Army Business Innovation Architect (Digital)

UK Ministry of Defence; Greater London; On-site; GBP 44,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Join the Ministry of Defence as a Business Innovation Architect (digital), where you'll lead the Army's digital transformation efforts. This role involves designing cutting-edge solutions to enhance operational efficiency and decision-making. You'll collaborate with stakeholders to implement innovative strategies while championing a culture of continuous improvement. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of digital defence and contribute to the Army's operational effectiveness.

Benefits

25 days paid annual leave

Highly competitive pension scheme

Personal and professional development

Access to Employee Assistance Programme

Enhanced parental leave

Access to on-site gym

Qualifications

• Proven expertise in digital transformation and technical architecture.
• Experience with emerging technologies like AI and cybersecurity frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of digital solutions for the Army.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure alignment with strategic objectives.
• Drive cultural change and foster innovation within the directorate.

Skills

Innovation

Leadership

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving

Communication

Education

Degree in Information Technology

Degree in Computer Science

Degree in Engineering

Tools

AI

IoT

Cloud Computing

Job description

Army Headquarters, Andover, SP11 8HJ

We are passionate about Smarter Working and believe that a combination of flexible working practices, digital technology and modern workspaces will give you the opportunity to enjoy a healthy work-life balance, while ensuing you deliver your outcomes effectively and efficiently – we expect you to know where to be to have the most impact, balancing your individual needs with that of your team and the organisation. However, recognising the benefits of face to face working, especially for new joiners, there is an expectation that you would be in the office at least 60% of the time (3 days a week).

Job Summary

The Ministry of Defence employs over 50,000 Civil Servants. Within that, the Army Top Level Budget (TLB) employs around 12,000 MOD Civil Servants located at over 300 locations. Ours is a diverse workforce, with roles ranging from trainers, human resources, teachers, and psychologists to storekeepers, financiers, project and programme managers, and policy secretariat staff. There are many different functions and professions delivering key outputs for the Army.

Step into the future of warfare with the Information Directorate, where data drives decisions and digital dominance defines victory. We lead in strategic data management, intelligence, and cutting-edge technology, delivering the tools that give the Army a decisive edge on the modern battlefield.

As part of our civil servant team, you’ll be at the forefront of information warfare, countering disinformation, safeguarding critical data, and ensuring information integrity in a rapidly evolving digital battlespace. You’ll work with state-of-the-art tools, including AI, advanced analytics, and next-gen tech, helping the Army outthink, outmanoeuvre, and outpace its adversaries.

In the Information Directorate, you’ll turn that vision into reality. From strengthening cyber resilience to driving digital transformation on the front lines, your expertise will shape the Army’s future. You’ll collaborate with a diverse network of experts, deploying innovative strategies to maintain the Army’s dominance in an increasingly contested information environment.

This is more than a job—it’s your chance to redefine digital defence, push the boundaries of innovation, and directly contribute to the Army’s lethality and operational effectiveness.

Join us. Shape the future. Strengthen the force.

This position is advertised at 37 hours per week.

Job Description

The Business Innovation Architect (digital) will lead the Army’s efforts to design, implement, and sustain cutting-edge digital solutions. This role involves overseeing the transformation of traditional military systems and technologies into advanced, data-driven operations that enhance operational efficiency, decision-making, and mission readiness. The architect will champion innovation while ensuring that technologies align with the Army's strategic goals and security protocols. This role offers the unique opportunity to drive technological advancement in one of the most respected institutions globally. As a Digital Innovation Architect, you’ll play a pivotal role in enhancing the Army’s capabilities for the future.

You will work closely with stakeholders, including Army Users to understand their needs and ensure that digital solutions meet the strategic objectives of the Army and Defence organisations. In this role you will:-

• Champion Modern Ways of Working: Drive the governance and ethics around the Army’s digitalisation adoption in accordance with Defence /cross government and Army design Authority policies and direction
• Empower Decision-Making: Develop and deploy relevant data and tools that provide actionable insights to leadership, enabling data-driven decision-making at all levels
• Drive Cultural Change: Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement by championing the use of digital technologies across the directorate, providing training and support to empower teams to embrace new ways of working
• Collaborate for Success: Partner with Defence Digital, Head Office, and the Strategic Hub to ensure alignment with broader MOD digital / data strategies and leverage best practices
• Shape the Future: Stay at the forefront of digital and data advancements including AI, continuously exploring new applications and opportunities to enhance the directorate's capabilities
  
  

Key Responsibilities Will Include:

• Develop and maintain the Army's digital innovation strategy in collaboration with key stakeholders
• Identify opportunities for digital transformation and innovation within the Army's operations and processes
• Design and architect innovative digital solutions to address operational challenges and improve efficiency
• Oversee the implementation of digital projects, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate digital solutions into existing Army systems and processes
• Stay up-to-date/ informed with emerging technologies and trends to recommend innovative solutions for the Army's digital ecosystem
• Conduct research and analysis to assess the feasibility and impact of digital initiatives on Army operations
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on digital architecture, security, and compliance requirements. Including Secure by Design
• Support the development of digital skills and capabilities within the Army through training and knowledge sharing
• Evaluate the performance of digital solutions and recommend improvements to optimize their effectiveness
  
  

This opportunity will place you at the centre of data and digital transformation, particularly in the use and development of AI technology and services, driving efficiency and optimisation of data across the Army, it will require you to work across directorates and closely with Defence/Government level organisations.

