Are you passionate about data strategy and ready to shape the future of enterprise data architecture at a world-class institution?
Join The Open University as a Lead Data Architect and play a pivotal role in enabling data-driven decision-making through innovative, scalable, and enterprise-wide data solutions.
About the Role
The effective use of data is paramount in achieving The Open University's strategic goals. Reporting to the Director of Data Technology as part of Digital Services, the Lead Data Architect plays a pivotal role in ensuring that our solutions and programs are purpose-fit and aligned with the broader University vision. This senior architecture position collaborates across teams to ensure consistency in data architecture, aligning it with our business strategy. In a large and complex environment, this role fosters cross-team collaboration and promotes a cohesive data ecosystem that supports the University's objectives.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and execute a comprehensive data architecture strategy aligned with OU's long-term business objectives and technology roadmap.
* Own the design and implementation of enterprise-wide data architectures, including data models, enterprise data catalogue and all relevant data architecture artefacts.
* Provide thought leadership and guidance on emerging trends and advancements in data architecture and data design.
* Establish and own data standards, guidelines, and best practices for data architecture and data modelling.
* Lead and manage a team of enterprise data architects, senior data architects and data analysts, providing mentorship, guidance and technical expertise.
* Evaluate and recommend new technologies, tools, and frameworks to enhance data architecture capabilities, scalability and performance.
* Work closely with business stakeholders to align data architecture initiatives with business goals, enabling effective data-driven decision making.
* Drive innovation and continuous improvement in data architecture practices, leveraging emerging technologies and industry best practices.
* Participate in the Design and Architecture Community of Practice, offering insight and leadership on data design activities and conducting research on emerging data technologies and techniques in support of Digital Services goals and commitments.
About You
* In-depth experience in conceptual and logical data modelling applied to both relational and dimensional formats covering operational and analytical applications.
* Extensive experience in leading the design and implementation of complex data architectures, including data models, data integration, and data management systems.
* Knowledge of master data management, metadata management and integration best practices and techniques.
* Ability to think strategically and align data architecture initiatives with overall business goals and objectives.
* Strong knowledge of various database technologies, including both SQL and NoSQL databases, and their appropriate use cases.
* Strong leadership skills with the ability to lead and manage a team of data architects and data engineers, providing mentorship and guidance.
* Ability to identify and solve complex data-related problems, troubleshoot issues, and optimize data architectures for performance and scalability.
* Foundation in system development, understanding of end-to-end software development lifecycle and project management approaches. Must understand what advice to give and how to influence developments towards desirable outcomes.
* Knowledge and experience in creating and applying standards and best practices in IT design and delivery regarding the experience of the software, tools and development methods including large-scale web applications and Agile development techniques.
* Effective communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders and collaborate across teams.
* A high degree of self-motivation, being comfortable working both as part of a team and alone.
* Ability to conceive and portray the overall data landscape; map the systems and interfaces used to manage data.
* Proven ability to work effectively within the Architecture function in a large and complex environment with an interest in the appropriate use of technology and approaches to solve business problems.
* Ideally, an experienced Data Architect with TOGAF certification.
* Knowledge of the Higher Education data domain would be an advantage.
Why Join The Open University?
At The Open University, we are pioneers in accessible education and digital innovation. This is your chance to lead the evolution of enterprise data architecture and make a meaningful impact on how data supports students, staff, and strategic decision-making.
Our benefits include:
* 33 days annual leave, on top of bank holidays and a three-day Christmas closure period.
* Access to a leading pension scheme for UK higher education with generous employer contributions.
* Staff Fee Waivers for OU study, meaning you could earn a degree for free.
* Hybrid working, with limited requirement to attend the office in-person, with agile working and family friendly policies.
* Discounts, wellbeing support, and development opportunities.
Ready to make an impact?
Apply now and help shape the future of data architecture at one of the UK’s most respected and innovative institutions.
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