Lead Data Architect

About the Company : WPP OPEN is WPP's proprietary, AI-powered operating system designed to connect our people, data, and technology to deliver integrated, creative, and effective solutions for our clients. It is a strategic imperative, central to our ambition to be the most integrated and client-centric creative transformation company. WPP OPEN is built to unlock the full potential of WPP's collective intelligence, streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and drive unparalleled value for our clients across all aspects of their marketing and business needs.

About the Role : The Lead Data Architect is a critical senior leadership role responsible for providing the central strategic direction, governance, and vision for data architecture across all of WPP Open. This role is essential for unifying the efforts of data engineers and architects who are distributed across various global workstreams. You will ensure a cohesive, scalable, and secure data ecosystem that prevents data silos and enables the development of advanced, AI-driven marketing solutions. You will be the authority on data architecture, driving consistency and best practices across the entire organisation.

Responsibilities :

• Develop and own the long-term strategic roadmap for WPP Open's enterprise data architecture, anticipating future challenges and opportunities.
• Directly lead a central team of senior data architects while providing strategic oversight and technical governance for all distributed data engineering and architecture talent across WPP Open.
• Harmonise data architecture practices and technology choices across disparate workstreams to ensure interoperability, reusability, and efficiency.
• Establish and enforce enterprise-wide data governance policies, data quality standards, and best practices across all teams and projects to ensure data integrity and security.
• Drive process improvements and introduce new, innovative approaches to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of data management and consumption.
• Serve as the primary subject matter expert and final point of escalation on data architecture, providing thought leadership to resolve highly complex, cross-functional issues.
• Manage the budget and resource allocation for the central data architecture function, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.

Key Shared Accountabilities :

Critical Knowledge and Experience :

Qualifications :

Equal Opportunity Statement : WPP is committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace.