IT Solution Architect in Stratford-upon-Avon

Be the strategic force behind technology transformation at NFU Mutual, owning and delivering the Solution Architecture for assigned projects and programmes.

This hybrid role is based out of our Head Office in Stratford-upon-Avon. NFU Mutual currently has a vacancy for a Senior Solution Architect to join an established IT Solution Architecture team supporting a large change portfolio of transformational projects. This role will be working within the IT Solution architecture team embedded in one or more projects or programmes, working with specialists in different architecture and business domains whilst reporting to the Solution Architecture Manager.

As a Senior Solution Architect, you will:

• Own and deliver the Solution Architecture for assigned projects and programmes.
• Shape both initial scoping and detailed end-to-end designs.
• Define key design decisions and produce options papers to address gaps.
• Ensure robust architectural governance throughout delivery.
• Enable architectural change and contribute to standards and strategy.
• Provide thought leadership on emerging technologies and best practice.
• Collaborate with the wider architecture team and interface with third party suppliers.
• Act as an escalation point for complex technical and design issues.
• Manage and influence a wide range of stakeholders, building strong relationships across business, IT, and third-party partners.
• Co-create end-to-end solutions that balance strategic intent with practical delivery.
• Provide confident, well-reasoned decision making for complex architectural challenges.
• Guide stakeholders towards sound architectural decisions aligned with governance, standards, and long-term business goals.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrable experience of IT Solution architecture delivery including awareness of the latest techniques, standards and best practices used.
• Awareness of best practice in IT architecture – ideally with current industry standard certifications e.g. TOGAF.
• Understanding of a broad range of IT technologies and domains including applications, infrastructure and data.
• Good understanding and interest in the latest IT technologies, industry trends & architectures.
• Good familiarity with IT security best practice for IT system and software development.
• Experience and knowledge of software, system and integration testing; including best practice and automation.
• Experience of developing and delivering solutions across hybrid hosting environments including on-premise, cloud platforms (MS Azure and ideally AWS) and SaaS.
• Familiarity with IT architecture governance best practices.
• Demonstrable capability of effectively working with agile teams in a collaborative manner within a commercial environment.
• Experience of DevOps – including Configuration Management, Environment Management, Continuous Integration/Deployment and Release Management.
• Ability to identify and quantify key risks, including familiarity with risk management frameworks.
• Ability to work effectively with business and IT stakeholders, both internal and partners; displaying effective stakeholder management and influencing skills.
• Experience of translating business requirements into IT solutions and an ability to define the necessary NFRs to meet required business outcomes.
• Experience of working to tight deadlines and ability to perform under pressure.
• Good communication and presentation skills.
• Track record of owning and driving their own continuing professional development.

Benefits and Rewards:

• Salary – £75,000 – £90,000 depending on experience.
• Annual bonus (up to 25% of salary).
• Contributory pension scheme, up to 20%, including your 8% contribution.
• 28 days annual leave + bank holidays + buy/sell/save holiday trading scheme.
• A Family Friendly policy that helps you balance your work and family responsibilities.
• Private medical insurance + options to add family members.
• Access to savings at High Street brands, travel and supermarkets.
• £20 contribution to a monthly gym membership – subject to T&Cs.
• Health and wellbeing plan – cashback for dentist, opticians, physio and more.
• Employee Volunteering – volunteer in the community for one day each year.
• Unlimited access to Refer a Friend £500 bonus scheme.
• Life Assurance cover of 4 x salary.
• Employee discounts of 15% on a range of NFU Mutual insurance policies.
• Salary sacrifice employee car scheme – subject to eligibility.

At NFU Mutual, we support an inclusive workplace and value all the differences that make us unique. We celebrate the creativity and innovation that comes from diverse perspectives and experiences and share a common vision of doing the right thing for our customers and employees.