Solution Architect – Java & Kafka (Hands‑on, Outside IR35)

About the role

We are partnering with an exciting greenfield bank to deliver a Payments and Reconciliation transformation. The role is hands‑on, focusing on Java and Kafka to shape an event‑driven architecture across multiple banking domains.

Key responsibilities

• Own solution architecture and high‑level design across workstreams.
• Define event‑driven patterns using Kafka, streaming and asynchronous messaging.
• Manage cross‑domain dependencies and integration points.
• Provide governance, design approvals and stakeholder engagement.
• Collaborate with architects and offshore delivery teams.
• Ensure non‑functional requirements such as scalability, resilience, security and compliance.
• Lead design workshops and maintain the architecture roadmap.

Required profile

• 10‑15 years overall experience with 5+ years as a Solution Architect.
• Proven experience in large banking transformation programmes.
• Exposure to Payments, KYC, Billing, Treasury and Operations domains.
• Leadership of on‑shore/off‑shore delivery teams.

Required skills

• Java development and Kafka expertise.
• Event‑driven architecture, streaming and micro‑services design.
• API design and implementation.
• Cloud platforms – AWS and Azure.
• Architecture frameworks – TOGAF and Dynamics CRM integration.