Data Software Architect

Job description:

We are recruiting on behalf of a specialist Defence and National Security consultancy delivering some of the UK Governments most sensitive and strategically important digital programmes. Their work supports intelligence operations, cyber defence, data-driven automation and national infrastructure protection.

With significant programme expansion underway, they are seeking a Principal Data Architect to take ownership of data architecture strategy and technical direction across multiple classified environments.

The Role

This is a rare opportunity to sit at the core of national security delivery. You will shape enterprise-scale data ecosystems, define governance and interoperability frameworks, and influence adoption of AI/ML-ready platforms that enable faster, smarter and more secure operational decision making.

You will operate at senior stakeholder level and provide architectural leadership across long-term Defence programmes.

Regular London travel required.

What Youll Own

Enterprise data architecture strategy and roadmaps

Governance, interoperability and compliance frameworks

Secure, scalable data models and integration architectures

Platform modernisation and cloud migration strategies

AI/ML and advanced analytics data enablement

Cross-domain secure data sharing patterns

Architecture standards, documentation and best practice

What Were Looking For

Senior-level Data Architect experience within complex, secure or regulated environments

Strong enterprise architecture and data modelling background

Experience delivering modernisation or transformation programmes

Knowledge of:

Data governance, ethics and compliance

Interoperability and data standards

Analytics and visualisation platforms

Secure cross-domain data sharing

Experience across Azure, AWS or GCP ecosystems

Scripting / automation capability desirable

Security Clearance Eligibility

British citizenship

UK residency for the last 5 years

Eligible for high-level UK security clearance

Whats On Offer

Premium salary & benefits

Hybrid working

Generous funded training & career coaching

Long-term secure Defence programmes

Highly collaborative, technically driven culture

Why This Role?

You will architect platforms that protect national security, enable advanced intelligence capability and directly shape the future of UK Defence data strategy.

Qualifications:

You will be an experienced Data Architect with a background in secure or highly regulated environments.

Why is This a Great Opportunity:

Highly competitive salary (dependent on clearance & experience)

Hybrid & flexible working

Generous L&D budget, career coaching & funded training

Matched pension & healthcare

Supportive, collaborative culture with regular team socials