Principal Architect

Closing date: 3 December 2025Make sure to read the full description below, and please apply immediately if you are confident you meet all the requirements.What is the purpose of this job?The Principal Architect will be responsible for the design, documentation and ownership of the architecture for all relevant systems, changes and programmes across the FTR scope. This role ensures technology solutions are robust, scalable, and aligned with the organisation's strategic objectives, providing architectural leadership to safeguard best practice and support innovation.What can I expect to do in this job?Provide key architectural input into business documents and support senior stakeholders.Develop comprehensive Architecture Definition Documents, ensuring all critical domains are addressed.Capture and document the design and architecture of current and future systems.Lead the collection, documentation, and sharing of architectural knowledge across the FTR scope.Contribute key input across design authorities and assurance groups.Mentor and guide other architects working on the program.Job Purpose StatementThe principal architect will be responsible for the design and documentation of the technical solution required for the project, working in conjunction with business stakeholders, architects and external suppliers to ensure fit-for-purpose solutions.Key ResponsibilitiesDocument the current ("as-is") solution architecture and data structures.Ensure proposed solutions align with architecture policies, principles, and governance standards.Take ownership of selecting and designing robust technical solutions that meet functional and non‑functional requirements.Produce documentation detailing the future technology landscape, system interfaces, and data flows.Act as the solution owner, maintaining coherence and integrity of the architecture across the end‑to‑end solution.Lead technical documentation preparation and participate in selecting delivery partners and technology suppliers.Identify, assess, and manage technical risks throughout the project lifecycle.Who will my key contacts be?Internal: Head of architecture, solution architects, SME’s, quality assurance, program and project managers, security team.External: FTR technical director, FTR business stakeholders, Train Operating Companies, Freight Operating Companies, Network Rail, RDG technology service providers, 3rd‑party developers, major technology providers (Google, Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, MuleSoft), cloud hosting providers (Amazon Web Services).RequirementsExperience as accountable architect on large‑scale, complex technology transformations.Experience designing utilising modern architecture.Defining data models, mapping, and flows.Experience communicating and influencing C‑level business stakeholders.Designing data‑intensive applications.Basic understanding of financial systems and domain.Lead architect across multiple domains.Proven ability to document and articulate complex architectures.Experience on legacy migration programmes (mainframe to cloud).Experience designing analytical warehouses.Strong presentation and communication skills.Benefits75% off rail travel for personal and family use, plus international rail discounts.30 days annual leave (plus buy/sell options and additional leave for key life events).Season ticket loan for commuting costs.Enhanced family leave – 30 weeks full pay for maternity, adoption, surrogacy, and shared parental leave.Pension scheme – up to 11.58% employer contribution.Private medical insurance (AXA PPP) including mental health and specialist care.Discounted gym membership and access to wellbeing programmes.Career Development & ProgressionYou’ll be part of a team driving innovation at a national scale, with the opportunity to influence long‑term ticketing strategy. xpwpeyx This role offers real ownership, exposure to transport and government stakeholders, and visibility at senior levels, providing exciting development and progression opportunities within RDG.Apply Now & Shape the Future of UK RailIf you are interested in joining RDG as a Lead Solution Architect and shaping the future of digital ticketing, we’d love to hear from you Click Apply now to start your application and be part of a team that is leading digital innovation in the rail industry.Please note that we are unable to consider applications from candidates who require visa sponsorship to work in the UK.Seniority levelMid‑Senior levelEmployment typeFull‑timeJob functionOtherIndustriesIT Services and IT Consulting#J-18808-Ljbffr