About the role

Solution Architect role with Barnet Council focusing on designing technology solutions for digital transformation. Lead architecture strategy for a 5-year technology investment plan.

Responsibilities

Set the strategic technical architecture direction for the council’s multiyear technology investment plan.
Research, evaluate and design complex information systems, infrastructure solutions and data platforms.
Lead the design of AI and automation solutions, advising on safe, effective adoption of emerging technologies.
Review and assure designs from third parties, ensuring alignment to corporate and industry standards.
Conduct feasibility studies and provide recommendations on proposed IT developments, including risks, costs and benefits.
Translate business requirements into clear technical specifications, both functional and nonfunctional.
Develop high-level architectural blueprints and refine these into detailed designs during implementation.
Work closely with cyber security, information governance and ICT teams to ensure compliance and security standards are embedded in all solutions.
Lead the development of technical standards, architectural principles and long-term roadmaps.
Negotiate with stakeholders to balance user needs, technical constraints, timelines and budgets.
Provide expert advice throughout the full lifecycle of projects, from discovery to delivery.

Extensive experience delivering enterprise wide architecture within complex, multisupplier environments.
Strong knowledge of infrastructure, cloud platforms, networking, applications, AI, RPA and data platforms.
Confidence designing and governing complex solutions, creating both high-level blueprints and low-level technical specifications.
Ability to translate user and business needs into functional and nonfunctional requirements.
Experience horizonscanning, evaluating emerging technologies and advising senior leadership on strategic adoption.
Expertise in IT architecture frameworks (e.g. TOGAF) and familiarity with modern engineering practices such as cloudnative, data driven and AIenabled architectures.
Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot legacy and modern systems alike.
Strong communication and negotiation skills, with proven experience influencing senior stakeholders.

31 days annual leave, plus public and bank holidays
Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, which provides a valuable guaranteed income in your retirement together with security for your dependents
Work-life balance options may include hybrid working, flexitime, job share, home working, part-time
A vast range of lifestyle discounts from major retailers, supermarkets, energy suppliers and more
Broad range of payroll benefits including cycle to work, eye care vouchers, travel and gym membership
Excellent training and development opportunities
Employee well-being training programs including confidential employee assistance