Data Architect (mod Dv)

Most "Data Architect" roles in Defence claim to be strategic. Then you show up and discover you're really a glorified data steward, updating documentation no one reads, bolting frameworks onto legacy systems no one intends to fix. This role is genuinely architectural. You'll be working in a younger, modern, progression-driven environment that treats data architecture as an actual discipline, not a ceremonial function. Engineers rotate across programmes to broaden skills, leadership invests heavily in talent development, and the culture is far healthier than the traditional Defence suppliers that talk about innovation but never actually do it. We've had strong feedback from placed candidates into Architect-level and Transformation-level with this client - "good people, good environment, and a business that actually promotes you when you're ready instead of when someone finally leaves" They're scaling again across a MoD programme and now they need a Data Architect who can shape how data flows, how platforms evolve, and how their client makes decisions. What you'll be doing

• Acting as the Data Architecture SME, influencing strategy and guiding major decisions

• Assessing existing data ecosystems, identifying gaps, risks and opportunities

• Designing and maintaining data models, standards and enterprise frameworks

• Working across engineering, analytics and business stakeholder groups to ensure performance, security and compliance

• Establishing data architecture principles, policies and governance standards

• Documenting architecture artefacts in the enterprise repository

• Shaping future tech decisions in areas like AI, ML, automation and analytics

• Supporting delivery teams and mentoring more junior engineers

This is hands-on architecture with influence, not paperwork. You will actually shape how secure Defence data platforms evolve. What you'll bring

• Proven experience as a Data Architect in Defence or National Security
• Strong grounding in data management, governance, modelling and interoperability
• Experience with relational, NoSQL and cloud-based data solutions
• Knowledge of modern architectures, big data technologies and distributed systems
• Familiarity with AWS, Azure or GCP
• Strong communication and influencing ability
• Awareness of AI/ML data requirements and cross-domain data handling
• Ability to work autonomously across high-side programmes, * Active MoD DV clearance
• Must be able to travel to London regularly
• Must bring credible data architecture experience

This won't be right for...

• "Architects" with no delivery or modelling experience
• Individuals who struggle to communicate with non-technical stakeholders
• Those who resist modernisation or cross-domain collaboration

Technical experience across scripting, modern tooling and integration patterns is a bonus. Why people join this team Placed engineers have consistently fed back:

• A younger, modern consultancy culture
• Progression pathways that actually move
• Leadership that backs you and treats you like an adult
• Investment in learning, certifications and career direction
• High-side work that is genuinely meaningful
• Long-term Defence programmes with stability and variety, If you have DV clearance and strong architectural foundations, you'll be considered. Adjustments are available throughout the process. As an industry leading, nationwide Marketing, Digital, Analytics, IT and Design recruitment agency, we are continually receiving new assignments to work on, so keep a close eye on our website, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter pages for a full list of current permanent and interim opportunities as well as marketplace news and fun stuff. Forward Role is operating as an employment agency.