Lead Data Architect

Lead Data Architect (Contract)

Duration: 8 months

Outside IR35

Location: Worcester/Hybrid (Twice a month onsite)

Day Rate: £700-750/day

Role purpose

The Lead Data Architect will play a key advisory role during the initial discovery phase of a large-scale data remediation initiative. The role will shape the current-state assessment, define target-state architectural principles, and inform remediation and investment options. There is an expectation of architectural continuity into later delivery phases, subject to programme approval.

Key responsibilities (Discovery phase)

• Assess current-state data architecture, data flows, ownership, and constraints across priority domains
• Identify architectural root causes contributing to data quality, trust, and usability challenges
• Define a target-state data reference architecture to support remediation and insight enablement
• Inform remediation options, delivery complexity, dependencies, and sequencing
• Provide architectural input into cost, risk, and benefit assessments for the investment business case
• Contribute to the design of early proof-of-concept concepts (conceptual design only)

Experience and profile

• Senior-level data architect with experience in large, complex organisations
• Strong background in data platforms, integration, analytics, and data governance
• Comfortable operating in discovery-led environments with a high degree of ambiguity
• Able to communicate effectively with senior stakeholders and translate technical complexity into clear options and trade-offs

Continuity

The role is expected to provide architectural continuity into subsequent phases of the programme, subject to discovery outcomes and funding decisions.