Head of Systems & Architecture
A global leader in complex operations and asset management is looking for a Head of Systems & Architecture to shape and govern its enterprise-wide technology landscape. This is a high-impact, business-facing role that sits at the heart of their digital and operational transformation.
You'll define the architectural vision, ensure end-to-end design integrity, and lead the evolution of a diverse, mission-critical systems environment that supports safety, operational excellence, and commercial performance.
As Head of Systems & Architecture, you will:
- Own the organisation's technology and architecture strategy, covering applications, data, integration, infrastructure, and cloud.
- Translate business objectives into coherent roadmaps, capability models, and investment priorities.
- Govern and maintain architectural integrity across multiple programmes, ensuring solutions are scalable, secure, and aligned to future-state architecture.
- Lead architecture review boards and provide authoritative guidance on design decisions.
- Modernise legacy platforms and reduce technical debt while supporting new, digital-first initiatives.
- Work closely with business stakeholders to explain why systems and processes operate as they do — not just how.
- Develop and mentor a small architecture and systems team, fostering good practice and design discipline.
- Oversee operational realities such as support models, lifecycle management, and service resilience.
Requirements
We're looking for a business-focused architect. You'll be a Solution Architect or Enterprise Architect with:
- Deep experience working in complex, asset-heavy, safety-critical environments
- (e.g., oil & gas, utilities, national infrastructure, transport, manufacturing, maritime).
- The ability to articulate architectural decisions clearly — with strong business rationale, not just technical reasoning.
- Proven experience designing and governing end-to-end solutions across multiple domains.
- Strong understanding of business processes, capabilities, and operational constraints.
- A practical, delivery-minded approach — someone who has done architecture, not just documented it.
- Broad understanding of modern and legacy technologies, integration patterns, cloud platforms, and system support models.
- Experience guiding or supporting technical teams, vendors, and delivery partners.
- Familiarity with architectural frameworks (TOGAF, Zachman) is helpful, but what matters is practical experience, not certifications.
A background in application management earlier in your career is a plus, as it gives you a strong sense of supportability and system behaviour in real-world operations.
Who This Role Suits
- A seasoned Solution Architect ready to step into broader ownership.
- A junior/early Enterprise Architect looking for more autonomy and influence.
- Someone who prefers pragmatic design over theory and frameworks.
- Someone who enjoys partnering with business leaders and working close to operations.
You'll play a critical role in modernising the technology estate, improving operational efficiency, and enabling future digital capabilities across a global organisation responsible for large-scale, mission-critical assets.
Your work will directly influence safety, commercial performance, and innovation.