Solutions Architect

2 positions available

£675.23 per day (Inside IR35)

Remote (occasional trips to Frimley GU23)

12 months

CANDIDATES MUST BE ELIGIBLE FOR SC CLEARANCE

Specify, design and assure information systems that support core organisational functions within key account or functional areas. Works within the Shared Services Enterprise IT Architecture area to define robust and cost effective solution architectures and designs to meet the business objectives and requirements of the customer, with responsibility for delivery of fit for purpose solutions in line with Shared Services Enterprise IT standards and policies.

Works on multiple projects at any one time depending on the size of the projects working closely with the Project Manager and associated roles covering business change/analysis, service design, security and product development.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively communicate the solution design to a wide audience including development and test teams, reviewers (both internal and external to Shared Services Enterprise IT), business management and customers.

Typical duties include:

• Defines the Solution Architecture and Design for the project to meet business requirements, within the project constraints of cost and timescale, and the agreed architectural and technical framework.
• Captures the as-is application, data and technology architectures for the assigned projects.
• Defines the to-be application, data and technology architectures for the assigned projects.
• Ensures, and where 3rd party elements are provided assures, that the overall functional and technical design of the solution is acceptable and fit for purpose.
• Provides Project Technical Authority (Project Engineering Manager) leadership of the IM&T solution and associated development and test teams, ensuring that the solution architecture and design is as required and is communicated effectively.
• Liaises with the product suppliers, COTS component vendors and sub-contract development and test teams.
• Ensures consistency and integrity of the solution implementation through overseeing the solution development process, and production of development work products.
• Provides design management and governance through the operation of change and configuration management activities.
• Works effectively with the Project Managers to support the development of the project plan, through assisting with the compilation and review of estimates and schedules, and identification of risks and approach to reviews.
• Engages with customers, stakeholders and suppliers to develop system requirements and solution design.
• Provides advice to support the design of service components including designing in flexible and scalable capacity.
• Provides advice, guidance and expertise to promote adoption of methods and tools and adherence to policies and standards.
• Evaluates and selects appropriate methods and tools in line with agreed policies and standards.
• Is responsible for consistent end to end delivery within area of accountability in line with agreed processes.
• Continually seeks opportunity for business level improvements.

Knowledge:

• Proven experience in delivering IM&T solutions together with associated architecture deliverables.
• Proven knowledge and experience of working within architecture frameworks e.g. TOGAF.
• Understanding of the service lifecycle is advantageous e.g. ITIL.
• Hands-on experience with business and system requirements gathering / analysis.
• Proven experience in design and development of Information Systems.
• Strong understanding of information processing principles and practices.
• Technical knowledge of a range of IM&T business systems from ERPs through procurement to supplier management.

Skills:

• Excellent analytical, conceptual, and problem-solving abilities.
• Very good written and oral communication skills.
• Architecture and technical support documentation skills.
• Understanding of IM&T / software development lifecycle (including methodologies e.g. Agile) and associated reviews, policies, standards and governance processes.
• Strong interpersonal and consultative skills.
• Ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders at all business levels and present ideas in user-friendly language.
• Able to prioritise and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment.
• Experience working in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
• Experience of technical leadership e.g. acting as a Project Technical Authority or Project Engineering Manager.