Solution Architect

Job Title: Solution Architect
Location: Luton, UK (Hybrid - 2-3 days per week on site)
Day Rate: £552.50 Inside IR35
Contract Duration: 6 months
Start Date: ASAP

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Solution Architect to lead the definition of complex end-to-end solutions within a major transformation programme. You will work with Enterprise Architects, technical architects, and functional consultants to shape and deliver solutions that align with strategic objectives, IT standards, and industry best practices.
This role provides exposure to cutting-edge cloud technologies and the opportunity to design frameworks leveraging AI/Gen AI to support business needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead solution ideation, design, and implementation activities.
• Review business context and requirements to define optimal solution options, including RFIs, RFPs, prototypes, and solution roadmaps.
• Communicate architecture to stakeholders and coordinate with domain architects to ensure adoption of IT standards.
• Champion structured approaches to business application solutions.
• Support development of departmental roadmaps and project portfolios.
• Ensure solutions meet business needs while adhering to architectural guidelines.
• Provide recommendations for upgrades, replacements, or decommissioning, considering usability, productivity, and total cost of ownership.
• Provide architectural oversight across IT portfolios and advise on security protection technologies.
• Design foundational frameworks to leverage AI/Gen AI technologies effectively (desirable).

Key Skills, Knowledge & Experience

• Proven experience delivering solution blueprints and design artefacts via Architecture Review Board and Technical Design Assurance processes.
• Strong track record in cloud-native solution architecture, preferably on AWS.
• Demonstrated leadership in solution design within large transformation programmes.
• AWS Certified Solution Architect (mandatory).
• TOGAF certification (preferred; to be obtained within 6-12 months if not already held).
• Aviation commercial domain knowledge (GDS, PSS systems) is desirable.

Person Specification

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Analytical and problem-solving mindset with high attention to detail.
• Collaborative leadership style with team-building and interpersonal skills.
• Comfortable working under indirect supervision and taking responsibility quickly.
• Flexible and adaptable in a dynamic environment.
• Technically creative and open-minded, comfortable learning new skills.