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 and innovative atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping finance consolidation solutions that drive business success.
- Qualifications: 5+ years as a Solution Architect with hands-on IBM Cognos Controller 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 Reading employer: Skilliantech
As a leading employer in the finance technology sector, we offer a dynamic work environment in Reading, UK, where innovation meets collaboration. Our hybrid work model promotes a healthy work-life balance, while our commitment to employee development ensures that you will have ample opportunities for growth and advancement in your career. Join us to be part of a team that values your expertise and fosters a culture of excellence and support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solution Architect in Reading
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend meetups, webinars, or even local events related to finance and tech. You never know who might have a lead on your dream Solution Architect role.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your hands-on experience with IBM Cognos Controller. Share specific examples of how you've tackled complex financial consolidation challenges in the past.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every company is different, so do your homework! Research the companies you're interested in and tailor your conversations to show how your skills align with their specific needs in finance consolidation and reporting.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don't forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through us not only streamlines the process but also shows your genuine interest in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Solution Architect in Reading
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 designed solutions in the past, especially in finance environments.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since you'll be working closely with finance and IT teams, it's crucial to demonstrate your communication skills. In your application, mention instances where you've effectively translated complex requirements into clear technical designs.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates about the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Skilliantech
✨Know Your IBM Cognos Controller Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of IBM Cognos Controller. Be ready to discuss how you've used it in past projects, especially in finance consolidation. Prepare examples that showcase your hands-on experience and how you’ve tackled challenges with the tool.
✨Speak the Language of Finance
Since this role involves working closely with finance stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your understanding of financial processes. Familiarise yourself with terms like statutory reporting, intercompany eliminations, and currency translation. This will help you communicate effectively and show that you can bridge the gap between finance and IT.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions about solution architecture and integration patterns. Review your past projects and be ready to explain your design decisions and how you ensured performance and security standards were met. This is your chance to showcase your problem-solving skills!
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Solution Architect, you'll need to provide guidance to developers and analysts. Prepare to discuss instances where you've led teams or mentored others. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve facilitated collaboration between technical and non-technical teams.
