Lead Solution Architect

Lead Solution Architect Location: Luton - Hybrid – 2 to 3 days per week onsite Start Date: ASAP Contract Rate: £500–£545 per day inside IR35 Duration: 12 months initially Role Overview Our client is seeking an experienced Lead Solution Architect to drive end-to-end solution design across a strategic programme within the airline operations domain. This is a high-impact role where you will define the architecture vision, align multiple product teams, and ensure scalable, cohesive, and business-aligned solutions. You will operate at the intersection of architecture, delivery, and product, setting technical direction, establishing guardrails, and enabling teams to deliver effectively while maintaining architectural integrity. Key Responsibilities * Provide architecture leadership across a mission-level initiative, defining and owning the overall solution vision * Shape end-to-end solutions spanning multiple teams, platforms, and technology domains * Establish architecture guardrails, principles, reusable patterns, and reference designs * Collaborate closely with Product, Engineering, and Delivery leads to ensure aligned execution * Ensure solutions align with enterprise strategy, standards, and long-term goals * Identify and mitigate cross-team dependencies, integration risks, and architectural gaps * Lead architecture governance and ensure compliance with design standards * Define and design integrations, shared services, and data flows across the ecosystem * Communicate architecture decisions, trade-offs, and risks to both technical and non-technical stakeholders * Mentor and coach teams on architectural best practices and design thinking * Promote continuous improvement in architecture practices, including scalability, security, and performance Skills & Experience Essential * 6–8+ years’ experience in Solution Architecture, including leadership of large-scale programmes * Proven track record delivering end-to-end solutions across multiple teams or domains * Strong background in designing mission-critical or operational systems * Experience working in agile, product-led environments * Deep understanding of modern architecture approaches (AWS, cloud-native, microservices, APIs, event-driven systems) * Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills * Ability to translate complex technical concepts into business-friendly language * Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities, balancing cost, risk, and technical debt * Knowledge of emerging technology trends and their business application * Experience coaching and guiding engineering teams Desirable * TOGAF or equivalent architecture certification * Experience within airline or transport operations systems (e.g., scheduling, flight planning, disruption management) * Strong ability to translate business requirements into scalable IT solutions If you have the relevant skills and experience, please do apply promptly to be considered