At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and scale backend systems for a fast-growing fintech platform.
- Company: Exciting Series A AI/fintech scale-up in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £270k, dynamic work environment, and growth opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborate closely with CTO and Head of Engineering in a high-growth setting.
- Why this job: Join a mission-critical team and make a real impact on financial technology.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in backend systems, strong Python and cloud experience required.
I’m working on a really interesting platform scaling hire for a fast-growing Series A AI/fintech company in London. They’ve built a product that processes millions of sensitive financial documents for lenders, brokers, insurers and fintechs across the US and UK. The platform is already mission-critical for customers — but rapid growth means the backend now needs to evolve from “built for speed” to “built for scale.” This role will work closely with the CTO and Head of Engineering and take real ownership of the core backend systems.
Key challenges include:
- Designing backend abstractions so a small engineering team can ship quickly and safely
- Scaling multi-tenant infrastructure across enterprise customers with different security and SLA requirements
- Supporting high-throughput document processing and ML pipelines
- Strengthening security, reliability and compliance around sensitive financial data
- Scaling systems from millions → tens of millions of documents
Requirements:
- ~8+ years building and scaling backend systems
- Experience in high-growth B2B SaaS environments (Series A → C)
- Strong Python + cloud infrastructure experience
- Experience working with large volumes of regulated or sensitive data
- Hands-on IC mindset — someone who enjoys architecting and building
- A strong background in Computer Science, with a university degree from a top ranked Global University is essential
Principal Backend Architect - FinTech Scale-Up (Python/AWS) in London employer: Oliver Bernard
Join a dynamic and innovative Series A scale-up in the heart of London, where you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of fintech by architecting robust backend systems that handle millions of sensitive financial documents. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, collaborative work culture, and cutting-edge technology, this company offers competitive compensation and the chance to work alongside industry leaders in a fast-paced environment that values creativity and ownership.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Backend Architect - FinTech Scale-Up (Python/AWS) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the fintech space and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. A personal referral can make all the difference, especially in a fast-paced scale-up environment.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio or GitHub repository that highlights your best projects, especially those involving Python and AWS. This gives potential employers a tangible look at what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on system design and architecture principles. Given the role's focus on scaling backend systems, be ready to discuss how you've tackled similar challenges in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Plus, it streamlines the process and gets your application in front of the right people faster.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Backend Architect - FinTech Scale-Up (Python/AWS) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your experience with Python and AWS, and don’t forget to mention any work you've done in high-growth B2B SaaS environments. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for what we do at StudySmarter.
Showcase Relevant Projects:If you've worked on projects that involved scaling backend systems or handling sensitive data, make sure to showcase them. We’re keen to see real examples of your work and how you’ve tackled challenges similar to those we face.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the updates directly from us. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the StudySmarter team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oliver Bernard
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in Python and AWS, as these are crucial for the role. Brush up on your knowledge of backend systems and be ready to discuss how you've scaled systems in previous roles, especially in high-growth environments.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to tackle hypothetical scenarios related to scaling multi-tenant infrastructure or processing large volumes of sensitive data. Think through your approach to designing backend abstractions and be ready to explain your thought process clearly.
✨Demonstrate Ownership and Leadership
This role involves taking real ownership of core backend systems. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve led projects or initiatives in the past, particularly in fast-paced settings. Highlight your hands-on experience and how you’ve mentored others.
✨Understand the Company’s Mission
Research the company’s product and its impact on the fintech landscape. Be ready to discuss how your skills can help them evolve their backend from 'built for speed' to 'built for scale'. Showing genuine interest in their mission will set you apart.
