At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead solution architecture for top global brands and retailers in a dynamic team.
- Company: VML, a creative agency and tech powerhouse with a culture of innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, training, medical insurance, and discounts.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusion and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on digital transformations for exciting global clients.
- Qualifications: Experience in solution ownership and eCommerce technologies.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse. Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences. Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work.
The opportunity: A Solution Architect is required for a high-profile role giving the successful applicant the chance to lead the solution architecture for some of the world’s largest online brands and retailers and be an integral part of our talented and expanding Solution Architecture team. You will be responsible for creating and assuring solution architecture using a wide range of technologies, from SaaS eCommerce platforms through to client-specific cloud solutions. You’ll develop relationships with key client-side stakeholders in charge of IT and digital strategy and architecture, and you’ll work closely with our internal delivery teams to ensure your architecture vision is realised. Our Solution Architecture team not only focus on delivery but also work with our clients in delivering the best consulting advice to ensure world class solutions that enable our clients to transact more digitally.
What you’ll be doing:
- Working on large-scale digital transformation programmes with global clients, designing solutions for all the opportunity and complexity this brings.
- Own the solution architecture, document it, and communicate that architecture to a wide range of audiences.
- See out and develop relationships with key client stakeholders responsible for digital and architecture strategy.
- Orchestrate and run design workshops, and translate business strategy and requirements into solution architecture.
- Ensure your architecture vision is realised by our teams, across all phases of programme delivery.
- Understand common problems, design patterns and considerations for a distributed eCommerce architecture and apply this knowledge to your solutions.
- Understand the level at which solution architecture applies, and help transition your solutions to application and cloud architects and technical leads.
- Make and justify key architectural decisions considering all relevant constraints.
- Follow the principles and guidance set out by the Solution Architecture team.
- Contribute to the initiatives of our Solution Architecture team, including developing common patterns for new technologies and developing PoCs against industry trends.
What we want from you:
- Core understanding of the capabilities of a wide range of technologies typically found within an eCommerce landscape, including enterprise eCommerce platforms and components, and apply this knowledge to your solutions.
- Proven experience of solution ownership, experience delivering solution transformations, roadmaps and (or) integration strategies.
- Understand the capabilities of public cloud platforms and be an advocate of cloud-native solutions.
- Proven experience designing quality solutions, often large scale and transactional in nature, for global enterprise clients.
- Be client and delivery focused, able to adapt a solution to meet additional requirements and constraints and apply pragmatism when required.
- Have excellent communication, presentation and documentation skills.
If you know some of this, even better:
- Experience with OMS.
- Experience with PIM.
- Specific Solution Architecture experience with the following technologies: React, Next.js, GraphQL (incl. federated), Salesforce Commerce Cloud, Sanity.io, GCP.
What we can offer you: Alongside the opportunity to work with some of the most exciting brands around the world, we’ll also prioritise your career development and help you grow your skills. We’ll empower you to make a difference, allow you to be yourself, and respect who you are. Permanent only: We offer a great benefits package including a discretionary bonus scheme, training opportunities, competitive pension, medical insurance, life assurance, social events, opportunities to buy and sell holidays, family friendly policies, discounts with hundreds of retailers and much more.
Our personality and behaviours: Connect Meaningfully, Include Purposefully. Our brilliant, talented people are what makes VML Enterprise Solutions what we are. That’s why we look for people who go beyond and always push our thinking to be better than yesterday.
About VML Enterprise Solutions: Welcome to VML Enterprise Solutions, a multi-award-winning powerhouse of innovation, creativity and growth through technology in an ever-evolving world. Over 7,000 employees across VML’s global offices support VML Enterprise Solutions by helping to create and deliver digital transformations, Artificial Intelligence applications and technology solutions that introduce new operational efficiencies to organisations around the world. Our mission is to inspire global audiences to embrace and advance the world of online and offline shopping through seamless digital experiences and tech innovation. To achieve this, we work with many of the most exciting brands, such as The Coca-Cola Company, Ford, DFS, Dr. Martens, Johnson & Johnson, Mars, Nestlé, Sainsbury’s, Selfridges and Unilever. We’ve built over 500 platforms for brands and retailers and generate in excess of $56.5bn annually for our clients. We also work with over 50 strategic partners including Adobe, Salesforce, Shopify, Sitecore, Optimizely, BigCommerce, Commercetools and Acquia.
If you need reasonable adjustments at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know. At VML, we are committed to fostering an all-inclusive work environment that is both rewarding and career-forward. Our Inclusion, Equity & Belonging initiatives, alongside the VML Foundation, reflect our dedication to giving back and making a positive impact in our communities and beyond. Our people are the heartbeat of our organization—creators, doers, innovators, makers, and thinkers—who drive not just marketing, but meaningful experiences that resonate in every action and interaction.
Solution Architect (Commerce) employer: VML Enterprise Solutions
WPP Enterprise Solutions is an exceptional employer that prioritises your career development while empowering you to make a meaningful impact in the dynamic field of e-commerce. With a culture rooted in empathy, innovation, and courage, you'll thrive alongside talented professionals as you lead transformative projects for renowned global brands. Located in a collaborative environment, we offer unique opportunities for growth and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology and industry leaders.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solution Architect (Commerce)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at VML through LinkedIn or industry events. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding VML's projects and values. Tailor your answers to show how your skills align with their mission of innovation and growth. This shows you're not just another candidate but genuinely interested in being part of their journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! As a Solution Architect, you'll need to communicate complex ideas clearly. Run through mock presentations with friends or family to build confidence and get feedback.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the VML team.
We think you need these skills to ace Solution Architect (Commerce)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Solution Architect role. Highlight your experience with eCommerce technologies and solution ownership, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since you'll be working closely with clients and internal teams, it's crucial to demonstrate your excellent communication skills. Use clear and concise language in your application to reflect this ability.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to mention any specific projects or experiences that relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. This could include your work with cloud platforms or large-scale digital transformations.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at VML Enterprise Solutions
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
As a Solution Architect, you’ll need to demonstrate a solid understanding of various eCommerce technologies. Brush up on platforms like Salesforce Commerce Cloud and cloud-native solutions. Be ready to discuss how these technologies can be applied to solve real-world problems.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
You’ll be working with key client stakeholders, so it’s crucial to communicate your architectural vision clearly. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, and prepare to present your ideas confidently during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to design solutions under constraints. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated challenges and delivered effective solutions.
✨Demonstrate Your Client-Focused Mindset
VML values a client-centric approach, so be prepared to discuss how you’ve adapted solutions to meet client needs in previous roles. Highlight your experience in building relationships and collaborating with clients to achieve their digital transformation goals.
