At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of enterprise-level data solutions and shape architectural standards at UCL.
- Company: Join UCL's Information Services Division, a top 10 global university.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, pension scheme, gym access, and employee support services.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; applications from underrepresented groups are encouraged.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on data-driven transformation in higher education.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in data architecture and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Information Services Division (ISD) is the primary provider of IT services to UCL. We support and enhance learning, teaching, research and administrative processes by providing information‑ and technology‑related services to over 50,000 staff and students of UCL and associated institutions. Our goal is to be the top IT services group in the HE sector, and we are growing our team’s capability in AI, experience/UX, agile development, security, cloud, service management and partnering. We are modernising our technology foundations, digitising the processes of the university to transform experience for students and staff, and partnering across the university to drive differentiation in UCL education and research.
Data Architecture within ISD enables UCL’s data‑driven transformation. It delivers enterprise data architecture, integration standards, analytics platforms, and AI foundations supporting UCL’s Data Strategy and Digital Strategic Plan. This is a fantastic opportunity to join UCL’s Information Services Division (ISD) as a Senior Data Solution Architect, to help deliver excellence whilst continually evolving and progressing at this globally recognised top 10 university.
About the role
The Senior Data Solution Architect defines and governs enterprise‑level data solutions across UCL. The postholder shapes architectural patterns, platform capabilities, data models, Fabric‑based data products, and AI‑enabled services, ensuring alignment with UCL’s enterprise data architecture blueprint and governance frameworks. The role provides strategic oversight, architectural assurance, and technical leadership, ensuring data platforms and solutions are scalable, secure, governed, and aligned to UCL’s strategic ambitions.
You will lead solution design in close collaboration with senior stakeholders, fellow architects, delivery teams, and external partners. Translating strategic priorities into pragmatic, resilient solutions, you will help shape architectural standards, patterns, and governance while remaining close to delivery. Acting as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, you will balance enterprise‑level outcomes with hands‑on architectural depth to address complex challenges with broad institutional impact.
About you
You are an experienced Data Solution Architect who combines deep technical expertise with the ability to lead, influence, and simplify complex decisions. You will have all or many of the following:
- Extensive experience in enterprise data architecture, modern data platforms, and domain‑driven or canonical data modelling.
- Strong hands‑on expertise with Microsoft Fabric, including Lake Houses, Pipelines, Dataflows Gen2, Semantic Models, and governance.
- A proven track record of designing and governing large‑scale data and integration solutions across analytics and operational systems.
- Deep understanding of data governance, including data quality, metadata management, stewardship, and architectural assurance.
- Experience designing API‑led and event‑driven integration architectures.
- Practical experience architecting AI‑enabled data solutions, with an understanding of responsible and ethical AI practices.
- The credibility and confidence to lead architectural governance, influence senior stakeholders, and guide institutional strategy.
- Excellent communication and leadership skills, with a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Desirable, but not essential
- Experience with Azure data and AI services such as Azure OpenAI, Purview, Azure Data Explorer, or Databricks.
- Experience working in a large, complex organisation, ideally within the higher education sector.
What we offer
- 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, and 6 closure days)
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- Relocation scheme for certain posts
- On‑site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
- Discounted medical insurance
Visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/rewards-and-benefits to find out more.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.
Senior Data Solution Architect in London employer: UK Dementia Research Institute
UCL's Information Services Division (ISD) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that champions innovation and collaboration. With a commitment to employee growth, ISD provides extensive benefits including 41 days of holiday, a defined benefit pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development in cutting-edge areas like AI and data architecture. Located in the heart of London, UCL fosters a diverse and inclusive culture, making it an ideal place for talented individuals to thrive and contribute to transformative educational experiences.
Contact Detail:
UK Dementia Research Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Data Solution Architect in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at UCL or in similar roles on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience with data architecture and AI solutions. This will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss real-world scenarios. Think about how you've tackled complex data challenges in the past and be prepared to share those stories. It shows you're not just theory, but practical too!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the UCL team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Data Solution Architect in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with enterprise data architecture and modern data platforms. We want to see how your skills align with our goals at UCL!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Senior Data Solution Architect, you'll be leading teams and influencing stakeholders. Use your application to demonstrate your leadership experience and how you've successfully navigated complex decisions in the past.
Highlight Technical Expertise:Don’t forget to mention your hands-on experience with Microsoft Fabric and AI-enabled solutions. We’re looking for someone who can dive deep into technical details while keeping an eye on the bigger picture.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Dementia Research Institute
✨Know Your Data Architecture Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in enterprise data architecture and modern data platforms. Brush up on your knowledge of Microsoft Fabric, including Lake Houses and Pipelines, as these are crucial for the role. Being able to discuss specific examples from your experience will show that you can translate strategic priorities into practical solutions.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Data Solution Architect, you’ll need to lead and influence others. Prepare to share instances where you’ve successfully guided teams or stakeholders through complex decisions. Highlight your ability to balance technical depth with strategic oversight, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Understand UCL’s Vision and Values
Familiarise yourself with UCL’s Data Strategy and Digital Strategic Plan. Understanding their goals will help you align your answers with their ambitions. Be ready to discuss how your expertise can contribute to their mission of transforming the university experience for students and staff.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions about data governance, API-led architectures, and AI-enabled solutions. Brush up on best practices and be prepared to discuss responsible and ethical AI. Demonstrating your technical prowess will be key to impressing the interview panel.
