Solutions Architect
Description:
Role
The role performs the leadership, facilitation, analysis and design tasks required to develop the solution architecture for our clients projects. Focuses across more than one project at a time, while providing solution architecture on individual solutions. Create high level solution models and solution architectures, , including solution patterns/blueprints, to guide solution decisions for the enterprise for assigned projects aligned to business requirements. Be the design authority on projects ensuring adherence to architecture and design standards and the target Architecture
Skills / Experience
Exposure to multiple, diverse technologies and processing environments
Ability to understand the long-term ("big picture") and short-term perspectives of situations
Ability to translate business needs into solution architecture requirements
Ability to estimate the financial impact of Enterprise Solution Architecture and individual solution architecture alternatives
Ability to define multiple solution options to business problems
Ability to quickly comprehend the functions and capabilities of new technologies
Knowledge of all aspects of enterprise architecture
Basic knowledge of business process re-engineering principles and processes
Basic knowledge of information principles and policies
Basic knowledge of financial models and budgeting
Strong understanding of network and data center architecture, as well as application development methodologies
Ability to quickly comprehend the functions and capabilities of new technologies
Understanding of SOA, object-oriented analysis and design, or client/server systems
Excellent interpersonal skills in areas such as teamwork, facilitation and negotiation
Strong leadership skills
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Excellent planning and organisational skills
Excellent analytical and technical skills
Key Accountabilities
Responsible for prioritising and managing own workload, and others as required
Contributes to the Target Architecture and definition and maintenance of standards (the Technical Reference Model) by supporting Enterprise Architecture
Supports the development of the project planning including ensuring the phases are appropriate. For example, breaking out the solution into different work packages etc.
Supports the budget development process for a solution to maximise the business case
Delivers high-level solution models and solution architectures in line with business requirements, organisation and industry standards
Ensures compliance of all high-level solution models and solution architectures to the Target Architecture, roadmaps, architecture principles and standards
Ensures that their solution architectures maintain integrity within the context of the relevant programme architecture
Assesses the impact of business change requests on the existing architecture and support the prioritisation of these changes
Provides direction and guidance on projects ensuring adherence to Architecture and Design standards and the Target Architecture
Works with the project stakeholders to understand the business requirements so that recommended solution options provide the best fit against requirements and budget
Supports the Business Analyst to determine high-level functional requirements, maximising the use of standard or out-of-the-box features and capability
Supports the Business Analysts to determine high level non-functional requirements
Creates solution options and solution architectures, ensuring any deviations to the standards are handled through the Architecture Governance process
Be accountable for the viability of proposed solutions and provides direction, advice and guidance on the appropriate approach to the solution throughout the project
Performs the design authority role on projects ensuring that the detailed designs and solutions delivered align to the solution architecture, managing and resolving any design issues as they arise
Uses commercial awareness to ensure that all investments made maximise the value of our IT investment
Maintains an up-to-date understanding of the main technology base, and a general understanding of the other technology bases which together form the overall technical direction
Keeps abreast of developments from strategic partners to ensure that the architectures are kept in line with standards and only deviate for commercial benefit
Promotes and encourages enterprise and innovation throughout the team, to look for new answers and delivery of a fresh approach
Identifies the commercial impacts of decisions involving architecture and engage the appropriate people in coming to a sound commercial outcome
Works with external suppliers to ensure that the appropriate technology direction is set with respect to systems, data and technical infrastructure
Works and effectively communicate with a wide range of stakeholders in developing a solution that meets the needs of the business
Sets up and maintains strong relationships with stakeholders by effectively managing expectations and inspiring confidence in delivery
Develops, coaches, motivates, energises and inspires fellow team members
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Experience
Minimum of five years/relevant or equivalent of hands-on design and implementation experience in IT, with knowledge in a minimum of two of the following technical disciplines:
Application development
Network design
Middleware
Servers and storage
Database management
Operations
Knowledge of key aspects of the business
Understanding of the enterprise's political climate and how to respond to the political challenges
ersg are an equal opportunities employer; we are committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all job applicants. We do not discriminate against applicants on the basis of age, sex, race, disability, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or religious background; all decisions are based on merit.
