At a Glance
- Tasks: Design modern, scalable cloud-native business services and lead architectural governance.
- Company: Join a charity undergoing a major digital transformation in Leeds.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of technology in a meaningful way while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in architecture, CRM solutions, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 € per year.
Are you a Solution Architect with a passion for designing modern, scalable, cloud native business services? Are you excited by the opportunity to shape a brand new digital landscape and play a pivotal role in a multi year transformation? Do you have the architectural expertise to help StepChange modernise its technology estate, strengthen governance, and deliver high quality solutions that support our clients and colleagues?
We are embarking on a major digital transformation as part of our new 5-year strategy, redesigning our technology landscape and building modern, integrated services that will power the charity's future. This newly created role will be central to maturing our architecture discipline and ensuring that our digital advice journey and wider business capabilities are built on strong, well-governed foundations. You will work cross-functionally with senior stakeholders, programme teams, vendors, and technical specialists, while collaborating closely with colleagues across Digital and Change Services to ensure architectural integrity, governance, and alignment with organisational strategy.
What will you be doing?
In this role, you will take ownership of designing critical business services and producing the architectural artefacts that underpin our new digital advice journey. You will lead the development and maintenance of our Charity Design Catalogue (CDC), ensuring strong design governance and supporting downstream solution, integration, and testing activities. As a key architectural authority, you will guide programme-level decisions, support RFP processes, and ensure solutions are grounded in well-considered architectural viewpoints. Your experience of implementing CRM solutions and integrating with wider business systems will be tremendously valuable as the charity embarks on this major feature of our digital transformation.
You will help shape and govern the charity's architectural landscape by producing detailed designs, maintaining standards, and contributing to governance forums and design assurance meetings. Collaboration will be central to your work, as you build strong relationships across Digital and Change Services and work with cloud partners and vendors to influence and oversee solution designs. You will also author and maintain architectural principles, policies, standards, and rules, while supporting the ongoing maintenance of the Application Portfolio.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives in transformation environments and is passionate about the value of architecture in delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions. You will bring strong foundational knowledge of enterprise IT and cloud-native operating models, experience across modern technology stacks and integration patterns, and the ability to balance cost, quality, and timeliness in design decisions. As a self-starter with excellent communication skills, you'll be able to translate complex concepts, mentor others, and design with both people and technology in mind.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Belonging is central to who we are. We're committed to building a workforce that reflects the clients we support, and a culture where everyone feels valued and able to be themselves. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and life experiences. If you need a reasonable adjustment to our recruitment process so you can perform at your best, just let us know - we're here to support you.
Solutions Architect - Leeds/Hybrid in Belle Isle employer: StepChange
StepChange is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Leeds that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development within our transformative digital landscape, ensuring that every team member plays a vital role in shaping the future of our charity. Our inclusive culture prioritises equality and diversity, making it a rewarding place for individuals passionate about making a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solutions Architect - Leeds/Hybrid in Belle Isle
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with folks in the industry! Attend meetups, webinars, or even just grab a coffee with someone who’s already in a Solutions Architect role. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can’t.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share your past projects and how you’ve tackled challenges in architecture. Use real examples to demonstrate your expertise and passion for cloud-native solutions.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every company is different, so make sure you understand StepChange’s mission and values. When you’re in interviews, align your answers with their goals, especially around digital transformation and governance. It shows you’re genuinely interested!
✨Follow Up
After any interview or networking event, drop a quick thank-you email. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate why you’d be a perfect fit for their team!
We think you need these skills to ace Solutions Architect - Leeds/Hybrid in Belle Isle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Solutions Architect role. Highlight your experience with cloud-native services and how you've contributed to digital transformations in the past. We want to see how you can shape our new digital landscape!
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills:Since this role involves working closely with various teams, be sure to mention any cross-functional projects you've been part of. We love seeing examples of how you've built strong relationships and influenced decisions in your previous roles.
Demonstrate Your Architectural Expertise:Use your application to showcase your knowledge of architectural principles and governance. Share specific examples of how you've designed scalable solutions and maintained high standards in your past work. This is your chance to shine as a key architectural authority!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at StepChange
✨Know Your Architecture Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the principles of modern, scalable, cloud-native architecture. Brush up on your knowledge of enterprise IT and integration patterns, as you'll need to demonstrate how your expertise aligns with the charity's digital transformation goals.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working cross-functionally, be prepared to discuss your experience collaborating with senior stakeholders and technical teams. Share specific examples of how you've influenced architectural decisions and maintained governance in previous projects.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in designing business services or implementing CRM solutions, and be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes.
✨Emphasise Your Communication Skills
As a Solutions Architect, you’ll need to translate complex concepts into understandable terms. Practice explaining your architectural designs and decisions clearly, as well as how you mentor others in the process. This will show your ability to bridge the gap between technology and people.
