Lead Data Architect

A 1L Realization (Pty) Ltd; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading telecommunications company is seeking a seasoned Lead Data Architect for a 6 to 12-month contract. The role focuses on spearheading the data strategy and architecture for a complex BSS data migration program. The ideal candidate has over 10 years of experience in data architecture, particularly in the telecom sector, and is skilled in data modeling, governance, and migration processes, along with expertise in tools like Informatica and Talend.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in data architecture, with at least 5 years in telecom BSS domains.
• Proven experience leading large-scale data migrations.
• Deep understanding of data modeling and data warehousing.

Responsibilities

• Spearhead the data strategy and architecture for a complex data migration program.
• Ensure the integrity, scalability, and performance of data flows.
• Enable seamless transformation of customer, product, and billing domains.

Skills

Data architecture

Telecom BSS domains

Data migration

Data modeling

Data governance

Stakeholder engagement

Education

TOGAF or DAMA certification

Tools

Informatica

Talend

Azure Data Factory

Job description

SUMMARY

Our client in telecommunications sector is looking for a Lead Data Architect on a contract duration of 6 to 12 months.

We are seeking a seasoned Lead Data Architect to spearhead the data strategy and architecture for a complex BSS (Business Support Systems) data migration program. This role is pivotal in ensuring the integrity, scalability, and performance of data flows across legacy and target platforms, enabling seamless transformation of customer, product, and billing domains.

POSITION INFO

Required Skills & Experience

• 10+ years in data architecture, with at least 5 years in telecom BSS domains (CRM, billing, order management, product catalog)
• Proven experience leading large-scale data migrations, preferably in greenfield or transformation contexts
• Deep understanding of data modeling (conceptual, logical, physical), data warehousing, and integration patterns
• Hands-on expertise with tools such as Informatica, Talend, Azure Data Factory, or equivalent
• Familiarity with TM Forum frameworks, SID models, and telecom data standards
• Strong grasp of data governance, MDM, and regulatory compliance (GDPR, POPIA)
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and cross-functional leadership skills

Preferred Qualifications

• TOGAF or DAMA certification
• Experience in consortium-led delivery or multi-vendor environments
• Exposure to Agile delivery models and DevOps data pipelines