Domain Architect Review

Working as the Lead Architect within IT on projects, including creating the High Level Design and governing the lower level design and build of a project from an architectural and technical perspective. Also responsible for IT Strategy, Roadmaps and innovation, such as running innovation events and championing innovation across the business. Project include large, multi-million pound projects to improve Retail and other business areas, such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) and Assisted Checkouts

I have learnt new skills, including new soft skills (presenting, reflecting, mentoring, coaching, leading), gained new technical knowledge (around architecture, cyber security, business architecture and reflective practice) and have been able to put this into practice. Existing skills held in architecture best practice and innovation processes where also expanded on and brought up to industry standard. Also shown how to apply these skills in the real world.

The programme was challenging in a positive way and therefore very enjoyable, as it drove me to succeed and want to progress within the programme and my career. Bite sized chunks of new knowledge where shared each week under different forums, alongside recommended reading and hearing what others think on certain subjects which meant that I was constantly learning in different ways.

The programme had a good structure. Fantastic support was provided via a Skills Coach and each module had specific timetables for how it would be delivered, typically a combination of lectures, workshops and own research / tasks. There wasn't a formal induction onto the course, which I think could have been useful and whilst overall the programme was well organised, more notice for meetings, lectures and workshops would have been useful, particularly as everyone on the course was working full time too.

My employer, particularly colleagues within HR and my line manager and Head Of Department gave fantastic support throughout the programme. This included offering mentoring, guidance with problems, completing many , many forms or testimonials and seeking out opportunities at work to aid development and to support the programme. Such as shadowing and getting more involved with Cyber Security and working on specific projects within Matalan to help develop newly taught skills.

QA provided great support whilst I was on programme in the form of a Skills Coach. My Skills Coach wasn't assigned until two months into the overall programme, so initially I found it difficult - but this is my only complaint. As soon as I had a full time Skills Coach assigned, I received fantastic support. Any questions or guidance I needed, my Skills Coach was there. They proof read portfolio submissions before submitting, offered guidance in terms of progress reviews and set soft deadlines to ensure work that spanned the full duration of the programme (i.e. the portfolio) was on track.

The qualification I have gained has helped increase my confidence within my role, but has also taught me a vast range of soft and technical skills which support my day job. It has also given me the tools and guidance to research further reading, courses or training. As new projects come along, I now have a wider set of skills to support my role within these and I know how to research effectively to support any gaps in knowledge.

Within IT we have regular team meetings, often a quarterly meeting is held off site and we do try and do social events a few times a year, the latest one being Ghetto Golf in Liverpool. Within Matalan as a wider business, there are always things going on in Head Office - such a themed days in the Bistro, charity events, sample sales, suppliers coming onsite to sell goods, etc. Christmas is always extra special too! With lots of activities like big quizzes, competitions, Christmas Markets on site, decorations and team lunches all organised! The Head Office is located near some small woods, meaning lunch time walks or eating lunch outside is possible. And about a 10 - 15 minute walk away there is a Starbucks, Greggs and sandwich shops, perfect for getting some steps in or having some fresh air. Outside of Matalan, networking events can be attended. I have been invited to a variety including Retail Tech events and KPMG hosted security events.

Yes

Matalan is a fantastic place to work. It is a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Everyone is helpful and champions each others successes and it is a very unique, family feel business which for a £1 billion business, as a small business feel. Everyone has a voice and everyone is known by The Board of Directors - we aren't just a number, as with other large companies. With small teams, development is strongly encouraged and there are different ways you can get involved with exciting opportunities.

Research Matalan as a business, including their culture and values. Research the role well and understand what you can bring to the table based on prior experience or interests you have going forward. Passion is everything, so if there are certain aspects of the role that excite you or that you're passionate about, make sure that shines through!