Lead Enterprise Architect

OverviewLead Enterprise Architect — Defence Digital, Ministry of Defence. 37 hours per week. This role supports the Enterprise Architecture capability within the Digital Business Partnering team, providing engagement and strategic direction to major digital transformation programmes at senior management level.

Job descriptionJoin Defence Digital as a Lead Enterprise Architect to shape the future of our digital transformation initiatives. The post requires competence across all architecture layers, guidance on Architecture Practice establishment, repository management and strategic business architecture development. You will champion digital, data and cyber policy standards, identify opportunities for policy enhancement and reference architecture development.

Responsibilities

Make and guide architectural design decisions using governance and assurance frameworks

Support wider organisational objectives and influence emerging cross-organisational issues

Lead communication of complex architecture topics with technical and non-technical senior stakeholders

Advocate across teams and organisational boundaries

Work collaboratively and actively network with stakeholders

For more information on the Enterprise Architect profession please see the Government Digital and Data Framework.

Person specificationTo be successful in the role you should have the following:

Extensive Enterprise Architecture Leadership:

Demonstrable success in leading enterprise architecture in complex, large-scale environments, with expertise in frameworks like TOGAF and the ability to define As-Is and To-Be architectures, strategies, and road maps.

Deep Technical Acumen:

Practical experience in modern application and software technologies, including micro-services, orchestration, development pipelines, and API/integration technologies.

Strategic Architectural Vision:

Ability to shape and deliver long-term architectural strategies aligned with organisational objectives, with experience in strategic digital backbone initiatives.

Influential Leadership and Collaboration:

Proven track record of leading and mentoring technical teams, with strong skills in influencing and collaborating with diverse multidisciplinary teams and senior stakeholders.

Advanced Modelling and Communication:

Proficient in architectural modelling tools and languages (e.g., ArchiMate); strong written and verbal communication to articulate complex concepts clearly.

ApplicationWhen submitting your CV, highlight your career history and experience relevant to this role. Include a personal statement (max. 1250 words) demonstrating the Essential Criteria listed below.

Essential Criteria

Proven experience in enterprise architecture across all architectural layers

Ability to influence and shape technology architecture and design

Strong stakeholder management and partnership development skills

Experience with architectural governance, assurance and risk management

Excellent communication skills for engaging with senior technical and non-technical audiences

Benefits

Salary: £59,690 per year plus Civil Service pension contribution

Flexible working options

Inclusive and diverse culture

25 days annual leave rising to 30 days after 5 years, plus public holidays and special leave for volunteering

Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support

Travel-friendly site facilities and optional onsite amenities

Additional benefits and government schemes as applicable

Other information

This post does not offer relocation expenses and Visa sponsorship is not available for this role

Security checks apply; successful candidates must meet the security requirements

Application details: includes specific guidance on CV/template and personal statement; follow Civil Service Jobs process

Location: Bristol, England, United Kingdom. This is a full-time position with consideration for office and potential flexible working in line with business ..... full job details .....