Lead Solutions Architect (Salesforce) - Warwick Hybrid - Inside IR35

Lead Solutions Architect - Grid Connections Transformation (Salesforce, CRM, Governance)

Location
Hybrid, Warwick

1. Approx. 2 days per week on site in Warwick
2. Occasional travel to Wokingham for team collaboration days

Duration: 12 Months Rolling Contract

Must have strong knowledge in Salesforce

THIS PROJECT IS INSIDE IR35

I am looking for a Lead Solutions Architect to work on a major grid connections transformation programme for a large UK infrastructure organisation.

The programme is redesigning how new generation and large customers connect to the electricity network, with a strong focus on simplification, scalability and supporting the transition to clean energy.

This is a strategic and delivery focused role.

You will own the target end state solution architecture for the future connections model, define and lead architecture governance, and work closely with delivery teams and enterprise architecture to ensure designs are robust, compliant and implementable.

The role suits a Lead Solutions Architect who enjoys governance, process leadership, and solution design oversight, and who is confident engaging senior stakeholders in a fast moving environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the solution architecture for the target end state of the grid connections transformation programme
• Define and drive architecture governance, including principles, patterns, non functional requirements and design assurance
• Act as the bridge between programme delivery, external partners and internal enterprise architecture teams
• Run and contribute to design and discovery workshops, shaping the art of the possible and assessing solution options
• Guide the strategic use of Salesforce as a core CRM platform (high level, not hands on configuration)
• Work with solution architects, data architects and subject matter experts to align designs across platforms and domains
• Provide leadership and mentoring to architects and technical leads, without direct line management responsibility
• Ensure solutions are aligned with enterprise strategy, regulatory obligations and the long term technology roadmap

Essential experience

• Strong background as a Lead Solutions Architect on complex, multi team programmes
• Proven track record of architecture governance, standards and assurance
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, including senior business and IT stakeholders
• Experience working alongside enterprise architecture, strategy and roadmapping functions
• High level understanding of Salesforce as a CRM platform and how it fits into a wider enterprise landscape
• Experience guiding or mentoring other architects or technical leads

Desirable

• Experience in CNI, energy, utilities, infrastructure or other regulated environments
• Previous work on queue management, workflow, case management or complex customer application journeys
• Experience with enterprise architecture tooling, for example LeanIX or similar EA repositories
• Background in large scale system integration programmes involving external consultancies or system integrators

Working model and start

• Hybrid working with regular on site collaboration in Warwick and some time in Wokingham
• Early involvement in an upcoming discovery phase with a major consulting partner is preferred
• Target start date December 2025, with January 2026 considered for strong candidates

If you are a Lead Solutions Architect who enjoys owning target state architecture, governance and stakeholder alignment while staying close to delivery, and you have solid exposure to Salesforce in a complex environment, I would like to hear from you.