Solutions Architect

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.

What you will be doing.

• 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.

What you need.

• A good understanding of Service Oriented Architecture with significant practical experience of service-oriented design.
• Hold or work towards a qualification that underpins 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 at least 3 of the following areas; Information and Data Management, System Design and Development, Security (firewalls, VPN, intrusion detection and prevention systems), Application Management, ERP systems, CRM systems, Networking and Microsoft Solutions, and Infrastructure.
• 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.

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

How to apply.

Applying for a role with WMCA is straight forward. Follow these steps to get started.

1. Create your Careers Account. Register with your name, email address, and a password.
2. Build your Profile. Upload your CV to help populate your career and education details.
3. Write your Supporting Statement. Make sure to address each of the required essential criteria.
4. Submit your application. Do one final check and once complete, click submit.

Anonymised Applications.

Your uploaded CV won’t be visible after submission. Our process is anonymised, and only the information in your profile is used for shortlisting. Be thorough in each section. it’s your chance to showcase your skills and experience.

Using Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We cannot stop anyone from using AI help write application content. Used right, it can be a great tool. If you choose to use AI, then use it as a helper rather than relying on it wholly to write your application.

Applications that rely too heavily on AI may be rejected during shortlisting. For help on how to write a supporting statement, please visit the FAQs section of our careers site.

Reasonable adjustments.

If you have an accessibility need, disability, or condition that means you might require changes to the application or recruitment process, please get in touch with our Recruitment Team ([email protected]).

Salary and benefits.

We advertise salary ranges, with new appointments typically starting at the lowest salary point. In exceptional cases, the salary point may be adjusted to secure the best candidate. This approach allows for potential year-on-year salary increases, offering progression and appropriate rewards to employees. Requests for salaries above the maximum advertised range will not be considered.

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)
• EV car benefit scheme
• 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.

For more information, please visit the benefits page on our career site.

Why join WMCA?

WMCA is laser-focused on improving the West Midlands, bringing economic growth, jobs, homes, and better journeys to the region. We target local needs where it matters most, ensuring everyone has a job that pays well and has access to safe and affordable places they can call home.

We put people and place at the heart of everything we do, working hand in hand with our partners to direct funding where it's needed most. What you do, really matters. Your expertise will help make a big difference, improving people's lives, every day.

Creating an inclusive workplace.

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.

Non-UK applicants (excluding Ireland) would be required to hold a relevant Visa from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).