At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of finance solutions using IBM Cognos Controller.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in a hybrid work environment in Reading, UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborate with finance and IT teams in a supportive, fast-paced setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by transforming finance processes with innovative technology.
- Qualifications: 5+ years as a Solution Architect with hands-on IBM Cognos experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Reading, UK (hybrid on-site 2 days per week)
Work type: Contract / Permanent (to confirm)
Logistics Base location: Reading, UK
Hybrid pattern: 2 days on-site per week
Start: ASAP
Experience level: Senior (5+ years as a Solution Architect)
Role Overview
We are looking for an experienced Solution Architect to lead the design and delivery of finance consolidation solutions built around IBM Cognos Controller. You will work closely with finance, IT, and business stakeholders to translate complex consolidation and reporting requirements into robust, scalable architecture.
Key Responsibilities
- Own the end-to-end solution architecture for finance consolidation and group reporting platforms.
- Design and configure IBM Cognos Controller to support statutory and management consolidation, intercompany eliminations, and currency translation.
- Translate business and finance requirements into clear technical designs, integration patterns, and data flows.
- Define integration between Cognos Controller and upstream/downstream systems (ERP, GL, data warehouse, reporting tools).
- Provide technical leadership and guidance to developers, analysts, and finance teams throughout delivery.
- Produce architecture documentation, solution blueprints, and design decision records.
- Identify and mitigate technical risks, and ensure solutions meet performance, security, and governance standards.
- Support testing, deployment, and post-go-live stabilisation.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Minimum 5 years experience as a Solution Architect.
- Hands-on knowledge of IBM Cognos Controller.
- Strong understanding of financial consolidation processes: group reporting, eliminations, currency translation, statutory and management reporting.
- Proven ability to design integrations between consolidation platforms and enterprise systems.
- Experience working directly with finance stakeholders and translating accounting requirements into technical solutions.
- Excellent communication and documentation skills.
- Eligible to work in the UK and able to attend the Reading office two days per week.
Desirable
- Exposure to IBM Cognos Analytics / TM1 / Planning Analytics.
- Background in finance, accounting, or FP&A environments.
- Experience with cloud or hybrid deployments.
- Relevant architecture certifications (e.g. TOGAF).
Solution Architect in Slough employer: Skilliantech Ltd
As a leading employer in the finance technology sector, we offer a dynamic work environment in Reading that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our hybrid work model allows for flexibility while maintaining strong team connections, and we prioritise employee growth through continuous learning opportunities and mentorship. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking company that values your expertise and supports your career development in a meaningful way.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solution Architect in Slough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and tech sectors. Attend industry meetups or webinars where you can chat with potential employers and showcase your expertise in IBM Cognos Controller.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to solution architecture and finance consolidation. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to get comfortable discussing your experience and technical skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your projects! Create a portfolio that highlights your previous work with IBM Cognos Controller and any successful finance consolidation solutions you've designed. This will give you an edge and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Solution Architect in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Solution Architect role. Highlight your experience with IBM Cognos Controller and any relevant financial consolidation projects. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led similar projects in the past. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a Solution Architect, you'll need to communicate complex ideas clearly. In your application, demonstrate your ability to convey technical information effectively. We appreciate clarity and precision in documentation!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Skilliantech Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of IBM Cognos Controller and financial consolidation processes. Be ready to discuss how you've designed integrations in the past and how you can apply that experience to the role.
✨Speak Their Language
Since you'll be working closely with finance stakeholders, practice translating complex technical jargon into layman's terms. This will show that you can bridge the gap between IT and finance, which is crucial for this position.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've provided technical leadership in previous roles. Highlight situations where you guided teams through challenges, as this will demonstrate your ability to lead developers and analysts effectively.
✨Document Everything
Be ready to discuss your approach to producing architecture documentation and design decision records. Having a clear process for documentation is key, so share any templates or methods you use to keep everything organised.
