Senior Data Architect

Senior Data Architect

Start Date: ASAP
Contract: 3 Months Initially | Outside IR35
Day Rate: £700–£800 per day
Location: Remote | UK-Based Candidates Only

We're partnering with a technology-focused organisation to appoint an experienced Senior Data Architect on an initial 3-month contract, with the intention to extend.

This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially aware and technically experienced Data Architect to take ownership of a high-impact data transformation programme, modernising existing infrastructure, improving data accessibility and establishing the foundations for AI-driven innovation.

We're particularly interested in candidates with extensive experience in complex data environments, legacy platform modernisation and AI-ready architecture, who can combine strategic thinking with hands‑on technical delivery.

As Senior Data Architect, you'll take ownership of assessing and transforming the organisation's existing data landscape, designing scalable, future‑ready architecture that supports business growth and emerging AI capabilities.

Working directly with the CTO, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping technical strategy, identifying opportunities for improvement and translating architectural recommendations into a clear, actionable delivery roadmap.

This is a hands‑on, high‑impact role requiring someone who can navigate complex data environments, influence senior stakeholders and drive meaningful architectural change from initial assessment through to implementation.

You’ll play a key role in driving data transformation by:

• Reviewing existing data architecture, identifying gaps, inefficiencies and opportunities for modernisation.
• Designing scalable, future‑ready data solutions that integrate legacy systems and improve data accessibility.
• Developing an API‑first architecture to enable secure and efficient data consumption across multiple applications.
• Assessing AI readiness and exploring technologies including vector databases, embeddings and retrieval‑based solutions.
• Creating a clear technical roadmap, translating architectural recommendations into practical delivery milestones.
• Partnering closely with the CTO to influence technical strategy and key architectural decisions.
• Engaging with customers and senior stakeholders to understand requirements and communicate technical solutions.
• Leading architectural improvements from initial assessment through to implementation.
• Introducing innovative processes and AI‑enabled capabilities to support long‑term scalability and efficiency.

You will be an experienced Senior Data Architect with a strong technical background, a strategic mindset and the ability to influence senior stakeholders while delivering practical architectural solutions.

You will also have:

• Extensive experience in senior data architecture roles, ideally across multiple organisations or complex data environments.
• Proven expertise in assessing existing data estates and translating findings into actionable architectural strategies.
• Strong knowledge of AI‑ready data architecture, including vector databases, embeddings and retrieval‑based technologies.
• Experience modernising legacy data platforms, including consolidation, integration and restructuring.
• Excellent understanding of API‑first architecture and designing solutions for multiple data consumers.
• Experience managing the full architectural lifecycle, from initial assessment through to implementation.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, with confidence engaging directly with CTOs and customers.
• A pragmatic, adaptable approach with the ability to balance strategic planning and hands‑on delivery.
• Desirable experience within consultancy environments, greenfield data…