At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead architectural direction for major projects in the public sector, ensuring alignment and integration.
- Company: Join a dynamic team within the Central Government sector, focused on impactful solutions.
- Benefits: Hybrid working model, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Engage with top security stakeholders and multi-supplier teams in a hands-on role.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public sector technology while shaping the future of digital solutions.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience as a solution architect with cloud platform expertise.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Sector: Public Sector / Central Government
Type: Contractor
Location: London (hybrid working)
Duration: 12 months +
Vetting: SC security clearance will be required, possible DV or eligible for both
Programme Architectural Leadership
The Chief Solution Architect is responsible for setting, communicating and maintaining the architectural direction for all major Year‑1 work packages, including:
- Programme Build‑Out
- Initial System Development
- Foundational Infrastructure
This ensures that delivery activity is:
- Aligned to a single architectural vision
- Consistent with agreed security and technical standards
- Sequenced and integrated effectively across suppliers
- Focused on delivering programme outcomes efficiently and safely
Hands‑On Engagement and Governance
This is a highly engaged, hands‑on role from programme inception, including:
- Developing early architectural artefacts, solution designs and integration models
- Leading and chairing programme‑level technical governance and design authority forums
- Working closely with the NCSC, cross‑government partners and senior security stakeholders
- Direct engagement with multi‑supplier engineering teams to resolve solution‑level issues and trade‑offs
The role acts as the primary architectural escalation point for the programme, providing clear decision‑making, technical leadership and assurance throughout mobilisation and delivery.
Reports to: Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
Works closely with: Programme Manager (reporting to Programme Director), Security Lead, Commercial Lead, Supplier Solution Leads
Experience Required
- Strong hands‑on background as a technical or solution architect on large, complex programmes.
- Proven experience delivering cloud‑based platforms or digital workplace solutions.
- Track record of leading architecture across multi‑supplier environments.
- Good understanding of:
- Cloud platforms (ideally GCP)
- Networked and secure systems
- Identity and access management
- Integration and interoperability
Highly Desirable
- Experience delivering systems at SECRET or high‑assurance environments.
- Experience navigating accreditation, assurance and security constraints.
- Experience integrating COTS platforms with bespoke and sovereign components.
- Comfort making and owning hard architectural trade‑offs under delivery pressure.
- Experience with cross‑domain interoperability (OFFICIAL → SECRET → TOP SECRET).
Our client operates hybrid working into London, occasional client site visits will be required into Glasgow.
For further details please apply including full CV.
Chief Solutions Architect in Manchester employer: Synapri
As a leading employer in the public sector, we offer an exceptional opportunity for the Chief Solutions Architect to thrive in a dynamic and collaborative environment. Our hybrid working model in London promotes work-life balance while providing access to cutting-edge projects that drive meaningful change. With a strong focus on employee growth, we support continuous learning and development, ensuring our team members are equipped to excel in their roles and contribute to impactful government initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Solutions Architect in Manchester
✨Join the IT Consultancy Buzz
Get involved in local or virtual IT consultancy meetups and forums. This is where we can rub shoulders with industry professionals, get insights into what Synapri values, and even spot unadvertised opportunities. Don't miss out on these chances to make a name for ourselves in the IT world!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a personal project or case study relevant to the challenges Synapri might face. Use platforms like GitHub or Medium to share your findings. This not only demonstrates our consulting skills but shows a proactive attitude, making us stand out from the crowd when applying for that full-time gig.
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Follow and engage with the relevant thought leaders and influencers in IT consultancy on LinkedIn. Share insightful content and join discussions to gain visibility. A well-placed comment or shared article could catch the attention of someone at Synapri!
✨Direct Apply to Synapri
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We think you need these skills to ace Chief Solutions Architect in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In IT consulting, it's all about problem-solving, so make sure your CV highlights your analytical skills and any relevant projects you've tackled. Mention specific technologies or methodologies you've used to resolve issues or improve processes; this shows you can think critically and deliver results, which is vital for us at Synapri.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Certifications like ITIL, PMP, or even specific tech stack qualifications can really make you stand out. Make sure to include these in your CV, as they not only demonstrate your expertise but also your commitment to staying current in the field. We love seeing candidates who are proactive about their professional development!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at Synapri. Share stories about your experiences in IT consulting, and how they shaped your desire to join our team. Mention why you’re excited about this particular role, and how you see yourself contributing to our projects.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We're all busy, so make sure your application is easy to read. Use bullet points for key achievements, and don’t overload us with jargon. A clean, professional layout goes a long way. Remember, the clearer your application, the more likely we are to invite you in for an interview!
How to prepare for a job interview at Synapri
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Skills
For an IT consulting role, be ready to demonstrate your technical prowess. You might face questions on systems integration, cloud technologies, or even troubleshooting specific software. If you have experience with tools like AWS, Azure, or even specific programming languages, make sure you can talk about them fluently.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Approach
IT consulting is all about solving problems for clients. Think about how you can illustrate your approach to a past challenge using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). It's a great way to show how you tackle complex issues and come up with effective solutions.
✨Know the Business Impact of IT Solutions
When discussing your experiences, focus not just on the tech solutions you implemented, but also on their business impact. Employers want to see that you can connect IT with organisational goals. Prep examples that highlight how your tech contributions improved efficiency or reduced costs for past clients or projects.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Since IT consulting often involves teamwork and client interactions, expect behavioural questions that assess your interpersonal skills. Be prepared with examples that demonstrate your adaptability, communication skills, and how you handle client feedback. Before the interview, think of situations where you worked closely with clients to create effective IT strategies or changes.
