Solution Architect

Location: Wellington
Discipline: Government
Job type: Permanent
Salary: 140000 to 160000
Contact name: Matt Frizzell
Contact email: matt@placeme.nz
Job ref: 1650688
Published: 29 days ago
This is a high-visibility, strategic leadership role where you will drive the end-to-end technology vision across a complex, multi-system ecosystem (120–170 applications, 930 users). Working closely with Executive Leadership and Governance Groups, you will bridge the gap between business strategy and technical execution, establishing standards for scalability, modern security, and customer-first design.

Key Responsibilities & Priority Initiatives
  • Data Platform & AI: Architect a brand-new enterprise Data Platform, guide data integration strategies, and implement AI/automation frameworks on top of the data environment.
  • Cloud & Hybrid Infrastructure: Oversee the ongoing migration to Microsoft Azure and manage a hybrid environment (~100 private cloud servers alongside public cloud & SaaS platforms).
  • Core Systems Evolution: Lead the architectural evaluation and future-state planning for end-of-life core enterprise systems (ERP, rating, finance, HRIS).
  • Security & Specialised Tech: Integrate advanced security (Microsoft Sentinel) across network infrastructure, and provide architectural oversight for enterprise IoT projects, including a 500+ camera CCTV network with AI analytics.
  • Governance & Standards: Own the architecture review processes, promote TOGAF/SABSA/Azure best practices, and translate complex technical architectures into clear visual diagrams for non-technical stakeholders.

What We Are Looking For
  • Seniority: 5+ years of dedicated experience as a Solutions Architect within complex, enterprise environments (Public Sector/Local Government experience is highly desirable).
  • Broad Domain Expertise: Demonstrated depth across enterprise applications, cloud infrastructure (Azure), data platforms, enterprise security, and integration.
  • Strategic Communicator: Outstanding stakeholder management skills with a proven ability to present complex technical strategies to Executive Leadership Teams and Governance Boards.
  • Pragmatic & Collaborative: A "business-enabler" mindset—focused on building strong internal partnerships, coaching team members, and taking a pragmatic approach to governance and risk management.
  • Technical Rigour: Experience with architectural principles such as 'Secure by Design', 'Customer First', and 'Cloud First'.
Benefits & Culture
  • Generous Leave Package: 4 weeks Annual Leave + 1 Wellness Day per quarter + Birthday Leave (5 weeks total off per year).
  • Flexibility: Balance your week with a structured 3/2 hybrid working model.
  • Culture: Join a collaborative, close-knit IT team (60 staff) in a values-driven environment dedicated to community well-being, diversity, and continuous improvement.
How to Apply If you are a senior technical leader ready to shape the future digital landscape of a vital public organisation, submit your CV and cover letter today.
(Note: Shortlisted candidates will undergo a streamlined single-stage panel interview process).

Not a 100% match? Apply anyway. We value potential and perspective over a perfect checklist.

About placeMe IT 
placeMe IT is all about connecting the right candidate with the right job in IT.  We promote diversity in the workplace and have a human-first approach, striving for meaningful connections.  If you feel like you don't cover every base for this role, that's fine and natural; we encourage you to apply anyway.  It's rare that somebody ticks every box!