Solutions Architect (Senior) at Discovery Limited

Key Purpose


The Technical Lead / Solutions Architect is responsible for owning the technical integrity, architectural direction, and long‑term sustainability of a complex, data‑heavy financial software platform.
The primary purpose of the role is to ensure that the system is correctly designed, robust, scalable, and fit for long‑term product evolution, while actively reducing technical risk. This includes making and defending critical architectural decisions, guiding engineers through complex implementation challenges, and ensuring that financial data and calculations are accurate, auditable, and delivered in a way that supports both product and business needs.


Objectives of this role


We are seeking a highly experienced Technical Lead - Solutions Architect to take ownership of the design, implementation, and evolution of a complex financial software platform. This is a senior, hands-on role for someone who enjoys solving hard problems, shaping architecture, and mentoring engineers.
The person will play a critical role in shaping system architecture, making key technical decisions, mentoring engineers, and ensuring the platform is built with long-term sustainability, scalability, and correctness in mind.


Responsibilities


Lead system architecture across backend, frontend, and data layers
Design and review complex solutions; contribute code where needed
Build and guide Java / Spring Boot microservices
Oversee SQL database design and data-heavy workflows
Provide technical guidance on Angular / React initiatives
Mentor engineers and support a growing, relatively junior team
Take full ownership of technical decisions and outcomes


Preferred Competencies

Key Technical Skills


Strong experience with Java and Spring Boot (microservices)
Solid SQL and database design experience
Working knowledge of Angular and/or React
Proven experience in a Tech Lead or Solutions Architect role


Domain & Background


Experience in a product-based technology environment
Exposure to financial systems, asset management, or financial reporting
Strong understanding of complex data, calculations, and reporting flows
Background combining technology and business/finance is highly valued


Personal Attributes


Strong sense of ownership and accountability
"Been-there-before" experience — able to anticipate problems early
Patient, clear communicator who enjoys mentoring and teaching
Comfortable operating in a complex, domain-heavy environment


Education and Experience

Minimum Required


One of the following formal tertiary qualifications, obtained from a recognised South African or international institution:
Bachelor's degree in computer science
Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology
Bachelor's degree in engineering (Software / Computer / Electrical / Electronic)
BCom with Information Systems / Computer Science / IT


Strongly Advantageous (but not mandatory)


A business or finance component in the qualification (e.g. Economics, Accounting, Financial Management)
Dual or hybrid backgrounds such as BCom (IT/Economics) or similar
Formal exposure to financial accounting, data analysis, or information systems


Experience requirements


10+ years of professional software engineering experience
Proven experience as a Technical Lead or Solutions Architect
Hands‑on ownership of complex production systems
Deep understanding of data, domain complexity, and system design
Bonus: Experience in a DFM, asset manager, or financial services technology company.