Backend focused Technical Architect

Who We Are:

At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse. 

Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences.  Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work. 

As a Backend/Cloud/Integration focused Technical Architect, you will be a key driver in designing and implementing robust, scalable, and secure backend systems for our clients' cutting-edge digital solutions. You'll work closely with our CTO, development teams, solution architects, stakeholders, and our new business team to define technical strategies, select appropriate technologies, and ensure seamless integration across various platforms and services. Your focus will be on cloud-native architectures, API design, microservices, data integration, and leveraging AI/ML capabilities, to create high-performing and intelligent backend systems. 

What you’ll be doing:

• Designing and documenting robust and scalable backend architectures, focusing on cloud-native solutions, microservices, and API-driven integrations
• Leading technical decision-making within project teams, ensuring alignment with business requirements and technical best practices
• Defining and implementing technical standards and patterns for backend development, promoting code quality, maintainability, and security
• Collaborating with solution architects, development teams, and the new business team to translate business requirements into technical specifications and solutions
• Identifying and mitigating technical risks, ensuring the delivery of high-quality and reliable backend systems
• Mentoring and guiding junior technical team members, fostering a culture of technical excellence
• Staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies, including advancements in AI/ML, continuously exploring new approaches to improve backend architecture and development practices
• Contributing to new business efforts by providing technical expertise for RFIs, RFPs, and pitch responses

What you should have:  

• Extensive experience in designing and implementing backend systems using cloud platforms (AWS/Azure preferred)
• Deep understanding of microservices architecture, API design principles (REST, GraphQL), and data integration patterns
• Proficiency in backend development languages (e.g., Node.js) and frameworks
• Experience with containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes) and CI/CD pipelines
• Strong understanding of security best practices and their application to backend systems
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Proven ability to lead technical decision-making and guide development teams
• Experience contributing to and supporting new business activities, including RFIs, RFPs, and pitches
• Knowledge of AI/ML principles and practical experience applying AI/ML solutions, preferably with AWS AI services

Bonus points if you have: 

• Experience with Vercel
• Familiarity with serverless computing and function-as-a-service platforms
• Knowledge of data warehousing and business intelligence solutions
• Hands-on experience with AWS AI/ML services (e.g., SageMaker, Bedrock, Rekognition).
• Experience with Python

What we can offer you:

• Private health insurance package (for employees working for us for a year or more)
• International and inhouse training possibilities
• Education budget to suit your own development
• International projects
• Diverse teams (in 2023 our office has won the 'Most Diverse Company' special award in the Loveable Workplace competition) 

And there is more:

• Kid and dog friendly office
• Annual team building days; fun events
• Award-winning and well-equipped office 

AT VML Enterprise Solutions

Our Enterprise Solutions division houses strategic consultants, creative and technical architects and skilled developers and operators that together help some of the world’s leading organisations to deliver outstanding digital experiences across all major routes to market worldwide: marketplaces, online retailers, D2C, B2B and social platforms. With over 4,200 experts in 55 operational centres across 34 countries, our capabilities span the entire buying journey from customer acquisition, through engagement, to conversion and loyalty, driving multi-channel growth for world-leading brands.

We work with some of the most exciting brands such as The Coca-Cola Company, EY, Bosch, Unilever, Ford, DFS, Mercedes-Benz, Johnson & Johnson, Nestlé, Sainsbury’s, Selfridges, Shell and Tiffany & Co. We’ve built over 500 platforms for brands and retailers and generate in excess of $29bn annually for our clients and work with over 50 strategic partners including Adobe, SAP, Salesforce, HCL, Shopify, Sitecore, BigCommerce, commerce tools and Acquia. Our reputation is based on our people, and we believe we have some of the best in the business.

As our business grows internationally, we’re looking for new people to join us on our journey to inspire and take a key role in shaping some of the best commerce solutions, services, and websites in the world. Working as a team, no problem is insurmountable; we share in our client’s successes and believe that anyone can show creative bravery no matter what their role is in the team.

#LI-MP1

At VML, we are committed to fostering an all-inclusive work environment that is both rewarding and career-forward. Our Inclusion, Equity & Belonging initiatives, alongside the VML Foundation, reflect our dedication to giving back and making a positive impact in our communities and beyond. Our people are the heartbeat of our organization—creators, doers, innovators, makers, and thinkers—who drive not just marketing, but meaningful experiences that resonate in every action and interaction. 

VML is a WPP Agency. For more information, please visit our website, and follow VML on our social channels via Instagram, LinkedIn, and X. 

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