knowledge of entity structures, source-to-canonical mappings, and identity resolution standards. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the concepts but can also apply them effectively.
✨Align with ISP's Values
ISP places a strong emphasis on the well-being of students and the community. During your interview, highlight how your experience aligns with their principles of care, respect, and continuous learning. Share examples of how you've contributed to a positive environment in previous roles, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to data architecture patterns, governance, and integration strategies. Prepare by reviewing common scenarios and challenges in enterprise data architecture. Practising your responses will help you articulate your thought process clearly and demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Data Architect, you'll need to communicate complex ideas to both technical and non-technical audiences. Be ready to explain your past projects in a way that highlights your ability to bridge the gap between engineering teams and business stakeholders. Use clear, concise language and avoid jargon where possible to ensure everyone understands your points.
