Principal Data Architect

A leading government department in Brisbane is seeking a Principal Data Architect to drive the transformation of its enterprise data landscape for a 12 month contract. This pivotal role offers you the chance to shape and implement a centralised data capability that unifies architecture, governance, engineering, and business intelligence into a cohesive service model.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the target-state enterprise data architecture to ensure alignment with organisational ICT strategy and government frameworks.
• Engage with stakeholders across business units to understand their data needs, map current practices, and inform architecture design through comprehensive business capability mapping.
• Define robust data models, standards, and principles that guide the creation of scalable and integrated solutions using platforms such as Dynamics 365 and ArcGIS.
• Establish a core data platform leveraging Microsoft Azure and enterprise business intelligence tools to enable consistent analytics delivery throughout the department.
• Implement governance frameworks that uphold high standards of data quality, security, privacy, and compliance with relevant legislation and policies.
• Promote knowledge transfer by mentoring staff, facilitating communities of practice in data and analytics, and uplifting departmental capabilities for long-term sustainability.
• Review existing systems and workflows to identify areas for improvement, reduce duplication of effort, and address inconsistencies in data management practices.
• Coordinate data demand across divisions by guiding projects towards shared solutions that maximise value while minimising redundant work.
• Collaborate closely with ICT delivery partners and vendors to ensure seamless integration of new solutions with existing enterprise architecture.
• Prepare detailed documentation for architectural designs and handover materials to support internal teams during implementation and ongoing maintenance.

The Ideal Candidate

• Demonstrated experience in leading enterprise-level data architecture or holding senior roles within complex organisations where you have shaped strategic outcomes.
• Advanced skills in business process modelling as well as designing integrated architectures using Microsoft Azure cloud services alongside platforms like Dynamics 365 and ArcGIS.
• Proficiency in SQL databases, ETL processes, Power BI reporting tools, and other modern technologies supporting scalable analytics solutions.
• Comprehensive understanding of governance frameworks including metadata management, privacy regulations (such as those relevant to Queensland Government), security protocols, and compliance requirements.
• Exceptional ability to communicate complex concepts clearly while building collaborative relationships with both technical experts and non-technical stakeholders across multiple teams.
• Proven track record of mentoring others uplifting capability within teams through knowledge transfer sessions or leading communities of practice focused on best practices in data management.
• Experience reviewing existing systems to identify inefficiencies or risks related to fragmented workflows or inconsistent practices and implementing improvements accordingly.
• Ability to coordinate competing demands from various divisions by prioritising projects based on organisational objectives while promoting shared solutions over siloed approaches.
• Relevant tertiary qualifications or equivalent practical experience; certifications such as Azure Solutions Architect or TOGAF are highly regarded but not essential if offset by substantial hands-on expertise.
• Familiarity with Queensland Government ICT frameworks or similar public sector environments would be advantageous.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are encouraged to apply.
To apply, please click "Apply" or contact Richard Lynch on 07 3032 2295 or richard.lynch@robertwalters.com.au for a confidential discussion.