Shape the data foundations of a smarter, insight-driven university

We’re recruiting a forward-thinking Digital Solutions Architect (Data) to lead the design of scalable, secure and integrated data solutions that power Canterbury Christ Church University’s digital future.

This role is central to how we manage, connect and make sense of our data — ensuring our platforms and services are built on strong, compliant, and future-ready data architectures.

As a data architect within our Digital Solutions team, you’ll collaborate with digital designers, technical experts, and business leaders to ensure that our data landscape supports advanced analytics, operational efficiency, and evidence-based decision-making. You’ll drive the adoption of modern data platforms and integration practices, while safeguarding data security and compliance.

You’ll also play a key role in aligning data strategy with wider digital transformation goals, and support the delivery of innovative, high-impact digital services across the university.

We’re looking for someone who can:

Design and implement scalable, secure, and efficient data architectures aligned to strategic goals
Develop and oversee data integration solutions that support interoperability across university systems
Implement data governance, security and compliance practices to protect sensitive information
Optimise data storage, retrieval and processing for performance, cost-efficiency and scale
Enable business intelligence and analytics through thoughtful data design
Lead the adoption of modern platforms such as data lakes and cloud-based warehousing
Collaborate with digital, IT operations, business teams and external partners to deliver joined-up data solutions
Evaluate emerging technologies in data, AI and automation to drive innovation

This is a high-impact role for someone who can combine architectural expertise with curiosity, pragmatism and strategic vision — helping us unlock the full potential of our data.

Flexible & Connected Working

We are committed to supporting flexible methods of working wherever possible. Campus attendance will vary on a day-to-day basis and across the year, but must purposefully align to the needs of our students, staff, and stakeholders. It is expected that there will be a relatively even balance between time spent on and off campus, but in most cases the work location will be determined by the service required or the tasks/activities being undertaken.

Benefits of Working at CCCU

Canterbury Christ Church University is located in the world famous Cathedral city amongst stunning history and heritage. Canterbury is a thriving international destination, with many students and staff choosing to study and work here, making this historic, cosmopolitan city vibrant and culturally diverse.

Our staff enjoy competitive salaries and a great working environment with a number of benefits ranging from the occupational pension scheme to use of the University’s facilities including the library and fitness centre. We are strongly committed to equality and recognise the value of a diverse workforce.

We offer generous holiday entitlements plus eight bank and public holidays, as well as discretionary days over the Christmas period.

A full application including a cover letter detailing your experience alongside a CV is required for applications to be considered.

How to apply

Closing date for applications: 10/08/2025
Interviews are to be held: Interviews to be held shortly after the closing date.

If you require further information regarding the post please feel free to contact Andrew Chenery, Andrew.Chenery@canterbury.ac.uk (strictly no agencies, thank you) quoting reference number REQ05551.

Please note, Canterbury Christ Church University reserve the right to bring the closing date of this position forward where a high volume of applications is received.

Additional Information

Canterbury Christ Church University truly welcomes fresh perspectives and new voices. We want you to bring the real you to work, so we are committed to building a genuinely inclusive working environment where everyone is welcomed and where everyone can have a true sense of belonging. Our spirit of community will help us to eliminate discrimination and will enable us all to thrive in a culture that is underpinned by fairness and justice. We therefore seek people to join us who will proactively support and shape this aim and contribute in their own unique way. If this is you, then we are waiting to hear from you. #yourCCCU

Our University is deeply committed to shaping sustainable futures as a key part of its mission and values. If you share this passion, we encourage you to join us in making CCCU a more socially and environmentally conscious, sustainable place to study and work

Employment Visa Clarification: According to the UK Government Points Based System, this position does not fulfil the requirements for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Route application.

Please ensure you include contact details of two employment referees in your application, one of which must be your current/ most recent line manager.

Please note applications must be made online via the University website; details sent directly via email cannot be considered.

Prior consideration will be given to applicants in the University’s redeployment pool. No agencies, thank you.