Head of Architecture

Overview

Howdens Joinery are looking for an inspiring technology leader to shape the future of our enterprise applications. As Head of Architecture, you’ll set the strategic direction for business systems spanning sales, service, supply chain, and back-end functions — driving innovation, efficiency, and value across the organisation.This is a permanent full time opportunity. Based from one of our corporate sites including Raunds, Northamptonshire, Brackmills Business Park, Northampton, Howden, Yorkshire or Croxley Park, Watford you will be expected to travel and work onsite 4 days per week.Responsibilities

Define and own our enterprise architecture vision and roadmapsLead, mentor, and grow a high-performing architecture team based across multiple sitesPartner with senior leaders to align technology with business prioritiesGovern architectural standards and champion modern IT practicesIntroduce innovative, scalable, and secure solutions that fuel digital transformationDrive a culture of architectural excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement across the technology organisationEnsure adherence to modern IT standards and architectural frameworks (e.g., TOGAF, SAFe, ITIL, ArchiMate, cloud reference architectures)What We Need From You

Significant experience in enterprise architecture leadership, ideally within a vertically integrated organisation covering multiple business functionsProven track record in defining and delivering architecture strategies for enterprise applications in complex environmentsDeep understanding of modern SaaS, PaaS, and cloud-native application architectures, including multi-cloud and hybrid modelsStrong knowledge of platform-based architectures and API-first integration approachesExperience designing and governing architectures for ERP, CRM, supply chain, commerce, and digital service platforms in an integrated ecosystemExpertise in cloud architecture and associated security, compliance, and cost-optimisation strategies (AWS, Azure, GCP)Strong familiarity with modern delivery practices, including DevOps, CI/CD pipelines, containerisation, and microservicesExperience in running architecture governance boards and assurance processes to enforce standards and drive alignmentDegree in IT, Computer Science, or related discipline; professional architecture certifications (TOGAF, SAFe Architect, AWS/Azure/GCP Architecture) highly desirableWhat We Can Offer You

Competitive salary and company bonusCar Allowance or Company CarExcellent pension scheme (company contribution of up to 12%)Private Healthcare for you and your family25 days holiday + bank holidays with the option to buy additional daysStaff DiscountEmployee Assistance ProgrammeExceptional Reward and Recognition eventsAbout Howdens

FTSE100 company and the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier Howdens Joinery provides thousands of products across kitchens, joinery, and hardware. We have over 900 depots throughout the UK and Europe – making us the first choice for more than 460,000 loyal trade professionals. Last year our sales reached circa 2.3bn, and we have an ambitious growth agenda.There is a strong entrepreneurial ethos and the opportunity to develop within a fast-paced and commercial environment. If you want to be part of a rewarding organisation recognised for excellence in the workplace in the Best Big Companies to Work For, please apply now.Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email recruitmentteam@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help ..... full job details .....