EMM Architecture & Design Director

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

Job summary

A leading bank in the UK is seeking an experienced architect to set direction and design innovative solutions for complex IT systems. This role involves strategic consultation, stakeholder engagement, and the ability to accommodate challenging functional requirements. Successful candidates will demonstrate advanced technical expertise and the ability to manage significant projects, with a focus on quality and compliance.

Qualifications

• Expertise in complex architecture design and evaluation.
• Background in managing technical projects and teams.
• Ability to translate business requirements into architectural designs.

Responsibilities

• Set direction for the bank's complex IT systems and platforms.
• Define strategic architecture for specialized technology areas.
• Manage design and engineering initiatives supporting bank's strategy.

Skills

Architecture support

Stakeholder management

Technical consultation

Problem solving

Innovative design

Job description

Key Accountabilities

• Ensure effective support of business and technical change through direct architecture support of development activities and early engagement in business change. Support the evolution of architectural designs through delivery.
• Represent and actively 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 support sustainable long-term development.
• Partner with CTO, CIO, Engineering, Security, Data & Product teams to establish appropriate Architecture & Design for Change and Domains.
• Identify and surface technology, design, and architecture challenges with Head of Architecture, CIO, and support functions.
• Ensure designs and architecture meet Platform & Program goals.

Purpose of the role

Set 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

• Define the bank's strategic architecture direction for specialized technology areas, e.g., trading platforms.
• Provide deep technical expertise in designing and evaluating complex architectures, overseeing solution architects, and encouraging continuous learning.
• Manage innovative design, engineering initiatives, and complex projects by collaborating with technical experts to resolve issues supporting the bank's strategy.
• Develop and promote standards, guidelines, and governance policies to ensure quality, compliance, and risk mitigation.
• Identify emerging technology trends 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 the bank's technological needs through clear communication.
• Support community initiatives to mentor team members, streamline operations, and share knowledge.

Director Expectations

• Manage a business function, contributing to strategic initiatives, policies, and overseeing multiple projects.
• Lead a large team or act as a technical expert, guiding and coaching less experienced staff, and influencing strategic decisions.
• Provide advice to senior management and committees, influencing decisions outside own function.
• Manage resourcing, budgeting, and policy creation for a significant sub-function.
• Ensure compliance with policies and regulations, and monitor external environment and regulators.
• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of industry practices and external market developments.
• Use advanced analytical skills to solve complex problems and design solutions.
• Make significant and strategic decisions within own area.
• Negotiate and influence stakeholders at senior levels, both internally and externally.
• Act as the primary contact for key clients and partners, and represent the function and division publicly.

All senior leaders are expected to demonstrate leadership behaviors aligned with Barclays' values and mindset, fostering an environment for colleagues to excel and deliver excellence.