Information Technology System Architect

IT Systems Architect – Based Manchester (Hybrid)

Our client is a leading specialist financial services provider currently building a technology hub in Manchester. They are seeking an experienced IT Systems Architect to provide technical leadership and architectural direction across key technology programmes.

The IT Systems Architect will hold end‑to‑end technical authority for one or more programmes or Agile Release Trains. Working closely with enterprise architecture, development leadership, and transformation teams, you will develop and maintain the Architectural Runway and guide delivery teams in implementing robust, secure, and scalable solutions.

You will champion modern architectural practices—particularly within a SAFe environment—while ensuring that solutions are aligned with organisational guardrails, standards, and strategic objectives.

• Define, refine, and communicate the Architectural Runway, Vision, and Enabler Epics
• Shape the programme roadmap and prepare architectural inputs
• Promote and embed Agile/SAFe mindset, values, and practices across teams
• Drive measurable technical delivery, removing impediments and improving velocity
• Collaborate with Engineers, Analysts, Project Managers, and technical leaders to ensure consistent architectural alignment
• Work with Enterprise and Technical Architects to maintain compliance with standards and methodologies
• Define requirements for application stability, performance, upgrades, and technical frameworks
• Oversee development quality, manage scope adjustments, and enforce technical guardrails

• Experience in enterprise workflow systems, distributed architecture, and communication architectures
• Strong understanding of SDLC, multi‑platform development, and architecture methodologies
• Strong grasp of coding principles, code quality processes, and modern engineering practices
• Expertise in Agile/SAFe, Waterfall, architecture, testing methodologies, and scaled delivery models
• Track record of technical delivery experience, including architectural responsibility
• Experience with architecture frameworks (e.g., TOGAF), methodologies, and modern technology stacks (Java, .NET, Python, cloud architectures, tiered architectures)
• Experience in regulated sectors such as insurance or financial services (advantageous)
• Familiarity with Agile tooling such as Jira, Confluence, and Lucid Spark

This role sits within a global business with a long‑standing history of delivering high‑value solutions across multiple regions. The organisation offers a broad portfolio of products and services and is recognised as a market leader within its field. You will be joining a sophisticated technology and transformation function with a strong commitment to innovation, stability, and scalable growth.

If you are an experienced Systems Architect seeking a senior role with significant influence, strategic visibility, and the ability to shape enterprise‑level architecture, please send your CV or expression of interest via Linked In or contact