Enterprise Data Architect

We are seeking a strategic and technical Enterprise Data Architect to support the evolving needs of the firm’s Master Data Management (MDM) program. This role is responsible for helping to define and operationalize a modern MDM strategy to include supporting the collection & centralization of critical data sources (Data Lakehouse), architecting system integration processes, and managing the data governance framework to ensure data consistency, accuracy, and accessibility across the firm’s environment. This role combines enterprise data architecture, platform engineering, and governance expertise to deliver measurable business value, improve data reliability and usability, and enable analytics, reporting, and emerging data driven capabilities. The position plays a critical role in aligning data platform design and execution with the firm’s strategic objectives, operational needs, and regulatory expectations common to a professional services environment. It’s not just about secure, clean data; it’s about enabling better and faster decisions. Operating with a hands‑on mentality and an ownership mindset, this role partners closely with ingest and curate data from core systems, establish authoritative data domains, and ensure data is consistently modeled, secured, and governed throughout its lifecycle. The ideal candidate will bring a balance of architecture rigor and engineering pragmatism, with a strong focus on data governance data quality, data platform stewardship. We are looking for a candidate that is passionate about building trusted, enterprise grade data platforms and turning complex data environments into reliable, well governed assets that support informed decision making. Key Responsibilities Execute the firm’s enterprise data platform strategy by helping to design, develop, and maintain a modern Data Lakehouse that supports trusted analytics, reporting, and operational use cases. Define and implement MDM approaches for key enterprise data domains, including authoritative data sources, data models, and lifecycle management. Establish and apply enterprise data architecture and governance standards, including data modeling conventions, metadata, data quality controls, lineage, and access management. Embed data governance, security, and compliance requirements directly into data platform design and implementation, supporting auditability and risk management expectations in a professional services environment. Partner with application owners, analytics teams, and business stakeholders to ingest data from core systems and ensure data is fit for enterprise use. Provide hands‑on technical leadership through architectural guidance, solution design, and review of data platform implementations and vendor deliverables. Develop reusable data frameworks, patterns, and documentation to promote consistency, efficiency, and long‑term platform sustainability. Monitor data platform performance and data quality, identify opportunities for optimization, reliability improvements, and cost efficiency. Stay current on data platforms, architecture, and governance trends and recommend practical enhancements aligned with firm priorities. Job Requirements The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of this position. Michael Best will always consider candidates with an equivalent combination of relevant experience and education. Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience. Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive experience in data architecture, data engineering, or enterprise data platform roles. Demonstrated experience designing and supporting modern data platforms (e.g., Data Lakehouse, analytics platforms, enterprise data warehouses). Strong working knowledge of MDM concepts, enterprise data domains, and data governance practices. Experience implementing data quality, metadata, lineage, and access controls within enterprise data environments. Prior experience in professional services, legal, financial services, or similarly regulated environments preferred. Location We have offices in Wisconsin (Green Bay, Madison, Milwaukee, Waukesha); Illinois (Chicago); Utah (Salt Lake City); Colorado (Denver, Broomfield); Texas (Austin); North Carolina (Charlotte, Durham, Raleigh, Wilmington); California (Los Angeles); Nebraska (Lincoln); and Washington DC. Our contemporary office spaces are ideal for concentration and collaboration; supporting our culture of working together to make great things happen for our Clients. This position will be based in our Chicago, Denver, Austin, Milwaukee, or Waukesha office. Learning and Growth Challenging and Dynamic Role Professional Growth Opportunities Performance Management and Coaching Specialized Training Programs Medical Vision Care Health Savings Accounts Flexible Spending Accounts Wellness Program Employee and Family Assistance Program Total Compensation Competitive Base Pay Annual Merit Review/Incentive Pay Planning for the Future 401(k) with Company Contribution Short Term Disability Plan Long Term Disability Plan Life Insurance Critical Illness Insurance Parental/Family Leave Culture and Workplace Respected organization with Collaborative Culture Growing Firm with an Exciting Future Contemporary Work Environment Positive and Respectful Work Climate Performance Recognition Compensation for this position will range from $145,000 - $165,000, depending on experience and location. Michael Best & Friedrich LLP and Michael Best Strategies LLC (collectively known as "Michael Best") are steadfastly committed to providing equal employment opportunity and maintaining a workplace for employees and applicants for employment that is free from discrimination based upon age, race, religion, color, disability, marital status, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please contact our Recruiting team at View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io to let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. #J-18808-Ljbffr