Application Integration Architect Role Overview We are looking for an experienced Application Integration Architect to lead the design and delivery of scalable, high-performance integration solutions across enterprise systems. This role sits at the intersection of architecture, engineering, and business transformation—driving seamless interoperability between platforms while ensuring reliability, security, and performance. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including engineering, operations, vendors, and business stakeholders, to define and implement robust integration strategies aligned with enterprise architecture principles. Key Responsibilities Design and architect end-to-end integration solutions using modern integration patterns (e.g., event-driven, microservices, API-led connectivity). Translate complex business requirements into scalable technical architectures, specifications, and data flow designs. Develop and govern integration standards, frameworks, and best practices across the organisation. Ensure resilient, secure, and high-throughput data exchange between applications, services, and external platforms. Lead the integration of enterprise systems, including collaboration with third-party vendors and technology partners. Support the onboarding and deployment of new platforms, ensuring seamless integration into the existing ecosystem. Troubleshoot and resolve complex integration issues, including performance bottlenecks and data inconsistencies. Oversee and coordinate integration testing strategies (unit, system, end-to-end) in collaboration with QA and delivery teams. Produce and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including architecture diagrams, API specifications, and data models. Monitor integration performance and implement optimisation strategies (e.g., caching, asynchronous processing, load balancing). Stay ahead of emerging technologies and continuously evolve the integration landscape. Key Stakeholders * Enterprise Architecture and IT Leadership * Engineering, DevOps, and Support Teams * Business Product Owners and Domain Experts * External Vendors and Technology Partners Skills & Experience * Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems, or a related discipline. * 5+ years of hands-on experience in integration architecture, systems design, or software engineering. * Strong expertise in API design and management (RESTful/SOAP), middleware, and integration platforms. * Deep understanding of integration patterns (synchronous/asynchronous, messaging, event streaming). * Proven experience with distributed systems design, data modelling, and technical documentation. * Solid experience working within Agile/DevOps environments, including CI/CD and test automation practices. * Proficiency in: * Java and backend development frameworks * SQL and database technologies * REST/SOAP services, JSON, XML * Messaging systems (e.g., Kafka, RabbitMQ) Desirable Skills * Experience integrating ERP and CRM platforms in complex enterprise environments. * Familiarity with cloud-native integration services (e.g., Microsoft Azure Integration Services, AWS Integration tools). * Knowledge of security best practices (OAuth2, JWT, API gateways, encryption standards). * Exposure to containerisation and orchestration technologies (Docker, Kubernetes). Personal Attributes * Strong systems thinking with excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities. * Effective communicator, able to bridge technical and non-technical stakeholders. * Collaborative mindset with the ability to influence and lead across teams. * Highly organised, adaptable, and comfortable working in fast-paced environments. * Strong ownership mentality with attention to detail and quality