Data Architect

NPAworldwide
Manchester
1 day ago
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Experience modernising enterprise data platforms


Data governance, ethics & compliance


Our client is a highly respected specialist technical consultancy working at the heart of the UK Defence and National Security community. They design and deliver secure, mission‑critical data and digital solutions that directly support UK Government operations.


Due to sustained programme growth, they are now seeking an experienced Data Architect to join their high‑performing Defence practice.


The Opportunity

This is a senior, hands‑on architecture role supporting classified, high‑impact programmes where your work directly contributes to national security outcomes.


You will own data architecture strategy, standards and governance across complex environments, shaping future‑proof data platforms that enable AI, analytics, automation and advanced decision intelligence.


Regular travel to London will be required.


What You’ll Be Doing

  • Acting as the Data Architecture SME across multiple Defence programmes
  • Defining and owning enterprise data architecture strategies and standards
  • Assessing existing platforms and leading modernisation roadmaps
  • Designing scalable, secure data models and integration architectures
  • Partnering with engineering, analytics and stakeholders to deliver compliant, high‑performance data solutions
  • Driving data governance, ethics and interoperability standards
  • Guiding adoption of emerging technologies including AI/ML‑ready data platforms
  • Producing and maintaining architecture artefacts and documentation

What We’re Looking For

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


Essential Experience

  • Proven experience as a Data Architect in complex environments
  • Strong knowledge of relational, NoSQL and cloud data architectures
  • Experience modernising enterprise data platforms
  • Awareness and evidence of:

    • Data standards & interoperability
    • Data governance, ethics & compliance
    • Secure data sharing across security domains
    • Data analytics & visualisation


  • Experience with Azure, AWS or GCP, modern data tooling, modelling and integration patterns
  • Scripting and automation capability

Security Clearance

To be eligible you must:



  • Hold British citizenship
  • Have lived in the UK continuously for the past 5 years
  • Be able to obtain high‑level UK security clearance

What’s On Offer

  • 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

Why Apply?

This is a rare opportunity to work on classified, nationally significant programmes where your architectural decisions will directly influence UK Defence capability and future digital strategy.


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