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WMCA is laser-focused on improving the West Midlands, bringing economic growth, jobs, homes, and better journeys to the region.

Job Overview

Join WMCA at a pivotal moment of digital transformation. As a Solutions Architect in our Digital and Data team, you’ll help shape the future digital state of the organisation - leading the move from legacy systems to modern platforms.

You’ll be central to designing robust, compliant solutions aligned with enterprise standards, acting as a gatekeeper for technical design decisions.

This is a unique opportunity to influence a major systems revamp and ensure our technology meets the evolving needs of customers and stakeholders across the region.

Responsibilities

• Work flexibly and with integrity to support the needs of WMCA and the Digital and Data team.
• Develop, deliver, and support solutions architecture across the organisation.
• Understand and document business needs, translating them into technical solutions.
• Collaborate with colleagues and users to define requirements and acceptance criteria.
• Create and review technical designs, offering guidance for current and future systems.
• Communicate complex IT architecture in clear business terms to stakeholders.
• Advise staff and users on digital tools and ensure compliance with technical standards.
• Document key team processes and promote a culture of continuous improvement.
• Contribute to and enforce technical standards across user groups.
• Build partnerships with internal teams and external organisations to support strategic goals.
• Present reports and updates to project, architectural, and senior management boards.
• Identify and communicate opportunities, risks, and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Implement and maintain architecture governance frameworks.

Requirements

• A good understanding of Service Orientated Architecture with significant practical experience of service orientated design.
• Hold or work towards a qualification that underpin Solution Architecture (e.g. TOGAF, BCS Foundation Certificate in Architecture Concepts and Domains)
• Degree Level qualification or equivalent experience in an IT discipline.
• Demonstrable evidence of producing high quality technical documentation.
• Experience of working in a strategic context, supporting planning.
• In depth understanding of IT concepts, both infrastructure and software related.
• A working knowledge of some of the following areas; Information and Data Management, System Design, Security (firewalls, VPN, intrusion detection and prevention systems), Application Management, Networking and Microsoft Solutions, Infrastructure, cloud technologies.
• Strong knowledge of network, server, storage, and virtualisation technologies.
• Understanding of the relevant legislative framework and professional standards both within the ICT industry and within a public sector authority.
• Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to build strong working relationships with end users in exceeding their expectations with excellent customer service, communication and presentation skills.

Location and Benefits

The location for this role is 16 Summer Lane, Birmingham, B19 3SD, with at least one day per week spent in the office.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Local Government Pension Scheme (one of the most generous pension schemes in the UK).
• 28 days paid annual leave (with an option to purchase more)
• Ethical saving options and healthcare plans.
• Discounted gym membership, will writing and mortgage advice.
• An option to buy a bicycle, including e-bikes and adapted pedal cycles, at a discounted rate.
• 3 days of paid leave each year to volunteer.
• Interest free financing through SmartTech to buy the latest technology
• Discounted shopping with over 2,000 big-name retailers, and more.

Diversity and Inclusion

WMCA holds diversity accreditations, such as the RACE Code Quality Mark, Armed Forces Covenant (Gold status) and has been recognised as one of the Inclusive Top 50 Employers and The Times Top 50 Employers for Women. We’re a Disability Confident Employer with ‘Leader’ status, committed to interviewing applicants with disabilities who meet all the essential role criteria.

We recognise that certain groups, such as women and people of colour, may be less likely to apply for roles if they feel they do not meet all the requirements. However, we encourage individuals who are passionate about the role and want to make a difference to still apply. We value potential and encourage applicants to highlight their skills, including transferable ones, even if they don't fit the traditional "perfect candidate" mould.

We gladly consider part-time, flexible, and job share arrangements, so please don't let these factors deter you from applying

Right to Work in the UK

Proof of Right to Work in the UK will be required for all applicants in accordance with UK Home Office requirements, before any employment offer can be confirmed.