Lead Solution Architect - Java, GCP

We're seeking a hands-on Lead Solution Architect to design and deliver scalable, microservice and event-driven solutions within a complex, high-impact platform environment. This is a technical leadership role where you will actively contribute to solution design and engineering decisions, not just operate at a governance level.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and deliver scalable, maintainable microservices and event-based architectures in a hands-on capacity.

• Contribute directly to technical design decisions, architecture reviews, and engineering standards.

• Lead complex solution design initiatives while remaining close to delivery teams.

• Collaborate with Product Owners, engineers, and Enterprise Architects to enable high-quality delivery at pace.

• Define and embed architectural patterns, standards, and best practices across engineering teams.

• Champion compliance, quality assurance, and effective change management.

• Mentor and coach engineers and architects, fostering technical excellence and continuous improvement.

• Influence long-term architectural strategy while balancing immediate delivery needs.

Essential:

• Strong architecture and engineering background, with proven experience designing microservice and cloud-based solutions.

• Previous hands-on software engineering experience and the ability to engage deeply in technical discussions and solution design.

• Experience modernising legacy or monolithic systems into scalable, cloud-native ecosystems.

• Ability to clearly articulate architectural vision and gain stakeholder alignment.

• Experience defining practical engineering standards, patterns, and delivery practices.

• Strong collaboration and influencing skills across product and engineering communities.

Desirable:

• Experience leading small to medium-sized teams.

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates