Enterprise Application Architect

Job Purpose Summary

The Enterprise Applications Architect is responsible for managing and overseeing IT enterprise architecture across development and production environments. This includes re-engineering existing systems, adopting modern technologies, and implementing the latest design standards. The role ensures that enterprise systems meet business requirements efficiently and cost-effectively through optimal technology solutions and architecture platforms.

Key Responsibilities

A. Shareholder & Financial

• Provide comprehensive, cost-effective solutions for internal and external applications.
• Collaborate with the Head of Enterprise Architecture to ensure architectural decisions align with the Group’s overall IT strategy.
• Coordinate with business and technology leaders regarding system-impacting changes.

B. Customer (Internal & External)

• Engage stakeholders to understand and document business requirements for suitable solution design.
• Build strong relationships across departments and with vendors to support organizational goals.
• Ensure timely, accurate information is available to auditors and compliance when required.

C. Internal (Processes, Products, Regulatory)

• Develop and execute strategies to implement Enterprise Architecture within the organization.
• Utilize architecture frameworks such as TOGAF to guide implementation and governance.
• Design logical enterprise information architecture ensuring seamless data interoperability.
• Lead the development of a Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) integration layer for system-wide data flow.
• Propose and help enforce new enterprise architecture standards aligned with evolving business needs and technologies.
• Perform architecture reviews ensuring adherence to ITIL, risk, compliance, and reuse principles.
• Research, design, and pilot new architecture initiatives to meet enterprise needs.
• Drive scalable and adaptable enterprise design in alignment with business transformation.
• Partner with infrastructure and application teams to implement robust architectural solutions.
• Identify data architecture gaps and resolve in collaboration with business stakeholders.
• Monitor and recommend emerging technologies relevant to the enterprise.
• Ensure IT security, internet, VPN, BCP, and DR standards compliance.

D. Learning & Knowledge

• Analyze existing systems and user requirements to provide appropriate solutions.
• Leverage deep knowledge of systems architecture to align solutions with long-term IT strategy.
• Facilitate regular team meetings to review progress and address challenges.
• Promote continuous professional development for self and direct reports.

E. Cloud Architecture

• Develop and manage an enterprise-wide cloud strategy.
• Evaluate and provide oversight on cloud-based hardware, software, and application integration.
• Work with Group Information Security (GIS) to monitor and enforce cloud data privacy.
• Guide the organization through the cloud adoption lifecycle and recommend best practices.
• Advise on cloud providers, services, and integration strategies based on security and performance.
• Lead bulk migration strategies and integration of cloud with existing QNB infrastructure.

F. Other Duties

• Ensure strict confidentiality and security of sensitive commercial and technical information.
• Perform other tasks as assigned by the Head of IT Strategy & Governance.

Education & Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in enterprise architecture, systems design, and management within financial services.
• Specialized training or certifications in IT Security and Enterprise Architecture (e.g., TOGAF, ITIL).

Key Skills & Competencies

• Proven experience in enterprise architecture frameworks (especially TOGAF).
• Deep understanding of SOA design and enterprise integration strategies.
• Strong programming and development skills across multiple platforms.
• Fluent in English; Arabic is a plus.
• Excellent leadership, team-building, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and analytical capabilities.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.
• Effective project management and organizational skills.