Director of Enterprise Architecture
Belgium
About the Role
We are seeking a Director of Enterprise Architecture (EA) to define, govern, and drive the enterprise architecture strategy across our client's organization. This role ensures that business strategy, digital transformation initiatives, and technology investments are aligned, scalable, secure, and compliant with Belgian and EU regulations.
As a senior leader, you will work closely with executive stakeholders, business leaders, IT management, and external partners to shape the long-term technology vision and guide complex transformation programs.
Key Responsibilities
Strategy & Leadership
* Define and maintain the Enterprise Architecture vision, principles, standards, and roadmap
* Align enterprise architecture with corporate strategy, business goals, and EU regulatory requirements
* Act as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on technology and digital transformation decisions
* Lead, mentor, and develop a team of enterprise, solution, and domain architects
Architecture Governance
* Establish and chair architecture governance forums and review boards
* Ensure consistent application of architecture standards across business units and projects
* Oversee architectural decisions related to cloud, data, applications, integration, and infrastructure
* Manage technology lifecycle, rationalization, and technical debt reduction
Transformation & Delivery
* Support large-scale transformation initiatives (e.g. cloud adoption, ERP modernization, data platforms, cybersecurity)
* Ensure architecture supports scalability, interoperability, resilience, and sustainability
* Collaborate with delivery teams to ensure architecture is actionable and pragmatic
Stakeholder & Vendor Management
* Partner with business, IT, security, and compliance teams
* Engage with external vendors and system integrators
* Contribute to sourcing decisions and contract evaluations
Compliance & Risk
* Ensure compliance with GDPR, NIS2, and other relevant Belgian and EU regulations
* Embed security, privacy, and risk management principles into architectural designs
Required Qualifications
Education
* Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or equivalent experience
Experience
* 10+ years of experience in IT or digital roles, including significant experience in enterprise architecture
* Proven leadership experience managing senior architects or cross-functional teams
* Strong background in large, complex enterprise environments (private sector, public sector, or EU institutions)
Technical & Professional Skills
* Deep understanding of enterprise architecture frameworks (e.g. TOGAF, Zachmate, ArchiMate)
* Strong knowledge of:
o Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)
o Application and integration architectures
o Data and analytics architectures
o Cybersecurity and identity management
* Experience with architecture governance and portfolio management
* Excellent communication skills, able to translate technical concepts into business value
Languages
* English and Dutch/French: fluent (required)
Soft Skills
* Strategic thinker with strong decision-making abilities
* Influential leader with strong stakeholder management skills
* Pragmatic, results-oriented, and comfortable navigating complexity
* Strong coaching and mentoring mindset
What We Offer
* Competitive executive-level compensation package
* Flexible working arrangements (hybrid/remote options)
* Opportunity to shape enterprise-wide transformation initiatives
* International and multicultural working environment
* Continuous learning and professional development