EMM Architecture & Design Director

Barclays; Knutsford; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a strategic architect to define direction and design solutions for complex IT systems. This role involves collaborating with stakeholders to translate business needs into effective architecture, ensuring alignment with program goals. The ideal candidate will possess deep technical expertise and a passion for innovation, driving initiatives that support the bank's strategic objectives. Join a forward-thinking team where your contributions will shape the future of technology in finance, and be part of a culture that values respect, integrity, and excellence.

Qualifications

• Experience in designing complex IT systems and architecture.
• Proven ability to manage technical debt and ensure sustainable development.

Responsibilities

• Define and design solutions for complex IT systems and platforms.
• Collaborate with various teams to establish architecture and design.

Skills

Solution Architecture

Stakeholder Management

Technical Expertise

Governance Policies

Emerging Technologies

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science

Master's Degree in IT or related field

Tools

Architecture Frameworks

Project Management Tools

Job description

Key Accountabilities

• Support business and technical change through architecture support of development activities and early engagement in business change processes.
• Participate in Global governance and Architecture communities on behalf of EMM Architecture & Design.
• Build effective relationships with stakeholders and business units to understand needs and provide strategic consultation.
• Translate business requirements into solution architecture, design, and technical product roadmaps.
• Manage technical debt to ensure long-term sustainable development.
• Collaborate with CTO, CIO, Engineering, Security, Data & Product teams to establish appropriate Architecture & Design for changes and domains.
• Address technology, design, and architecture challenges with Head of Architecture, CIO, and other support functions.
• Ensure designs and architecture align with platform and program goals.

Purpose of the role

Define direction and design solutions for the bank's most complex IT systems and platforms, using industry-leading approaches to meet challenging functional and non-functional requirements.

Accountabilities

• Set strategic architecture direction for specific technology areas, e.g., trading platforms.
• Provide deep technical expertise in designing and evaluating complex architectures, overseeing solution architects, and promoting continuous learning within the architecture community.
• Manage innovative design, engineering initiatives, and complex projects by collaborating with technical experts to resolve issues supporting the bank's strategy.
• Develop and promote architectural standards, guidelines, and governance policies to ensure quality, consistency, and compliance, mitigating risks.
• Identify emerging technology trends and innovations, and implement solutions aligned with strategic objectives.
• Maintain relationships with business partners, architects, and engineering teams to ensure successful design and adoption.
• Advocate for solutions addressing technological needs through clear communication to support decisions.
• Support initiatives to mentor team members, streamline operations, and share knowledge.

Director Expectations

• Manage a business function, contribute to strategic initiatives, and influence policies and procedures.
• Lead a large team or sub-function, fostering a performance culture aligned with business values, or lead organization-wide projects as a technical expert and thought leader.
• Provide expert advice to senior management to influence decisions and strategies.
• Manage resourcing, budgeting, and policy creation for a significant sub-function.
• Escalate policy breaches appropriately and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Monitor and influence external environment, regulators, and advocacy groups as appropriate.
• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of how the function supports overall business objectives.
• Stay updated on industry practices and external developments.
• Use advanced analytical skills to solve complex problems and design solutions.
• Make significant strategic decisions within own area.
• Negotiate and influence stakeholders internally and externally.
• Act as principal contact for key clients and counterparts.
• Serve as a spokesperson for the function and division.

All Senior Leaders should embody the LEAD behaviors: Listen and be authentic, Energize and inspire, Align across the enterprise, and Develop others.

All colleagues are expected to demonstrate the Barclays Values—Respect, Integrity, Service, Excellence, and Stewardship—and the Barclays Mindset—Empower, Challenge, and Drive.