Lead Data Architect

Job description : We are recruiting on behalf of a specialist Defence and National Security consultancy delivering some of the UK Governments most sensitive and strategically important digital programmes. Their work supports intelligence operations, cyber defence, data-driven automation and national infrastructure protection.

With significant programme expansion underway, they are seeking a *Principal Data Architect* to take ownership of data architecture strategy and technical direction across multiple classified environments.

• The Role*This is a rare opportunity to sit at the core of national security delivery. You will shape enterprise-scale data ecosystems, define governance and interoperability frameworks, and influence adoption of AI / ML-ready platforms that enable faster, smarter and more secure operational decision making.

You will operate at senior stakeholder level and provide architectural leadership across long-term Defence programmes.

Regular London travel required.

• What Youll Own*Enterprise data architecture strategy and roadmaps

Governance, interoperability and compliance frameworks

Secure, scalable data models and integration architectures

Platform modernisation and cloud migration strategies

AI / ML and advanced analytics data enablement

Cross-domain secure data sharing patterns

Architecture standards, documentation and best practice

• What Were Looking For*Senior-level Data Architect experience within complex, secure or regulated environments

Strong enterprise architecture and data modelling background

Experience delivering modernisation or transformation programmes

Knowledge of :

Data governance, ethics and compliance

Interoperability and data standards

Analytics and visualisation platforms

Secure cross-domain data sharing

Experience across Azure, AWS or GCP ecosystems

Scripting / automation capability desirable

• Security Clearance Eligibility*British citizenship

UK residency for the last *5 years*

Eligible for high-level UK security clearance

• Whats On Offer*Premium salary & benefits

Hybrid working

Generous funded training & career coaching

Long-term secure Defence programmes

Highly collaborative, technically driven culture

• Why This Role?*You will architect platforms that protect national security, enable advanced intelligence capability and directly shape the future of UK Defence data strategy.

Qualifications : You will be an experienced Data Architect with a background in secure or highly regulated environments.

Why is This a Great Opportunity : Highly competitive salary (dependent on clearance & experience)

Hybrid & flexible working

Generous L&D budget, career coaching & funded training

Matched pension & healthcare

Supportive, collaborative culture with regular team socials