Head of Product Architecture - Group Product Architect

Head of Product Architecture / Group Product Architect
Duration: 6 months (initial)
IR35 Determination: Outside IR35
Location: Manchester (Hybrid, 2-3 days on-site, with potential travel to other sites)

*Full job description available upon request*

Our client is seeking an experienced Head of Product Architecture / Group Product Architect to provide technical leadership within the Group Product Tower, covering key functions such as HR, Finance, Payroll, Procurement, Workforce Management, and MS Power Apps across multiple sites.

This critical role involves owning the technical architecture, design governance, and supporting solution architects in a matrix structure, driving technology innovation and strategic efficiency across the group.

Key Responsibilities:
- Build strong relationships with stakeholders across the group to understand operational needs and challenges.
- Collaborate with technical product and platform teams to develop an architectural framework that drives system and process automation across the organisation.
- Establish design governance and develop agile delivery frameworks with product and delivery teams.
- Translate complex business challenges into technical solution requirements.
- Ensure product architecture aligns with enterprise strategies and roadmaps.
- Design innovative technology solutions to optimize operations and enhance efficiency.
- Lead the technical solution development process, including specification, standards, and deployment.
- Set up and manage a Solution Architecture Forum to foster innovation and alignment on governance.
- Rationalise and simplify a growing application landscape by developing an architectural vision.
- Guide Product Managers in building effective roadmaps.
- Provide governance and oversight for Solution Architects across individual projects.

Skills & Experience Required:
- Minimum 5 years' experience as Head of Architecture, Lead Architect in architectural discipline.
- Expertise with platforms such as:
o SAP SuccessFactors
o SAP ECC / S4 HANA Upgrade
o Dimensions (Workforce Management)
o ServiceNow (Workflow Automation, IT Asset Management)
o IDM Maximo (Enterprise Asset Management)
- Proven track record of managing technology architecture within large-scale transformations and IT change initiatives.
- Experience in designing and delivering technology strategies.
- Strong knowledge in process, data, information, and technology architecture.
- Architectural modelling, design, and roadmap development.
- Deep understanding of cloud computing trends and re-platforming.
- Extensive experience with infrastructure, applications, and business process automation.
- Excellent knowledge of Servers, Storage, Data Centres, Applications, and Middleware.
- Proven ability to articulate the interaction between business functions and IT components.
- Demonstrated success in leading and developing high-performing teams.
- Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills at senior levels.
- TOGAF certification or equivalent experience.
- Bachelors degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field.
- Experience working in a global organisation.