VP, Enterprise Architecture

PURPOSE AND SCOPE :
The VP, Enterprise Architecture is a key strategic and visionary role to drive the evolution of our enterprise technology landscape at Fresenius Medical Care. This role will lead the development and governance of enterprise-wide architecture standards, ensuring alignment with business goals and digital transformation initiatives. This leader will collaborate with senior business and IT leaders to define and implement architectural frameworks that support scalability, agility, and innovation.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 
Architectural Strategy & Vision
• Define and evolve the enterprise architecture vision, strategy, and principles in alignment with business objectives.
• Develop and enforce enterprise standards to ensure consistent service delivery.
• Translate business strategies into actionable technology roadmaps and architectural blueprints.
Technology Leadership
• Lead cross-functional architecture reviews and design sessions to ensure alignment with enterprise standards.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on technology trends, risks, and opportunities.

Governance & Standards
• Establish and enforce architecture governance frameworks, policies, and standards.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, security, and operational requirements across all architectural domains.
Innovation & Emerging Technologies
• Evaluate and recommend emerging technologies and platforms to drive innovation and competitive advantage.
• Lead proof-of-concept initiatives and pilot programs to validate new solutions.
• Incorporate AI and automation technologies to enhance operational efficiency and innovation.
Enterprise Integration
• Oversee the integration of systems, platforms, and data across business units and functions.
• Promote reuse of existing assets and services to reduce redundancy and improve efficiency.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
• Collaborate with business leaders, product owners, and technical teams to ensure architectural alignment.
• Facilitate workshops and strategy sessions to gather input and build consensus.
Team Leadership & Development
• Mentor and coach a team of solution, domain, and enterprise architects.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and architectural excellence.

Risk Management & Resilience
• Identify architectural risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Ensure systems are designed for high availability, scalability, and disaster recovery.
Performance & Cost Optimization
• Drive initiatives to optimize IT performance, reduce technical debt, and manage total cost of ownership (TCO).
• Support technology rationalization and portfolio management efforts.
Architecture Documentation & Communication
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of current and target state architectures.
• Communicate complex architectural concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• This position requires approximately 10-15% travel, including domestic and international travel

SUPERVISION: 
• Responsible for the direct supervision of the enterprise architecture staff

EDUCATION AND REQUIRED CREDENTIALS: 
• Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology, Data Science, Engineering or other STEM major
• Advanced Degree preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:
• 10+ years of experience in IT, with at least 5 years in enterprise architecture leadership roles.
• Proven experience with architecture frameworks such as TOGAF, Zachman, or FEAF.
• Strong understanding of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), microservices, APIs, and DevOps practices.
• Experience with enterprise platforms (ERP, CRM, Data Warehousing, etc.).
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to translate complex technical concepts into business-friendly language.
• Experience with AI and automation technologies.
• Experience with data models and data governance.
Preferred Experience:
• TOGAF or other architecture certification.
• Experience in regulated industries (e.g., finance, healthcare, government).
• Familiarity with Agile, SAFe, or other modern delivery methodologies.
• Knowledge of data governance, AI/ML, and cybersecurity principles.