Service Architect - HR, Finance & Payroll
Location: Remote-first (occasional UK-wide travel)
Type: Permanent
Clearance: Must be eligible for Security Clearance (SC Level)
The Opportunity
We are seeking a Service Architect to lead the design and delivery of integrated back-office services across HR, Finance, and Payroll for a high-profile public sector transformation programme.
You will play a central role in shaping the future operating model and service architecture for a multi-phase service transition project, ensuring it is user-centric, scalable, and aligned with the latest digital service standards.
This is a rare opportunity to work at the heart of a strategic programme that is reshaping critical support services across a complex multi-provider landscape.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the creation of the end-to-end service blueprint and high-level operating model across HR, Payroll, and Finance functions
* Collaborate with functional leads, UX designers, and operational SMEs to define a seamless, joined-up service experience
* Facilitate workshops with client and third-party stakeholders to integrate service components across a multi-party delivery model
* Ensure that all service designs follow Government Digital Service (GDS) methodology and embed WCAG 2.2 accessibility standards
* Oversee the quality and assurance of all detailed service designs, ensuring alignment to strategic goals and technical platform capabilities
* Present iterative service design updates at cross-functional governance forums and engage with end-user feedback
* Contribute to the creation of Standard Operating Procedures, training materials, and testing strategies to support implementation
* Provide leadership and mentoring to a small team of junior service designers and architects
* Support cutover readiness and early-life support during phased service transition and live operations
Essential Experience & Skills
* Proven experience (5-8 years) in service design or architecture for back-office functions (HR, Payroll, Finance) within shared services or transformation environments
* Strong background in enterprise-wide operating model design, integrating people, process, technology, and data
* Hands-on experience with multi-phase service transitions, including interim operating states and live service cutovers
* Skilled in UX-led service design, accessibility compliance (WCAG 2.2), and leveraging GDS service design principles
* Strong stakeholder management and facilitation skills, able to build consensus in complex, client-facing delivery environments
* Familiarity with ERP service integration and operating within a multi-vendor ecosystem
* Experience supporting or presenting to Design Authority or similar governance forums
* Comfortable working in remote-first teams and travelling across the UK when required
Desirable Experience
* Previous experience delivering services alongside Oracle Fusion or other enterprise ERP platforms
* Experience supporting the transfer of services between providers within regulated environments
* Exposure to AI, automation, or data insight components in service design is a plus
Please note - this role requires eligibility for, or active SC clearance.
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