Job Description

Head of Architecture
We're looking for an inspiring technology leader to shape the future of our enterprise applications. As Head of Architecture, you'll set the strategic direction for business systems spanning sales, service, supply chain, and back-end functions -- driving innovation, efficiency, and value across the organisation.
This is a permanent full time opportunity. Based from one of our corporate sites including Raunds, Northamptonshire, Brackmills Business Park, Northampton, Howden, Yorkshire or Croxley Park, Watford you will be expected to travel and work onsite 4 days per week.
What you'll be doing:

• Define and own our enterprise architecture vision and roadmaps
• Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing architecture team based across multiple sites.
• Partner with senior leaders to align technology with business priorities
• Govern architectural standards and champion modern IT practices
• Introduce innovative, scalable, and secure solutions that fuel digital transformation
• Drive a culture of architectural excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement across the technology organisation
• Ensure adherence to modern IT standards and architectural frameworks (e.g., TOGAF, SAFe, ITIL, ArchiMate, cloud reference architectures)

What we need from you

• Significant experience in enterprise architecture leadership, ideally within a vertically integrated organisation covering multiple business functions
• Proven track record in defining and delivering architecture strategies for enterprise applications in complex environments
• Deep understanding of modern SaaS, PaaS, and cloud-native application architectures, including multi-cloud and hybrid models
• Strong knowledge of platform-based architectures and API-first integration approaches
• Experience designing and governing architectures for ERP, CRM, supply chain, commerce, and digital service platforms in an integrated ecosystem
• Expertise in cloud architecture and associated security, compliance, and cost-optimisation strategies (AWS, Azure, GCP)
• Strong familiarity with modern delivery practices, including DevOps, CI/CD pipelines, containerisation, and microservices
• Experience in running architecture governance boards and assurance processes to enforce standards and drive alignment
• Degree in IT, Computer Science, or related discipline; professional architecture certifications (TOGAF, SAFe Architect, AWS/Azure/GCP Architecture) highly desirable

What we can offer you:

• Grade 3 role
• Competitive salary and company bonus
• Excellent pension scheme (company contribution of up to 12%)
• Car Allowance or Company Car
• Private Healthcare for you and your family
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays with the option to buy additional days.
• Staff Discount
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional Reward and Recognition events

How to apply
Good luck with your application. Before you apply, please speak to your manager, so that they are aware of your interest in this role. You will also need to attach a CV as part of your application. Please take note that this advert is a summary of the main duties and responsibilities and may be subject to change. If you have any questions or need further support or information, please contact Holly Gibbins in the Recruitment Team.
Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We're working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.

Skills Required