Lead Architect

Lead Architect
Sanderson Government & Defence

Location: Liverpool (Hybrid - initial onsite requirement, then primarily remote with occasional client meetings)
Duration: 6-month contract
Rate: £600-£650
Clearance: Active SC Required

About the Opportunity
Sanderson Government & Defence is partnering with a leading consultancy to recruit a Lead Architect for a high-profile Managed Services account within the retail sector. This client is undergoing a significant period of digital transformation, placing technology and innovation at the heart of their business strategy.

This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned architect to take ownership of a complex technology landscape, driving architectural governance and shaping future-state solutions within a dynamic and evolving environment.

The Role
As the Lead Architect, you will be accountable for the end-to-end architecture across the account, ensuring technical integrity, alignment with strategic objectives, and delivery excellence. You will act as the primary technical authority and a trusted advisor to key stakeholders, both internally and client-side.

You will also lead and mentor a team of Domain Architects and Engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and best practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and govern the end-to-end architecture within a Managed Services environment
• Ensure architectural standards, governance, and delivery quality are consistently met
• Define and deliver technology roadmaps and future-state architectures
• Build and maintain strong client relationships as a trusted advisor
• Provide technical leadership and direction across multidisciplinary teams
• Manage stakeholder engagement across business and technical functions
• Oversee change governance across the account

Key Skills & Experience

• Demonstrable experience operating as a Lead Architect in large-scale Managed Services accounts
• Strong background in enterprise architecture and complex IT landscapes
• Solid understanding of commercial models and contractual frameworks
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
• Proven ability to lead and inspire technical teams
• Experience supporting digital transformation initiatives

Security Requirements
Due to the nature of the work, candidates have to have active SC Clearance, which typically requires:

• Continuous UK residency for the last 5 years
• Successful completion of background checks (identity, employment, and criminal record)

Reasonable Adjustments:

Respect and equality are core values to us. We are proud of the diverse and inclusive community we have built, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. Our success is driven by our people, united by the spirit of partnership to deliver the best resourcing solutions for our clients.

If you need any help or adjustments during the recruitment process for any reason, please let us know when you apply or talk to the recruiters directly so we can support you.