Solution Architect – Financial Consolidation & Reporting

Solution Architect – Financial Consolidation & Reporting

Duration: Initial 6 Months

Location: Reading (Hybrid)

Contract Type: Inside IR35 Day Rate

We’re looking for an experienced Solution Architect to play a key role in our finance transformation programme, shaping the future of Primark’s Group consolidation, reporting, analytics, and period‐end close landscape.

If you’re immediately available, comfortable operating in complex finance environments, and experienced with IBM Cognos Controller, Planning Analytics, and close‐governance tooling, this is a high‐impact opportunity.

What You’ll Do

• Own end‐to‐end solution architecture for Group consolidation, reporting, and close
• Translate finance, audit, and compliance requirements into governed solution designs
• Define as‐is, target, and transition architectures across Oracle ERP, PA, Cognos Controller, and downstream reporting
• Produce solution blueprints, architecture diagrams, and interface definitions
• Ensure solutions meet performance, security, audit, and data‐integrity standards
• Govern SI/vendor designs and secure approvals through Architecture & Technology councils
• Support testing cycles, dress rehearsals, parallel close runs, and cutover readiness
• Identify risks across audit, controls, reconciliation, and close performance

Key Technology Landscape

• IBM Cognos Controller – Group consolidation
• IBM Planning Analytics (PA) – analytics & performance reporting
• Oracle Finance – system of record
• Close governance tools such as BlackLine, ARCS, or similar

What You’ll Bring

• 7+ years in engineering/design/architecture within large, complex organisations
• 5+ years as a Solution Architect on major finance or enterprise transformation programmes
• Strong hands‐on experience with IBM Cognos Controller and Planning Analytics
• Deep understanding of consolidation processes: eliminations, multi‐currency, statutory reporting, audit trails
• Experience with period‐end close orchestration, controls, and compliance tooling
• Strong knowledge of Oracle Finance, data flows, reconciliation, and integration patterns
• Excellent communication, documentation, and stakeholder‐management skills
• Ability to operate in high‐pressure, period‐end‐driven environments