Lead Architect

Lead Architect

Full-Time 72000 - 88000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead architecture work in a transformative banking programme, shaping data strategy and integration.
  • Company: Dynamic financial services firm focused on innovation and transformation.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Join a collaborative environment with exciting challenges and the chance to influence key decisions.
  • Why this job: Make a significant impact in banking by defining future-state architecture and leading a talented team.
  • Qualifications: Extensive experience in architecture roles within investment banking and strong data strategy expertise.

The predicted salary is between 72000 - 88000 £ per year.

We are seeking an experienced Data & Solution Architect to lead architecture work within a financial services transformation programme spanning Corporate & Institutional Banking and capital markets. The programme will review client journeys, address fragmented data across multiple systems and define the future-state architecture needed to support a consistent, trusted view of information. This role combines data strategy and architecture with broader solution design, integration expertise and team leadership. You will need the credibility to engage senior banking stakeholders, challenge constructively and translate complex business requirements into a clear, practical delivery approach.

What you will do:

  • Review existing client journeys, business processes, data flows and supporting systems to identify gaps, dependencies and integration challenges.
  • Shape the data strategy and future-state architecture, establishing how information should be sourced, managed and shared across the business.
  • Define authoritative data sources and an approach to creating a single source of truth across interconnected platforms.
  • Develop integration patterns, solution blueprints and an architecture roadmap to guide implementation.
  • Connect data architecture decisions with the wider application, integration and enterprise architecture.
  • Lead a multidisciplinary team through discovery and architecture definition, providing clear direction and maintaining alignment across workstreams.
  • Facilitate discussions with senior business and technology stakeholders, explaining options, trade-offs and recommendations in accessible terms.

What you will bring:

  • Extensive experience in senior or lead architecture roles within investment banking, Corporate & Institutional Banking or capital markets.
  • Strong expertise across data strategy, data architecture and solution architecture, supported by practical experience integrating complex banking systems.
  • An understanding of institutional banking workflows and platforms, including trade services, capital markets, Pega and Murex.
  • Experience translating business and client-journey requirements into future-state architectures and actionable solution designs.
  • A track record of leading architecture teams and influencing decisions across business and technology functions.
  • Senior stakeholder presence, sound judgement and the ability to build confidence in an architectural direction.
  • A pragmatic approach to transformation, balancing long-term architecture with achievable delivery steps.

Timing: We are reviewing profiles now for anticipated October availability. The engagement is currently being shaped, with the start date subject to programme confirmation.

Lead Architect employer: SR2 REC LTD

SR2 REC LTD is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where innovation thrives. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, we provide opportunities for our team members to enhance their skills while working on cutting-edge authentication and identity projects. Our collaborative culture fosters teamwork and creativity, making it a rewarding place for professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the tech industry.

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Contact Details:

SR2 REC LTD Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Lead Architect

Tap into Campus Networks

If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.

Get Certified

Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.

Connect on Professional Platforms

Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.

Apply Directly and Be Proactive

Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like SR2 REC LTD. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.

We think you need these skills to ace Lead Architect

Data Strategy
Data Architecture
Solution Architecture
Integration Expertise
Team Leadership
Stakeholder Engagement
Business Process Review

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.

Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to SR2 REC LTD.

Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.

Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on SR2 REC LTD's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!

How to prepare for a job interview at SR2 REC LTD

Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills

Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with SR2 REC LTD.

Prepare for Case Studies

Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.

Show Your Passion for Finance

Since this is a full-time position, employers at SR2 REC LTD will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.

Network with Industry Professionals

Before your interview, reach out to current or former SR2 REC LTD employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.