Head of Architecture and IT Development

Annual Leave: 35 days plus standard public holidays and an additional 4 days including the closure of our office between Christmas and New Year

Location: College Lane Campus

Technology is central to the University of Hertfordshire's ambitious new strategy, and we are investing significantly in digital transformation, data, innovation and artificial intelligence to enhance the experience of our students, staff and partners.

We are seeking an exceptional technology leader to join us as our Head of Architecture and IT Development. Reporting to the Director of Digital, Data & Technology, you will lead a multidisciplinary function spanning Enterprise Architecture, Systems Development, Business Applications, Digital Innovation, Data, and User Experience. This is an exciting opportunity to shape and mature the University's Enterprise Architecture capability, support the implementation of a new Student Record System, help mainstream the responsible adoption of AI, and play a key role in delivering the University's digital transformation ambitions.

Main duties and responsibilities

You will provide strategic leadership across architecture, development, business applications and digital innovation, ensuring technology services, platforms and solutions support the University's strategic goals. Working closely with senior stakeholders across the institution, you will lead the development of architecture standards and governance, oversee the delivery and evolution of enterprise systems, digital and data platforms, and identify opportunities to exploit emerging technologies to improve services and enhance the student and staff experience. As a member of the Digital, Data & Technology senior leadership team, you will contribute to the wider direction, performance and continuous improvement of technology services across the University.

Skills and experience required

You will have significant experience leading architecture, software development, digital delivery or technology transformation functions within a large and complex organisation. We are looking for an individual with a strong understanding of Enterprise Architecture, technology governance and modern software delivery practices, together with a proven ability to lead multidisciplinary technical teams, influence senior stakeholders and deliver technology-enabled change. Experience within Higher Education is desirable but not essential; we welcome applications from candidates who have successfully operated in other complex and highly regulated environments.

Qualifications required

You will hold a degree or be able to demonstrate equivalent professional experience in technology leadership, architecture, digital delivery or enterprise-scale ICT provision. Professional certifications such as TOGAF, ITIL, Agile or programme and project management qualifications would be advantageous.

Please view the job description and person specification for a full list of the duties and essential criteria, click 'Apply'. Please attach a personal statement showing clearly how your skills and experience match the Person Specification.

We regret that we are unable to offer UKVI sponsorship for this post; applicants will either hold UK Right to Work or demonstrate access to UK Right to Work before an offer is made.

Contact Details/Informal Enquiries: Andrea Bowes, Director of Digital, Data & Technology, A.Bowes@herts.ac.uk

Interview Date: 23 / 24 July 2026

Our vision is to transform lives: UH is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and building a diverse community. We welcome applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of their protected characteristics, and recognise there are different ways applicants may achieve the criteria in this document. We offer a range of employee benefits including generous annual leave, flexible location opportunities within the UK, discounted Sports Village memberships and free Active Staff sessions, personal and professional development and family-friendly policies. #GoHerts

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