Solutions Architect

Description:

Solutions Architect

2 positions available

£675.23 per day (Inside IR35)

Remote (occasional trips to Frimley GU23)

12 months

**CANDIDATES MUST BE ELIGIBLE FOR SC CLEARANCE**

Specify, design and assure information systems that support core organisational functions within key account or functional areas
Works within the Shared Services Enterprise IT Architecture area to define robust and cost effective solution architectures and designs to meet the business objectives and requirements of the customer, with responsibility for delivery of fit for purpose solutions in line with Shared Services Enterprise IT standards and policies
Works on multiple projects at any one time depending on the size of the projects working closely with the Project Manager and associated roles covering business change/analysis, service design, security and product development

Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively communicate the solution design to a wide audience including development and test teams, reviewers (both internal and external to Shared Services Enterprise IT), business management and customers

Typical duties include :

Defines the Solution Architecture and Design for the project to meet business requirements, within the project constraints of cost and timescale, and the agreed architectural and technical framework
Captures the as-is application, data and technology architectures for the assigned projects
Defines the to-be application, data and technology architectures for the assigned projects
Ensures, and where 3rd party elements are provided assures, that the overall functional and technical design of the solution is acceptable and fit for purpose
Provides Project Technical Authority (Project Engineering Manager) leadership of the IM&T solution and associated development and test teams, ensuring that the solution architecture and design is as required and is communicated effectively
Liaises with the product suppliers, COTS component vendors and sub-contract development and test teams
Ensures consistency and integrity of the solution implementation through overseeing the solution development process, and production of development work products
Provides design management and governance through the operation of change and configuration management activities
Works effectively with the Project Managers to support the development of the project plan, through assisting with the compilation and review of estimates and schedules, and identification of risks and approach to reviews
Engages with customers, stakeholders and suppliers to develop system requirements and solution design
Provides advice to support the design of service components including designing in flexible and scalable capacity
Provides advice, guidance and expertise to promote adoption of methods and tools and adherence to policies and standards
Evaluates and selects appropriate methods and tools in line with agreed policies and standards
Is responsible for consistent end to end delivery within area of accountability in line with agreed processes.
Continually seeks opportunity for business level improvements

Knowledge:

Proven experience in delivering IM&T solutions together with associated architecture deliverables
Proven knowledge and experience of working within architecture frameworks e.g. TOGAF
Understanding of the service lifecycle is advantageous e.g. ITIL
Hands-on experience with business and system requirements gathering / analysis
Proven experience in design and development of Information Systems
Strong understanding of information processing principles and practices
Technical knowledge of a range of IM&T business systems from ERPs through procurement to supplier managementSkills:

Excellent analytical, conceptual, and problem-solving abilities
Very good written and oral communication skills
Architecture and technical support documentation skills
Understanding of IM&T / software development lifecycle (including methodologies e.g. Agile) and associated reviews, policies, standards and governance processes
Strong interpersonal and consultative skills
Ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders at all business levels and present ideas in user-friendly language
Able to prioritise and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment
Experience working in a team-oriented, collaborative environment
Experience of technical leadership e.g. acting as a Project Technical Authority or Project Engineering Manager