Senior Solution Architect; Operational Technology

Senior Solution Architect (Operational Technology)

81997 - Senior Solution Architect (Operational Technology)

This Senior Solution Architect (Operational Technology) position will report to the Architecture Manager and will work within the Strategy Regulation and Support Services directorate based in our Ipswich office. You will be a permanent employee.

You will attract a salary of up to £95,000 - Depending on skills, qualifications and experience and a bonus of 7.5%. This role can also offer blended working after probationary period (6 months) - 3 days in the office and 2 remote/

We also provide the following additional benefits

Reservist Leave – Additional 18 days full pay and 22 unpaid

Personal Pension Plan – Personal contribution rates of 4% or 5% (UK Power Networks will make a corresponding contribution of 8% or 10%)

Tenancy Loan Deposit Scheme, Season Ticket Loan

Tax efficient benefits:
Cycle to Work, Home & Tech, and Green Car Leasing Schemes

Occupational Health support

Switched On – scheme providing discount on hundreds of retailers' products

Discounted gym membership

Employee Assistance Programme

UK Power Networks is dedicated to the advancement of its operational technology (OT) systems to lead business transformation, operational efficiency, and modernisation. The Senior Solution Architect (Operational Technology) plays an important role in this journey, ensuring that technology investments translate into tangible improvements in operational performance, customer experience, and organisational resilience.

You will manage a comprehensive evaluation of the core Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) estate, with a focus on defining and communicating both the current and target state architectures. You will also lead initiatives to modernise critical capabilities, including agentic orchestration and the integration of AI-enabled dispatch and fault prediction, positioning UK Power Networks at the forefront of technological innovation within the energy sector.

An important aspect of this position is the development and management of the platform architecture lifecycle. This includes establishing reference models, technical standards, design patterns, and reusable frameworks that underpin the best operational systems. You will ensure that business capabilities are thoroughly documented and that design patterns are consistently applied, supporting the organisation's commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

You will provide expert guidance on the adoption and deployment of technology across a diverse range of operational scenarios and departments. By promoting agreement on core solutions and minimising unnecessary customisation, you will help maximise the value of technology investments. In situations where teams have differing requirements you will help design solutions that balance these needs while maintaining coherence with the organisation's strategic direction.

This may involve mediating between functional specialists, vendors, and company partners to achieve agreement and ensure the delivery of technical solutions.

Furthermore, you will function as a trusted advisor to business, offering recommendations that enhance the value derived from technology assets. Your role will require collaboration with business counterparts, project managers, and system owners to ensure that technical solutions are aligned with organisational goals and industry best practices. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of UK Power Networks' operational technology landscape.

Through leadership, technical expertise, and a commitment to innovation, the architect will support the organisation's mission to deliver safe, dependable, and sustainable electricity supply while enabling the transition to a low‑carbon future.

Direct reports: none.

Budget: none directly, influencing £20M in solutions and projects.

Portfolio:
Operational Technology.

Influence technology strategy by collaborating with business teams and leadership, to understand our needs and ensure agreement on technical solutions.

Engage with business counterparts…