The Business Innovation Architect (digital) will lead the Army’s efforts to design, implement, and sustain cutting-edge digital solutions. This role involves overseeing the transformation of traditional military systems and technologies into advanced, data-driven operations that enhance operational efficiency, decision-making, and mission readiness. The architect will champion innovation while ensuring that technologies align with the Army's strategic goals and security protocols. This role offers the unique opportunity to drive technological advancement in one of the most respected institutions globally. As a Digital Innovation Architect, you’ll play a pivotal role in enhancing the Army’s capabilities for the future.

You will work closely with stakeholders, including Army Users to understand their needs and ensure that digital solutions meet the strategic objectives of the Army and Defence organisations. In this role you will:-

• Champion Modern Ways of Working: Drive the governance and ethics around the Army’s digitalisation adoption in accordance with Defence /cross government and Army design Authority policies and direction
• Empower Decision-Making: Develop and deploy relevant data and tools that provide actionable insights to leadership, enabling data-driven decision-making at all levels
• Drive Cultural Change: Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement by championing the use of digital technologies across the directorate, providing training and support to empower teams to embrace new ways of working
• Collaborate for Success: Partner with Defence Digital, Head Office, and the Strategic Hub to ensure alignment with broader MOD digital / data strategies and leverage best practices
• Shape the Future: Stay at the forefront of digital and data advancements including AI, continuously exploring new applications and opportunities to enhance the directorate's capabilities
  
  

Key Responsibilities Will Include:

• Develop and maintain the Army's digital innovation strategy in collaboration with key stakeholders
• Identify opportunities for digital transformation and innovation within the Army's operations and processes
• Design and architect innovative digital solutions to address operational challenges and improve efficiency
• Oversee the implementation of digital projects, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate digital solutions into existing Army systems and processes
• Stay up-to-date/ informed with emerging technologies and trends to recommend innovative solutions for the Army's digital ecosystem
• Conduct research and analysis to assess the feasibility and impact of digital initiatives on Army operations
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on digital architecture, security, and compliance requirements. Including Secure by Design
• Support the development of digital skills and capabilities within the Army through training and knowledge sharing
• Evaluate the performance of digital solutions and recommend improvements to optimize their effectiveness
  
  

This opportunity will place you at the centre of data and digital transformation, particularly in the use and development of AI technology and services, driving efficiency and optimisation of data across the Army, it will require you to work across directorates and closely with Defence/Government level organisations.

Person specification

We are looking for an enthusiastic individual who can handle the pressure of coordinating a wide range of activities and should be comfortable working within the data and digital profession, willing to challenge established norms and process and be prepared to adapt to changing priorities. Applicants should also have effective written and verbal communication skills and display a positive and professional attitude.

Essential:

• Self-motivated with proactive and results-oriented mindset, and a passion for driving innovation
• Proven expertise( leading innovation) in digital transformation, business process improvement, technical architecture, with a track record of successful implementation in complex environments
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams and stakeholders to embrace change
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a drive towards data-driven decision-making
• Knowledge of current cybersecurity frameworks and protocols
• Experience with emerging technologies like AI, IoT, cloud computing
  
  

Desirable:

• Familiarity with user focused agile methodologies and project management.
• Experience in performance and risk reporting and data visualisation ( Architectures)
• Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field or evidence of experience equivalent
• Familiarity with military operations and logistical systems
  
  

Behaviours

We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

• Delivering at Pace
• Seeing the Big Picture
• Changing and Improving
• Communicating and Influencing
• Working Together
  
  

We only ask for evidence of these behaviours on your application form:

• Delivering at Pace
• Seeing the Big Picture
  
  

Technical skills

We'll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:

• DDAT Technical Architect - Architect for the whole context (Working)
• DDAT Technical Architect Technical design throughout the lifecycle (working)
  
  

We only ask for evidence of these technical skills on your application form:

• DDAT Technical Architect - Architect for the whole context (Working)
  
  

Alongside your salary of £44,590, Ministry of Defence contributes £12,917 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.

The Army prides itself on being a supportive employer and where possible encourages flexible working, helping you to maintain a great work/life balance.

Other Benefits For Army Civil Servants Include:

• 25 days paid annual leave rising (1 day per year) to 30 days upon completion of 5 years’ service
• Highly competitive pension scheme
• Personal and professional development of skills
• Alternative working patterns for many roles
• Access to the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), a free service that assists you with achieving a productive, healthy environment that is conducive to a healthy lifestyle
• Enhanced parental and adoption leave
• 6 days special leave per year which can be used for volunteering activities
• Learning and Development
• Free parking
• Access to on-site gym
  
  

We believe that everyone has the potential to make a difference and you will be supported to help you learn and advance in your career. This includes working towards membership of a professional body and/or undertaking a modern apprenticeship as part of your role.

