> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2321146-lead-data-architect](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2321146-lead-data-architect). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Lead Data Architect - **Company:** Harvey Nash - **Location:** Edinburgh, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** £33,000.0 - £65,000.0 - **Contract:** Temporary contract - **Skills:** Agile Methodology, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, Cloud Engineering, Continuous Integration, Data Architecture, Data Governance, Data Integration, DataOps, Data Streaming, Snowflake, Data Strategy, Togaf, Data Layers, Event Driven Architecture, Microsoft Fabric, Infrastructure Automation Frameworks, Apache Kafka, Data Management, Machine Learning Operations, Databricks - **Published:** August 5, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.adzuna.co.uk/jobs/details/5827651272 ## About the Role * We need strong data strategy and architecture capability to define and deliver a scalable data architecture aligned to programme objectives and external standards. * We need strong expertise in data modelling and standards, with the ability to develop and govern data models and ensure consistency and interoperability across systems and government partners. * We need experience designing end-to-end data flows to support seamless data collection, processing and dissemination at scale. * We need proven leadership in complex programmes, including data governance, quality standards and effective stakeholder engagement. * We would value experience with advanced architectures such as data mesh, data fabric and real-time or event-driven systems. * We would value experience with modern tools such as Databricks, Snowflake, Kafka and dbt. * We would value cloud engineering maturity, including CI/CD, Infrastructure as Code, DataOps and containers. * We would value experience supporting AI/ML enablement, including MLOps and advanced analytics platforms. * We would value analytics expertise, including BI tools and semantic data layers. * We would value certifications and frameworks such as TOGAF, DAMA and cloud certifications. * We need applicants to hold, or be willing to apply for, a valid Basic Disclosure Scotland. ## Description * We will design, govern and oversee data models and metadata systems, ensuring alignment with business needs. * We will provide strategic leadership on data architecture across the programme, supporting the overall architecture lead and data architecture vision. * We will ensure systems are designed in accordance with agreed data architecture principles and standards. * We will champion data architecture practices, standards and ways of working across teams. * We will manage data-related risks, resolve complex data issues and drive continuous improvement. * We will ensure effective integration of data across products, services and external partners. * We will set the vision for how our organisation uses data through effective data design. * We will translate business needs into a robust data architecture and ensure consistency across services and products. * We will lead across multidisciplinary teams in an Agile delivery environment and engage with stakeholders across government partners. * We will define and deliver the programmes data strategy in line with wider enterprise and cross-government data standards. Technologies: * AI * Census * CI/CD * Cloud * Databricks * Fabric * Support * Kafka * Snowflake * TOGAF * dbt * Architect * Flow, We are supporting a public sector client delivering data capabilities for Scotlands Census 2031. This is a 6-month contract, inside IR35, based in Edinburgh on a hybrid working basis with an immediate start. The day rate is dependent on experience. The role sits within a multidisciplinary, Agile environment and involves working closely with government partners to deliver secure, scalable and well-governed data architecture across the programme. ## Related Videos - [Modern Data Architectures need Software Engineering](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1030-modern-data-architectures-need-software-engineering) - [How Cisco embraced a DevOps culture within its network engineering team](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/99-how-cisco-embraced-a-devops-culture-within-its-network-engineering-team) - [From Messy Queries to Scalable Systems - How Data Engineering actually works](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100203-from-messy-queries-to-scalable-systems-how-data-engineering-actually-works) - [Blueprints for Success: Steering a Global Data & AI Architecture](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1577-blueprints-for-success-steering-a-global-data-ai-architecture) - [Hacking AI at the Edge of the Indian Ocean](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100177-hacking-ai-at-the-edge-of-the-indian-ocean) - [Beyond SQL Generation: How to Teach Agents What Your Database Actually Means](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100127-beyond-sql-generation-how-to-teach-agents-what-your-database-actually-means) ## Related Articles - [Data Engineer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/253-data-engineer-salary-uk) - [Data Analyst Salary in the UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/278-data-analyst-salary-in-the-uk) - [Making Data Warehouses Fast: A Developer’s Story](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/107-making-data-warehouses-fast-a-developer-s-story) - [What Are The Top Skills Required For Azure Developers?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/77-what-are-the-top-skills-required-for-azure-developers) - [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers) - [Coffee with Developers - Maria Apazoglou - Making AI understandable for all in production](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/475-coffee-with-developers-maria-apazoglou-making-ai-understandable-for-all-in-production)