Chief Systems Architect

Overview

As Chief Systems Architect, you will define the technical direction for multiple advanced engineering and research programmes from Cambridge. You will lead cross-disciplinary teams, shape long-term technology strategy, and evaluate emerging computing technologies to address complex challenges. You’ll work closely with senior leaders to set engineering standards and drive innovation across a portfolio of high-impact projects. This is a strategic, hands-on leadership role with a focus on scalable, future-facing systems. You will help translate research into robust, executable architectures that advance the organisation’s mission.

Responsibilities

• Define technical direction across complex programmes
• Provide architectural guidance throughout the development lifecycle
• Evaluate emerging technologies and identify opportunities for future innovation
• Support engineering decision-making with technical expertise and strategic insight
• Lead research initiatives focused on next-generation computing technologies
• Assess new concepts through evaluation, modelling and experimentation
• Encourage innovative thinking and contribute to long-term technology planning
• Support creation of intellectual property through original engineering concepts
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver robust solutions
• Build relationships with research organisations and stakeholders
• Mentor senior engineers and technical specialists
• Promote collaboration and engineering best practice
• Provide technical oversight across concurrent initiatives
• Balance technical ambition with practical delivery
• Contribute to governance, risk management and quality
• Present technical recommendations to senior leadership

Key requirements

• Degree in Computer Science, Engineering or related discipline
• Extensive experience defining system-level architecture for complex platforms
• Strong background in large-scale engineering programmes and technical leadership
• Excellent analytical and strategic thinking
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams
• Ability to influence technical direction across diverse functions
• Outstanding communication and stakeholder management skills

• strategic thinking
• stakeholder management
• mentorship
• system-level architecture
• large-scale engineering programme delivery
• research and innovation

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