Solution Architect - Open Banking - Remote Contract

We are seeking an experienced Solution Architect with deep UK Open Banking and payments expertise to support the design and delivery of complex, regulatorily compliant Open Banking solutions. This role requires hands-on architectural ownership across API platforms, Open Banking capabilities, and core banking/payments systems, with a strong focus on Variable Recurring Payments (VRP) and consent-driven access models., * Own and define end-to-end solution architecture for UK Open Banking initiatives, including AIS, PIS, and VRP

• Design and govern secure, scalable Open Banking APIs aligned to OBIE standards and regulatory requirements
• Lead architectural design for Variable Recurring Payments (VRP), including consent scopes, limits, schedules, controls, and life cycle management
• Define target-state and transition architectures aligned to regulatory roadmaps and strategic objectives
• Ensure compliance with Open Banking security standards, including OAuth 2.0, OpenID Connect, mTLS, and certificate management
• Collaborate with delivery teams to ensure architectural designs are implemented correctly through to production
• Engage with internal stakeholders, external partners, and third-party providers to support integration and delivery

• Proven experience operating as a Solution Architect in complex financial services environments
• Strong, hands-on delivery experience with UK Open Banking under OBIE standards
• Deep understanding of:

• AIS, PIS, and Variable Recurring Payments (VRP)
• Consent models and customer journeys
• Third Party Provider (TPP) interactions
• Regulatory obligations, customer protection, and dispute handling

• Strong experience designing RESTful APIs in regulated environments
• In-depth knowledge of Open Banking security and standards, including:

• OAuth 2.0
• OpenID Connect (OIDC)
• Mutual TLS (mTLS)
• Certificates and token management
• Consent-driven access control

• Ability to define and communicate end-to-end architecture across channels, Open Banking platforms, core banking, and payments systems