At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and implement scalable data architectures for groundbreaking drug discovery.
- Company: Join Novo Nordisk, a global leader in healthcare innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy career development opportunities, inclusive culture, and tailored benefits.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with a focus on collaboration and communication.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in science and technology while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Master’s in a technical field and 3+ years in data architecture.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Are you passionate about designing scalable and robust data architectures while working closely with diverse stakeholders? Do you enjoy communicating complex topics clearly and influencing decisions across technical and non‑technical audiences? We are looking for a Lead Data Architect to join our team within the AI and Digital Innovation organisation at Novo Nordisk.
Your new role
As a Lead Data Architect within Research & Development, you will design and implement the data infrastructure that enables our scientists to push the boundaries of drug discovery and development. In this role, communication and collaboration are central, as you work at the intersection of science, data and technology, translating complex requirements into scalable architectural solutions.
- Designing and implementing robust data architectures that support advanced analytics, AI/ML models and scientific research across R&D.
- Representing the data architecture requirements of R&D in discussions with our enterprise IT system architects and technical leads.
- Partnering with stakeholders across R&D to influence decisions and identify opportunities where improved data architecture can accelerate scientific breakthroughs.
- Collaborating closely with data scientists, researchers and IT teams to understand, challenge and align on data requirements, translating them into clear technical solutions.
- Designing and implementing data governance frameworks, standards and best practices, and advocating for their adoption across stakeholders to ensure data quality, security and compliance.
- Optimising data pipelines and integration processes to enable seamless access to diverse data sources, including human data, clinical trial data and experimental results.
Your new department
You will join the Data Ingestion team within the AI and Digital Innovation organisation, partnering closely with Data Science, AI & Analytics and data‑producing departments across R&D. The team works across organisational boundaries, where clear communication and alignment are key to scaling data infrastructure and pipelines that underpin analytics, machine learning modelling and research.
Your skills and qualifications
We are looking for an individual who thrives in a fast‑paced scientific environment and is confident engaging with multiple stakeholders. You combine strong technical expertise with the ability to explain, influence and build trust across disciplines.
- Hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Science or a related technical field.
- Have 3 + years of experience in data architecture as well as 5+ total years in data modelling or related roles, ideally within complex or regulated environments.
- Have experience operating in enterprise environments where architecture is decentralized and requires representation from different parts of the business.
- Demonstrate proficiency in designing scalable data solutions and working with cloud platforms and modern data technologies.
- Have strong capabilities in explaining complex systems to non‑technical stakeholders, including creating architectural diagrams tailored to different audiences.
- Excel at building strong relationships, facilitating discussions and balancing technical excellence with stakeholder needs.
What we offer
There is, of course, more on offer here than the uniqueness of our culture and the extraordinary results we produce. Being part of a global healthcare company means opportunities to learn and develop are all around us, while our benefits are designed with your career and life stage in mind.
Application Support
We are an equal opportunities employer, and we commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equality of opportunity for all our job applicants. If you're a person with a disability, if you're neurodivergent, and need any adjustments to be made during the application and selection process, please send an email to azzq@novonordisk.com. Please include your name, the role you are interested in and the type of adjustment your need.
Deadline 11 May 2026
Lead Data Architect employer: Novo Nordisk A/S
Novo Nordisk A/S is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and development, offering a dynamic work culture in Crawley, UK. With a strong focus on commercial excellence and health improvement, employees benefit from meaningful work, comprehensive training opportunities, and a collaborative environment that fosters innovation and success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Data Architect
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Novo Nordisk on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your communication skills. Practice explaining complex data architecture concepts in simple terms, so you can impress both technical and non-technical folks during your chats.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your collaborative spirit! Be ready to discuss past experiences where you worked with diverse teams. Highlight how you influenced decisions and aligned on data requirements to drive successful outcomes.
✨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 genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Data Architect
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in data architecture and how it aligns with the role. We want to see how your skills can help us push the boundaries of drug discovery!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves working with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, demonstrate your ability to explain complex topics clearly. Use examples from your past experiences where you successfully influenced decisions.
Highlight Collaboration Experience:We value teamwork! Share instances where you've collaborated with diverse teams, especially in fast-paced environments. This will show us that you can thrive in our dynamic setting.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for the Lead Data Architect position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Novo Nordisk A/S
✨Know Your Data Architecture Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest data architecture trends and technologies. Brush up on your knowledge of cloud platforms and modern data solutions, as you'll need to demonstrate your expertise during the interview.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Since this role involves translating complex technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders, practice explaining your past projects in simple terms. Use analogies or visual aids like architectural diagrams to make your points clearer.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Prepare examples that highlight your experience working with diverse teams. Be ready to discuss how you’ve influenced decisions and built relationships across different departments, especially in fast-paced environments.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in data architecture and how you overcame them, particularly in regulated environments, and be ready to share those stories.
