Location: Hybrid (occasional travel to Client sites)
Start Date: November - Running until March 31st 2026 (extensions likely)
Day Rate: £650 outside IR35
We are seeking an experienced Enterprise / Solution Architect to support a major rail transformation initiative with our Client. This role will play a pivotal part in reviewing existing architecture, defining the target-state design, and ensuring the smooth transition of systems and services across the Client’s technology estate. You will work closely with senior stakeholders, architects, and delivery teams to design, document, and guide the implementation of architecture that supports the Client’s long-term digital, data, and operational objectives.
Key Responsibilities- Review and assess the current (as-is) architecture across the Client’s systems.
- Lead discussions on transition planning, system documentation, and access management during the migration period.
- Propose and design the target (to-be) architecture for the post-transition environment.
- Prepare architecture design documentation, including system blueprints, solution roadmaps, and technical recommendations.
- Provide expert direction on architecture considerations covering infrastructure, cloud, data, security, and digital technology.
- Recommend and define data sharing processes and supporting architecture.
- Sponsor and oversee architecture governance activities, including Architecture Change Board submissions and approvals.
- Collaborate with Client stakeholders and partner organisations to clarify system movements, dependencies, and design decisions.
- Hold regular (weekly or fortnightly) alignment sessions with the Client’s architecture team to ensure consistency with wider technical strategy.
- Identify gaps, redundancies, and integration challenges across the technology stack.
- Highlight opportunities where automation, data analytics, or artificial intelligence can drive value and efficiency.
Requirements
- Proven track record in enterprise or solution architecture within large-scale transformation programmes.
- Experience in designing and delivering complex system transitions or migrations.
- Strong understanding of cloud platforms, data architecture, integration, and security design principles.
- Excellent documentation and communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
- Experience leading architecture governance and contributing to architecture boards or equivalent structures.
- Ability to identify and implement opportunities for innovation using automation, data, or AI.
- Previous experience within transport, infrastructure, or public sector programmes.
- TOGAF or equivalent architecture certification.
- Familiarity with enterprise architecture tools and methodologies.
Top Skills
What We Do
Methods is the leading digital transformation partner for the UK public sector. We care deeply about making our public services better and have been doing this for 28 years.
Methods partners with a range of central government departments and agencies to transform the way public sector operates in the UK. Our mission is to help safeguard public-facing services and apply digital thinking to make sure the future of our public services is centred around citizens.
Committed to having social impact, we enjoy an enviable track record of delivering real savings and benefits. We do this by helping you move from vertically integrated legacy infrastructure to a platform business model – allowing you to keep infrastructure costs low and focus on doing what you do best i.e. delivering front-end services.
With Methods, you access a range of specialist skills and industry expertise to transform your organisation for the digital age, break free of expensive suppliers, and take control of your customer relationships and operating model.
Further information on Methods Group can be found at www.methods.co.uk.
