Job Description

Head of Architecture
Location: United Kingdom
Position: Full-Time
About the Role
You will lead the design and delivery of enterprise architecture for mission-critical defence systems, integrating secure cloud solutions, AI, and zero-trust frameworks to enhance national security. This is a career-defining opportunity to shape MOD's technology landscape, driving innovation and resilience in highly sensitive, classified environments.
Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead a comprehensive enterprise architecture strategy aligned with MOD's Digital Strategy, Defence Digital objectives, and NCSC guidelines.
• Design secure, scalable architectures for classified systems, including STRAP-level environments, adhering to JSP 440/604 policies.
• Oversee the integration of emerging technologies (e.g., AI/ML, secure cloud [AWS, Azure, GovCloud], edge computing) into MOD IT infrastructure.
• Lead digital transformation initiatives, embedding DevSecOps, agile methodologies, and secure-by-design principles across MOD programmes.
• Collaborate with MOD stakeholders, primes (e.g., BAE Systems, Leonardo), and vendors to deliver innovative, interoperable IT architectures.
• Conduct architecture risk assessments, ensuring compliance with ISO27001, NIS2, and GDPR for defence-grade systems.
• Act as a strategic advisor, briefing senior MOD executives (e.g., Joint Forces Command, Defence Digital) on architecture roadmaps and solutions.
• Mentor and build high-performing architecture teams to support long-term MOD objectives.
• Stay ahead of global tech trends, leveraging NCSC and GCHQ insights to future-proof MOD architectures.

What We are Looking For

• Active DV or eDV clearance (essential; must be current and verifiable).
• 10+ years in senior IT architecture leadership (Head of Architecture, Enterprise Architect, or equivalent), with 5+ years in defence, intelligence, or HMG environments.
• Proven track record designing architectures for classified systems (e.g., MOD, GCHQ, or equivalent).
• Deep expertise in secure cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GovCloud), zero-trust architecture, AI integration, and DevSecOps.
• Strong knowledge of MOD frameworks (e.g., JSP 440/604, NCSC guidelines, MODAF, TOGAF).
• Professional certifications (e.g., TOGAF 9.2, CISSP, AWS Solutions Architect, ITIL) highly desirable.
• Exceptional strategic thinking and stakeholder engagement skills, with experience briefing military leadership and senior executives.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, Engineering, or related field (Master's or PhD preferred).
• Uncompromising integrity and discretion in handling classified and sensitive information.
• Proven leadership in building and scaling high-performing architecture teams.

Next Steps
Please send your most recent CV
#SecurityCleared #HeadOfArchitecture #DigitalTransformation #DefenceJobs #MOD #UKGovernment

Skills Required