Our client, a leading organisation in the Defence & Security sector, is currently seeking a Lead Enterprise Architect to join their team on a contract basis. This role involves working on high-profile programmes where your expertise in IT architecture and governance will be vital in driving strategic business initiatives. Key Responsibilities: Lead the development and governance of enterprise architecture across multiple programmes and domains Define and evolve architecture principles, standards, and frameworks aligned with business strategy and technology roadmaps Shape and lead the enterprise architecture strategy for the Line of Business (LoB), contributing to divisional and corporate planning Provide authoritative technical leadership across infrastructure, cloud, data, applications, and security domains Chair Product Design Reviews across the Engineering Unit and LoB, ensuring alignment with strategic goals Lead original research, capability development, and technology insertion to enhance architectural maturity Represent the organisation at senior customer boards, government forums, and industry conferences Mentor and coach architects across the organisation, fostering a high-performing architecture community Drive reuse, innovation, and best practice across programmes and engineering functions Job Requirements: Recognised expertise as a senior enterprise architect with a track record of delivering strategic, cross-domain architectures Ability to influence organisational strategy, technology direction, and external engagement at senior levels Deep understanding of enterprise architecture frameworks (e.g. TOGAF, MODAF, NAF) and their application in secure, complex environments Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills, with experience engaging at government and executive levels Proven ability to lead architectural governance and ensure secure-by-design principles are embedded across programmes Relevant experience in Defence aerospace programmes within the Ministry of Defence, with security by design (SbD) expertise Extensive experience leading enterprise architecture across large-scale, multi-domain programmes Advanced knowledge of architecture frameworks and modelling standards (e.g. TOGAF, ArchiMate, MODAF) Demonstrated ability to shape and implement enterprise-wide architecture strategies Strong understanding of cyber security principles, secure system design, and regulatory compliance Experience chairing design reviews and providing technical assurance across engineering units Ability to lead innovation and capability development across engineering and business functions Proven mentoring and coaching experience, supporting the growth of architectural capability Desirable Skills: Chartered Engineer or equivalent professional recognition Industry certifications (e.g. TOGAF, AWS/Azure Architect, CISSP, ArchiMate) Experience contributing to national or international architecture standards or professional bodies Published research or thought leadership in enterprise architecture or related fields Experience working transnationally and representing organisational interests in regulatory or strategic forums Familiarity with SFIA Level 7 competencies (e.g. Strategy & Architecture, Governance, Innovation) and DDaT Enterprise Architect role expectations If you are a highly skilled enterprise architect looking for your next contract opportunity in the Defence & Security sector, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to join our client's dynamic and innovative team