Principal Architect for Group Technology Service Management (GTSM)

Barclays; Knutsford; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading bank is seeking a senior IT architecture director to set the strategic direction for complex technology systems. The role involves managing projects, leading teams, and ensuring compliance with industry standards while driving innovation and partnerships within the organization. Candidates should possess extensive knowledge, leadership skills, and the ability to influence strategic decisions.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of industry practices and technology trends.
• Ability to solve complex problems and design solutions.
• Experience in managing large teams and influencing strategic decisions.

Responsibilities

• Set strategic architecture direction for technology areas.
• Lead complex technology projects and initiatives.
• Manage teams, budgets, and compliance with policies.

Skills

Strategic architecture

Technical expertise

Leadership

Analytical skills

Job description

Purpose of the role

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

Accountabilities

• Set GTSM strategic architecture direction for specific technology areas, e.g., development of trading platforms.
• Provide deep technical expertise in designing and evaluating complex technology architectures, overseeing solution architects, and encouraging continuous learning within the GTSM architecture/engineering community.
• Manage innovative design, engineering initiatives, and complex technology projects by collaborating with technical experts across GTSM to resolve complex problems supporting the bank's technology strategy.
• Develop and promote architectural standards, guidelines, and governance policies to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance, supporting risk mitigation including breaches, access, and regulatory violations.
• Identify emerging technology trends, patterns, and innovations impacting GTSM and implement solutions aligned with the bank's strategic objectives.
• Maintain advisor relationships with business partners, architects, and engineering teams to drive successful design and engineering outcomes.
• Advocate for optimal solutions addressing GTSM technological needs through clear communication to support architectural decisions.
• Support engineering and architecture community initiatives to mentor team members, streamline operations, and share knowledge.

Director Expectations

• Manage GTSM, contributing to strategic initiatives, policies, and procedures, and overseeing multiple complex projects.
• Lead a large team or sub-function, embedding a performance culture aligned with business values, or act as a technical expert and thought leader, guiding cross-functional collaboration.
• Provide expert advice to senior management and influence decisions outside of own function.
• Manage resourcing, budgeting, and policy creation for a significant sub-function.
• Ensure compliance with policies and regulations, monitoring external environment and influencing when appropriate.
• Demonstrate extensive knowledge of industry practices and external developments.
• Use advanced analytical skills to solve complex problems and design solutions.
• Make strategic decisions within own area of authority.
• Negotiate and influence stakeholders at senior levels.
• Act as the principal contact for key clients and external counterparts.

All senior leaders are expected to demonstrate leadership behaviors aligned with Barclays' values and behaviors, fostering an environment of respect, integrity, service, excellence, and stewardship, and embodying the Barclays Mindset of empowering, challenging, and driving.