Data Architect (AWS & Databricks)

Overview

Our client is seeking an experienced Data Architect to support a major data transformation programme within the pensions sector.

The successful contractor will play a key role in defining and delivering the target data architecture, helping modernise Legacy platforms and establish a scalable cloud-based data ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement enterprise-scale data architectures leveraging AWS and Databricks.
• Define data models, architecture standards, governance frameworks, and best practices.
• Lead the migration of Legacy data platforms into modern cloud-based environments.
• Work closely with business stakeholders to understand pensions data requirements and translate them into architectural solutions.
• Develop and maintain conceptual, logical, and physical data models.
• Design scalable data lakes, lakehouse architectures, and analytics platforms.
• Ensure data solutions align with regulatory, security, and governance requirements.
• Support data integration initiatives across multiple source systems and third-party platforms.
• Collaborate with engineering, analytics, and business teams to establish data quality and master data management processes.
• Provide technical leadership and architectural guidance to delivery teams.

Required Skills & Experience: Technical Skills

Technical Skills

• Extensive experience performing a Data Architect role within large-scale enterprise environments.
• Strong hands-on expertise with:
• AWS (S3, Glue, Lambda, Athena, Redshift, IAM, Lake Formation).
• Databricks (Lakehouse Architecture, Delta Lake, Unity Catalog).
• Data Warehousing and Data Lake solutions.
• ETL/ELT architecture and modern data integration patterns.
• SQL and data modelling techniques.
• Data governance, metadata management, and data quality frameworks.
• Experience designing cloud-native data platforms and migration strategies.
• Strong understanding of data security, privacy, and compliance requirements.

Domain Experience (Essential)

• Proven experience working within the Pensions industry.
• Strong understanding of:
• Pension schemes and scheme administration.
• Member data management.
• Pension calculations and benefits data.
• Contributions, transfers, and scheme operations.
• Regulatory and compliance considerations within pensions.
• Previous experience supporting Scheme Management functions is highly desirable.