A modern apprenticeship is a combined package of work and training. Through the schemes available you will gain a professional qualification, practical experience, and the broader skills required to develop in your current role and pave the way for your future career.

Please Note: Expenses incurred for travel to interviews will not be reimbursed.

The post does not offer relocation expenses.

External recruits who join the MOD who are new to the Civil Service will be subject to a six-month probation period.

Please be advised that the Department is conducting a review of all pay related allowances which could impact on those allowances that the post currently being advertised attracts.

Any move to MOD from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax-Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/.

The Ministry of Defence is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for its staff which includes educating them on the benefits of not smoking, protecting them from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke and supporting those who want to give up smoking. Under the Smoke-Free Working Environment policy, Smoking and the use of all tobacco products (including combustible and chewing tobacco products) will not be permitted anywhere in the Defence working environment however some exemptions are in place, please refer to local guidance. The policy is Whole Force and includes all Defence personnel, contractors, visitors and other non-MOD personnel. All applicants seeking, considering, or accepting employment with the Ministry of Defence should be aware of this policy and that it is already in place at a number of Defence Establishments.

MOD Recruitment Satisfaction Survey – We may contact you regarding your experience to help us improve our customer satisfaction. The survey is voluntary and anonymous. You may however be given the opportunity to provide additional information to help us improve our service which includes the collection of some personal data as defined by the United Kingdom General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR). The MOD Privacy Policy Notice sets out how we will use your personal data and your rights.

Selection process details

This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Experience and Technical skills.

At application you will be assessed against the following -

• Experience - a personal statement of no more than 750 words evidencing your suitability for the role against the person specification and technical elements
• Behaviours - Delivering at Pace, Seeing the Bigger Picture (Lead behaviour)
• Technical - DDAT Technical Architect - Architect for the whole context (working level) taken from the Government Digital and Data Profession Capability Framework Technical architect - Government Digital and Data Profession Capability Framework
  
  

Applications will be sifted using all elements listed above, but in the event of a high number of applications, a sift will be conducted on the personal statement and lead behaviour only: Seeing the Bigger Picture.

At interview you will be assessed against the following -

• Experience based question on your knowledge of current cybersecurity frameworks and protocols
• Behaviours - Changing and Improving, Communicating and Influencing, Working Together
• Technical - DDAT Technical Architect - Technical design throughout the lifecycle (working level) taken from the Government Digital and Data Profession Capability Framework Technical architect - Government Digital and Data Profession Capability Framework
  
  

Application sifting will be scheduled to take place within 7 days of the application closing date. Interview dates are to be confirmed but these will be held in person at Army Headquarters, Andover. We endeavour to keep to these time frames, but these are subject to change around business needs.

The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. There is a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria. If you need to advise us that you need additional help or reasonable adjustments for the recruitment process, please contact: [e-mail].

As a result of the changes to the UK immigration rules which came in to effect on 1 January 2021, the Ministry of Defence will only offer sponsorship for a skilled worker visa under the points based system, where a role has been deemed to be business critical. This role does not meet that category and we will not sponsor a visa. It is therefore NOT open to applications from those who will require sponsorship under the points based system.

Should you apply for this role and be found to require sponsorship, your application will be rejected and any provisional offer of employment withdrawn

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.

This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Experience and Technical skills.

Security

Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.

Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is security check (opens in a new window).See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).

People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.

Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.

Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is security check (opens in a new window).See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).

People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.

Nationality requirements

This Job Is Broadly Open To The Following Groups:

• UK nationals
• nationals of the Republic of Ireland
• nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
• individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
• Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
  
  

Further information on nationality requirements (opens in a new window)

Working for the Civil Service

The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.

We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).

The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.

The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.

The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.

We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).

The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.

The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.

Diversity and Inclusion

The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).

This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative.

Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.

Contact point for applicants

Job Contact :

• Name : Sally Wareham
• Email : [e-mail]
  
  

Recruitment team

• Email : [e-mail]
  
  

Further information

Please ensure you read the attached candidate information document prior to completing your application. If you are dissatisfied with the service you have received from DBS, or believe that DBS has failed to follow the recruitment process in line with the Civil Service Commission principles of selection for appointment on merit on the basis of Fair and Open competition, you can raise a formal complaint by writing to DBS at the following address: Defence Business Services, Scanning Hub, Room 6124, Tomlinson House, Norcross Lane, Blackpool, FY5 3WP. If after raising your complaint with DBS you remain dissatisfied you can complain directly to the Civil Service Commission at the following address: Civil Service commission, Room G/8, 1 Horse Guards Road, London, SW1A 2HQ Or by email: [e-mail].