Enterprise Data Architect

Reference: 4840662Job ID: 5422056Posted: 2026-10-27Closing date: 2027-01-25Location: Cardiff, WalesSalary: Up to 67,500 DOE (+ exceptional benefits) (per annum)Job type: PermanentWorking pattern: Full timeIndustry: Education & Training / Data & Advanced AnalyticsCompany: HaysConsultant: Adam SinclairHays office: London-City — 5th Floor, 107 Cheapside,Phone: 0333 010 6203Email: adam.sinclair@hays.comEnterprise Data ArchitectLocation: Cardiff / Hybrid
Salary: 61,759 - 67,468
Contract: Permanent, Full TimeThe opportunityCardiff University is looking for an experienced Enterprise Data Architect to establish and lead its data architecture capability and help shape the future of data across the University.This is a senior and influential role within University IT, with responsibility for defining the University's enterprise data architecture and leading the design of a Microsoft Fabric-based common data platform.You'll work across technology, data and the wider University to establish clear architecture principles, standards and models, ensuring data is effectively governed, integrated and used to support reporting, analytics and strategic decision-making.The common data platform forms part of a significant digital transformation programme, making this an excellent opportunity to shape a modern enterprise data environment from the ground up.Key responsibilities - Lead the development of the University's enterprise data architecture capability.Design and provide architectural oversight for the Microsoft Fabric common data platform.Develop enterprise data models, architecture principles, standards, data dictionaries and reference architectures.Provide expertise across data modelling, metadata, data governance, data quality, lineage and integration.Establish logical and conceptual data models across complex enterprise environments.Ensure data architecture aligns with wider enterprise architecture, business requirements and digital strategy.Review solution and service designs to ensure data architecture standards and design patterns are followed.Work with architects, analysts, technical teams and senior stakeholders to deliver effective data solutions.Assess emerging data technologies and recommend opportunities for innovation and improvement.Champion the effective management and use of data as a strategic organisational asset.What we're looking for -You'll be an experienced Data Architect or Enterprise Data Architect with a strong technical background and experience working across complex organisations.Ideally, you'll bring:Significant experience in enterprise data architecture and data modelling.Strong knowledge of relational database technologies and data management.Experience developing conceptual and logical data models.Knowledge of OLTP and OLAP architectures.Experience with Master Data Management (MDM).Strong understanding of metadata, data lineage, data quality, data dictionaries and data governance.Experience defining and implementing data architecture principles, standards and frameworks.Strong stakeholder management skills, including the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences.Experience influencing architecture and technology decisions across a complex organisation.The ability to balance strategic architecture with pragmatic delivery.Desirable experience - Experience or knowledge of the following would be beneficial:Microsoft FabricMicrosoft PurviewPower BIMicrosoft SQLOracleSAP BusinessObjectsTOGAF or other architecture frameworksDAMA-DMBOK / data management frameworksLarge-scale digital transformation programmesHigher Education or similarly complex organisational environmentsProfessional qualifications in areas such as TOGAF, DAMA-DMBOK or ITIL would also be advantageous.Why join?This is an opportunity to take a leading role in establishing data architecture across Cardiff University and shape the design of a modern enterprise data platform.You'll have significant influence over how data is structured, governed and used across the organisation, while contributing to a wider programme of digital transformation.Salary: 61,759 - 67,468 per annum, Grade 8. If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. #4840662 - Adam Sinclair