Data Architect(UK visa sponsorship available)
Job Description
About the Role
The University of Sussex is entering an exciting new phase of digital transformation, and we are seeking an experienced Data Architect to help shape and deliver our data-driven strategy.
This role is central to enhancing how the University structures, integrates, and uses data across its research, teaching, and professional service functions. You will play a key role in developing data models, standards, and mappings that improve data quality, interoperability, and accessibility.
You will work across multiple projects and initiatives, supporting the advancement of our data, reporting, and analytics capabilities — including the integration of emerging AI technologies. You will also lead efforts related to data migration, integration, and governance.
This is not a data engineering role. Instead, the focus is on data architecture, modelling, strategy, and governance to support the University’s vision of becoming a fully data-enabled organization by 2035.
Key Responsibilities
Design and maintain data models, frameworks, and standards to support the University’s digital and data strategy.
Collaborate with business stakeholders, analysts, and IT teams to define data requirements and align solutions with organizational goals.
Support the design of data integration and migration processes across different systems and platforms.
Contribute to the development of enterprise-level data governance and management practices.
Advise on data-related technologies, including analytics and AI, to drive innovation and improve data accessibility.
Work collaboratively across the University to build a strong community of data-focused professionals.
Ensure that all data-related initiatives align with regulatory, ethical, and institutional standards.
About You
You will bring strong experience and expertise as a Data Architect or in a similar data-focused role. You will have:
Proven experience in designing and implementing data architectures and data models.
Strong understanding of data governance, management, and analytics frameworks.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage effectively at all levels.
Experience with data processing, reporting, and analytics tools.
Working knowledge of relevant standards such as Entity Relationship Modelling, DAMA-DMBOK, Archimate, BPMN, DMN, and TOGAF.
Familiarity with data modelling and architecture tools.
A collaborative and analytical approach, along with the ability to think strategically and work across teams, will be key to your success in this role.
About the Division
This role sits within the Digital Technology Division, led by the Chief Digital Technology Officer. The Division is delivering an ambitious programme of digital transformation, supported at the highest levels of the University.
Current initiatives include:
Upgrading data infrastructure and networks to support advanced analytics and AI.
Modernising digital systems across research, teaching, and professional services.
Enhancing campus technology as part of major estate and accommodation developments.
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a long-term vision that will redefine how data supports innovation and decision-making across the University.
Why Work at Sussex
Beautiful 150-acre campus next to the South Downs National Park.
Excellent transport links – a five-minute walk from Falmer train station, regular bus services, and on-site cycle routes.
Access to flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, and a range of staff benefits.
A welcoming, inclusive community with a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Opportunities to play a key role in a forward-looking university that values innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
The University of Sussex values diversity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.
This role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Please consult the UK Government’s visa eligibility guidance for further details.
All work must be carried out within the UK.
