Data Architect

Sodexo; Manchester, Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A global services company is seeking an experienced Data Architect to join their Manchester team. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience leading data architecture discussions and expertise in Microsoft Azure. Responsibilities include developing data strategies and collaborating with key stakeholders. The role offers a competitive salary starting at £64,000 and various employee benefits.

Benefits

Sodexo retirement plan

Discounts to over 1,900 brands

Gym discounts

24/7 employee assistance programme

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ experience as a data solution architect.
• Experience leading architecture discussions with senior stakeholders.
• Demonstrable expertise in Microsoft Azure Data & Analytics.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine enterprise-wide data strategy.
• Advise on strategic data initiatives.
• Establish data integrity principles.

Skills

Data solution architect experience

Microsoft Azure BI expertise

API Gateways knowledge

Cloud Technologies (Microsoft preferred)

Strong analytical skills

Education

Architectural framework qualifications or experience

Graduate calibre

Tools

SQL Server

PowerBI

Databricks

Dremio

Job description

Job Introduction

We’re looking for an experienced Data Architect to join our UK & Ireland Technology, Digital and Data Integration (TDDI) team. You’ll help define and drive a future‑ready data architecture that supports Sodexo’s strategic goals, collaborating with both local and global stakeholders.

Curious and creative by nature, you’ll be a key contributor to our empowered Architecture team—scoping and designing solutions alongside colleagues across TDDI and the wider global architecture community. Partnering closely with Delivery teams, you’ll lead the design of complex solutions that address key challenges for our customers and colleagues.

Your architectural contributions will help drive revenue growth, reduce costs, and mitigate risk—directly supporting Sodexo’s strategic objectives. As a technical leader in a fast‑paced, complex environment, you’ll play a pivotal role in building a best‑in‑class architecture culture and capability.

Join Sodexo and be part of something greater. You belong in a team where you can act with purpose and thrive in your own way.

Main Responsibilities

• Develop and refine the enterprise‑wide data strategy to support business goals.
• Advise on strategic data initiatives, ensuring alignment with the overall strategy.
• Establish principles to maintain data integrity across Sodexo.
• Align data architecture strategy with business and technology roadmaps.
• Create and manage key artefacts (ER models, data dictionaries).
• Oversee solution delivery to ensure adherence to governance standards.
• Promote and embed data security best practices.
• Support third‑party data providers in aligning with enterprise architecture.
• Define and improve core data processes.
• Build strong relationships across EA, TDDI leadership, and tech/support teams.
• Collaborate with global teams, PMO, Cyber Security, and other stakeholders.
• Drive innovation in data use across the business.
• Optimise design patterns to increase efficiency and reduce cost.
• Contribute to global and regional design authorities to promote best practice.

The Ideal Candidate

• Graduate calibre with architectural framework qualifications or experience, TOGAF/BCS/Azure Solution Architecture.
• At least 5+ years’ experience as a data solution architect with success leading architecture discussions with senior customer executives, Enterprise Architects, IT Management and Developers to drive Data Platform and Analytics solutions.
• Demonstrable expertise with Microsoft Azure BI, Data & Analytics, as well as API Gateways, Logic and Function Apps (Azure Data Factory, Data Lake, Delta Lake, SQL Server, Analysis Services, PowerBI).
• Demonstrate expertise in other data tools such as Databricks & Dremio.
• Ideally understand API ingestion patterns as well as batch analytical patterns.
• Excellent experience and passion for the relevant architectural domains.
• Strong experience in Cloud Technologies (Microsoft preferred), COTS application integration, modern architectural ways of working and practices.

Package Description

Starting salary of £64,000, with potential for increase based on experience.

Benefits

In addition, we offer 20+ Sodexo benefits such as Sodexo retirement plan, discounts to over 1,900 brands for online shopping, gym discounts to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and a confidential 24/7 employee assistance programme providing independent support—including emotional, legal and financial advice.

Ready to be part of something greater?

Apply today!

About The Company

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone, building a better life for all. As a global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of On‑Site Food and FM Services, Benefits & Rewards Services and Personal & Home Services.

We’re all about building a workplace for the future. We believe in equal opportunities and celebrate diversity. We’re an inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome, can be authentic, and can be the best version of themselves. We recognise that we are on a journey with regards to diversity and inclusion and would therefore welcome applications for candidates from under‑represented backgrounds.

We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and ensuring disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations. We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.