Group Application Architect 12 Month Fixed Term Contract

We're Hiring: Group Applications Architect (12-Month Fixed-Term Contract)

Fully Remote - UK-based applicants only

Contract: 12 Months

Join Us at Lifeways - Where Technology Meets Purpose

At Lifeways, we're proud to be the UK's largest provider of support services for adults with diverse and complex needs. For over 25 years, our 10,000-strong team has empowered nearly 5,000 people to live more independent and fulfilling lives - and now, we're setting out on a bold new digital journey.

We're investing heavily in digitisation and systems transformation, placing quality, innovation, and user experience at the heart of everything we do. Our goal? To revolutionise how we support our colleagues and the people we serve.

Why This Role?

• Make a real difference - the work you do directly impacts how care is delivered across the UK.

• Strategic leadership - you'll lead on application strategy, design, and governance.

• Fully remote - work from anywhere in the UK, with occasional travel when needed.

• Be part of change - help shape how a 10,000-person organisation uses technology to do better.

What You'll Be Doing

• Leading the evolution of our enterprise-wide application strategy and roadmap.

• Designing scalable, secure, and efficient application solutions across cloud and on-prem environments.

• Overseeing a team of Application Support Analysts and Specialists - including appraisals, performance management, and development.

• Managing relationships with third-party suppliers and ensuring licensing compliance.

• Playing a key role in the Design Authority Group and acting as a trusted advisor on strategic application initiatives.

• Ensuring alignment with data governance, security practices, and compliance requirements.

What You'll Bring

Essential experience:

• Proven background as an Application Architect (or equivalent), ideally at an enterprise scale.

• Strong experience developing and owning application architecture roadmaps.

• Knowledge of ERP systems and enterprise application ecosystems.

• Experience managing teams of technical specialists/analysts.

• Confidence working with third-party vendors and managing commercial software integration.

• The ability to take "As Is" landscapes and shape them into forward-looking "To Be" states aligned with strategic goals.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Strong project leadership and problem-solving abilities.

Desirable experience:

• Familiarity with billing and rostering platforms.

• Architecting solutions across hybrid (cloud/on-prem) environments.

• Experience with integrations and APIs.

Why Join Us?

This is more than just a technical role - it's a chance to be part of something meaningful. At Lifeways, you'll join a passionate, forward-thinking team where your expertise will shape the way care is delivered nationwide. You'll bring fresh ideas and play a critical role in our digital legacy.

Whether you're looking to step up, bring fresh perspective, or take on a new challenge - this is your opportunity to leave a lasting impact.

Ready to Apply?

If you're excited about leading transformative change, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now and help shape the future of care at Lifeways.