IT Data Architect

Job Summary: The Data Architect will design, govern, and lead the implementation of Needham Bank's enterprise data architecture, including the bank's data model, cloud-based data platform, and core-to-cloud data integration strategy. This role is responsible for ensuring that data is trusted, well-modeled, well-governed, and usable across digital banking, analytics, risk, and regulatory reporting, while preserving the authoritative transactional system of record.

This is a strategic, hands-on role that blends architecture, modeling, governance, and delivery leadership.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Enterprise Data Architecture & Modeling

• Take an "Art of the Possible" approach to champion and deliver a fully capable data program

• Define and own the bank's data model.

• Create logical and physical data models aligned to industry standards.

• Establish clear boundaries between:

• System of Record, System of Engagement, and System of Insight

2. Data Platform Design

• Define data movement patterns from DNA and key SaaS systems into the enterprise platform.
• Ensure data designs support performance, security, auditability, and regulatory needs.

3. Master Data & Identity Strategy

• Define approach for Customer/Party master data, identity resolution, and cross-system mapping.
• Work closely with CRM, Core Banking, and fintech partners.
• Establish survivorship rules, golden record principles, and data reconciliation processes.

4. Data Governance & Lineage

• Define data ownership
• Build business glossary
• Establish data quality standards
• Ensure regulatory traceability for key data used in financial and risk reporting.

5. Integration & Core Strategy

• Define preferred patterns for integrating with bank core:
• CDC/event-first where possible, Batch extracts where required
• Reconciliation and exception handling
• Design mappings between core structures and the bank's data model.

6. Collaboration & Delivery Leadership

• Work closely with Data engineers, Application teams, Analytics team, Security & Risk, Compliance & Audit
• Translate high-level strategy into implementable roadmaps.
• Review designs, data models, and integration plans.
• Mentor junior data engineers and analysts.

• 8+ years of experience in enterprise data architecture
• 5+ years working with cloud data platforms (Azure strongly preferred)
• Deep experience in relational modeling (SQL Server / Azure SQL)
• Hands-on experience with: Azure SQL, Azure SQL Managed Instance and SQL Server, Azure Data Factory
• Experience with core banking or financial services data
• Strong understanding of OLTP, Data lakes and Event-driven integration

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Experience with Fiserv DNA or another core banking system
• Exposure to FIBO / FIB-DM or BIAN frameworks
• Experience with Salesforce, Snowflake, API Management a plus.
• Prior role in a bank, fintech, or highly regulated environment

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Normal business office environment
• Must be able to work flexible hours to address system upgrades or problem resolution
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Able to manage multiple projects and deliverables concurrently, keeping stakeholders and supervisors informed of progress
• Must be able to interact and communicate effectively across departments and executive management

Needham Bank offers a competitive salary and an amazing benefit package for a full-time employee which includes fully paid medical and dental insurance, HRA, 401(k) plan with an 8% bank match, paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, a bonus program, flexible spending accounts, vision service plan, group term life insurance, short and long term disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, and an Employee Assistance Program. We offer a great benefit package to our eligible part-time employees as well.