How to become a data architect

Data architect in a nutshell

• Role - To design and oversee the architecture that allows organisations to manage and use data as efficiently as possible

• Sectors - Across sectors including but not limited to finance, retail, government, healthcare, technology 

• Key skills - Data modelling, cloud platforms, data governance, security, communication, integration, database knowledge

• Path to success - Data-related technical experience, senior data engineering role, data architect 

• UK salary - Median salary in the UK of £85,000 per year

• Useful qualifications - DAMA CDMP, cloud certifications

What does a Data Architect do?

Businesses are generating, storing, and analysing more data than ever before. As such, the need for professionals that are able to turn this information into a secure, scalable and usable asset is growing.

According to a report published by Komprise on unstructured data specifically, 74% of organizations are storing more than 5PB of unstructured data, a 57% increase over 2024, with no sign of growth slowing. This is where the role of data architect comes in. 

In short, a data architect outlines a path for the future in terms of how an organisation uses and manages data. The UK Government Digital and Data Profession Capability Framework describes the role as setting an organisation’s vision for data use through data design, ensuring that it’s managed properly and meets organisational needs. 

They may design a data warehouse, define data models, advise on database technologies, create standards for data governance, and so much more.

It’s also true that security and compliance are becoming more important in this role. Architects need to think about who can access data, where it can be stored, how long it should be retained, and how to best protect sensitive information. 

Modern AI applications require reliable, accessible and well-governed data, so data architects are more involved in designing architectures that are able to support AI-enabled applications, as well as machine learning. 

Why do businesses need data architects?

Businesses now more than ever need reliable architecture to ensure that information can be found, understood, secured, and then used. The importance of this is rising as more organisations are adopting AI than ever before. AI systems depend on high-quality data, which means that poorly structured or governed data can create issues with security, compliance, and accuracy. 

It’s common for modern data environments to be increasingly disconnected and disturbed. When companies use a combination of specialist databases, data lakes, cloud platforms and more, it’s easy for things to become disconnected, but a data architect helps to ensure that everything is working together. 

It’s clear to see that there is a high demand for data architects at the moment. IT Jobs Watch recorded 786 permanent UK positions requiring these skills in the last six months as of July 2026. In the equivalent period of 2025, there were only 237 positions. 

How to become a data architect

The role of a data architect is not an entry level position. Data architects have developed their expertise over many years of experience in areas such as database development, analytics, software engineering, data engineering, or other technical roles. 

One of the most commonly taken routes is developing a strong foundation in data modeling and programming, databases, and structured query language (SQL). From there, they usually gain experience building or managing data platforms. 

From there, the next step tends to involve developing a broader set of architectural and business skills. Instead of building data systems alone, those who wish to be a data architect need to know how to assess requirements, communicate technical decisions, document architecture, and more. 

There are also qualifications that can support the progression to become a data architect. The DAMA Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) certification is particularly ideal for those who want to demonstrate a good knowledge across a variety of fundamental areas. 

The top skills data architects need

Cloud architecture

Cloud is now at the center of many modern data estates. Understanding services across platforms such as Azure and Google Cloud, and knowing when to use different technologies is becoming increasingly important. 

Data engineering

All data architects need to understand how data is taken in, changed, stored, and then delivered. Knowledge of ETL and ELT pipelines, data lakes, and streaming architecture will help them design systems that can actually be implemented, and maintained for the foreseeable future. 

AI and modern data architecture

Currently in 2026, architects need to understand the data foundations behind AI to be successful.

Communication and strategic thinking

It’s an overlooked skill, but one that matters a lot. Data architects need to be able to explain their technical choices clearly, even to those who don’t have a technical background. They also need to be able to clearly demonstrate how their architecture decisions are supporting business objectives. 

Data modelling and database experience 

It’s important for data architects to have a strong understanding of relational databases, schemas, data warehouses, and data models. A successful architect will be comfortable translating business requirements into data structures. 

Develop your data architecture skills with our recommended courses and learning pathways.