Senior Data Architect

Job Description

Principal Enterprise Data Architect / Principal Data Platform Architect role for Mastercard. The client needs a senior-level architect with 15+ years of experience who can modernize global data platforms, lead cloud and data architecture strategy, and influence VP/C-suite stakeholders.

This is not just a hands-on Data Engineer role. The candidate must combine enterprise architecture, distributed data systems, cloud modernization, security/compliance, and executive-level leadership.

Proven experience as a Principal Engineer, Lead Architect, or equivalent technical leadership role driving enterprise-scale data architecture and platform strategy.

• Deep expertise designing, building, and operating distributed data systems at global scale.

• Strong hands-on experience with technologies such as Apache Spark, Kafka, Flink, NiFi, Databricks, Snowflake, and modern cloud-native data platforms.

• Demonstrated success modernizing data platforms using cloud native architectures across AWS, Azure, and/or GCP.

• Experience integrating AI driven capabilities into data platforms, with appropriate governance and guardrails for emerging use cases, including agentic commerce.

• Strong understanding of data governance, security, and regulatory compliance in highly regulated, global environments.

• Proven ability to lead and influence architectural initiatives within Agile, SAFe, or product centric delivery models, partnering effectively with product, engineering, and business stakeholders.

• Demonstrated ability to influence technical and business decisions at all levels, including C-suite stakeholders.

• Strong executive presence with the ability to translate complex architecture concepts into business language.

• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to executive and non-technical audiences.

• Strong Decency Quotient (DQ) with a track record of building inclusive, collaborative, high performing teams.