Principal Architect - Data Strategy & Governance

Principal Architect - Data Strategy & Governance

Department: Azure

Employment Type: Contract / Temp

Location: UK

Description We are seeking a strategic and hands-on Principal Architect to join our Data Analytics practice and lead Data Strategy and Governance engagements. This pivotal role will guide our clients, including large public sector bodies, in defining and executing comprehensive data strategies, shaping how their data is managed, governed, and leveraged to drive significant business outcomes.

You will act as a thought leader and trusted advisor, combining deep expertise in governance frameworks with the technical authority to architect enterprise-scale solutions. This role works in close partnership with the Data Practice Lead, who maintains responsibility for the technical implementation of solutions once they are defined and sold. The ideal candidate will be a superb communicator with a passion for mentoring others and building data-driven cultures within client organisations.

Key Responsibilities
Data Strategy & Envisioning

• Lead consulting engagements to design and deliver robust data strategies and transformation programmes aligned with client business goals.
• Build, communicate, and own a clear roadmap for data initiatives, establishing success metrics and tracking progress against KPIs.
• Facilitate envisioning workshops with senior business owners to translate complex challenges and opportunities into tangible, data-driven use cases and solutions.

Data Governance & Modelling

• Define and implement scalable, enterprise-wide data governance frameworks, covering data quality, access, compliance, and stewardship.
• Champion and apply industry best-practice frameworks such as DAMA and DCAM to mature client data management capabilities.
• Lead engagements on enterprise data modelling and information architecture, guiding clients to establish frameworks that improve data quality and trust.

Technical Architecture & Presales

• Act as the lead technical authority during the presales cycle for data strategy and platform opportunities, articulating business value and developing compelling proposals.
• Collaborate with senior architects across our Dynamics 365, Power Platform, Application Development, and Security practices to develop cohesive target architectures and ensure clarity on outcomes for large-scale, multi-cloud bids.
• Design and document end-to-end technical architectures for modern data platforms, with a primary focus on the Microsoft Azure stack (e.g., Microsoft Fabric, Azure Synapse, Data Factory, Databricks, Power BI).
• Provide architectural governance and oversight during project inception, ensuring a seamless handover to the Data Analytics Practice Lead for technical execution.

Culture & Leadership

• Develop and lead training programmes and mentorship initiatives to foster a data-driven culture and upskill teams within client organisations.
• Communicate strategy, progress, and value effectively to diverse stakeholders, from C-level executives to technical delivery teams.
• Stay at the forefront of emerging trends in the data and AI landscape, driving innovation within our practice and for our clients.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Essential:

• Proven experience in a senior, client-facing leadership role such as a Principal Consultant, Data Architect, or Head of Data Governance.
• Extensive experience in developing and implementing enterprise-wide data strategies and governance frameworks.
• Demonstrable experience in data-centric consulting, including leading strategic workshops and engaging with C-level stakeholders.
• Significant experience in presales activities for large-scale data projects.
• Strong understanding of data architecture, data management, and regulatory compliance (e.g., GDPR).
• Deep expertise in designing solutions using the Microsoft Azure data platform.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with experience designing and delivering training or mentorship programmes.

Desirable:

• Practical experience with data governance tools and applying frameworks like DAMA or DCAM.
• Experience with Microsoft Fabric.
• Industry-recognised certifications in data management or governance (e.g., CDMP, DGSP).
• Architectural certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert or TOGAF.
• Knowledge of competing cloud data platforms (e.g., AWS, GCP).