Transformational Blueprints

Enterprise Architecture looks neat on paper — until reality hits.In this episode of Transformational Blueprints we sit down with Jon Hill, VP of Enterprise Architecture, Data, and Analytics at Alvotech, to strip away the theory and talk about what really makes architecture work in the real world.With over two decades in the field, Jon brings pragmatic insight into how EA can align with business growth, foster innovation through diversity, and stay grounded in outcomes rather than buzzwords.You’ll learn:Why the best enterprise architects think like business strategistsHow to balance governance, agility, and AI innovation without killing momentumThe overlooked soft skills that make EA actually stickHow to build diverse, high-performing teams that challenge conventionWhat it takes to earn stakeholder trust and deliver transformation that lastsNo frameworks. No fluff. Just the straight talk on what it takes to make enterprise architecture work.05:17 – The Role and Value of EA10:00 – Practical Skills for Real-World Architecture20:17 – Choosing the Right Team and Company25:20 – EA in Successful Digital Transformations26:57 – The Importance of Diversity in EA Teams29:30 – Developing Well-Rounded Solution Architects31:40 – Challenges in Architectural Leadership39:53 – The Impact of AI on EAWatch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup-------------------------Extra Stuff:Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market? What's in the report?Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market?-------------------------Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/-------------------------Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/-------------------------Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/

Enterprise Architecture is evolving—fast. In this episode, we break from tradition and dive into what modern architecture really needs to look like: pragmatic, relevant, business-aligned, and AI-augmented.🎯 We explore:Why so many architects are disillusioned with rigid frameworks—and what to do insteadWhat the “full-stack architect” of the future looks likeHow to build adaptive “town plan” roadmaps that survive real-world volatilityWhat it means to lead with cultural awareness, business value, and technical fluencyHow AI will elevate—not replace—the architectWhether you're new to architecture or leading transformation at scale, this is the conversation we all need right now.Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup-------------------------Extra Stuff:Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market? What's in the report?Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market?-------------------------Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/-------------------------Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/-------------------------Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/

In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we welcome Sam Slade, Head of Group Software Architecture at BPP Education Group, to discuss the journey 'From Monoliths to Event-Driven Architecture.' Sam shares his career path from software engineering to architecture, the challenges of transforming large tech stacks, and real-world insights on implementing event-driven architecture. He covers key aspects like the importance of anti-corruption layers, handling failures, and maintaining strategic alignment in enterprise architecture. Additionally, Sam provides valuable advice for newly appointed chief architects and reflects on the impacts of emerging technologies like generative AI on the industry. Tune in for expert strategies, practical lessons, and an in-depth look at modernizing legacy systems.Sam's Journey in Software and ArchitectureBPP's Global Expansion and EA Team InsightsThe Role of a Great ArchitectEvent-Driven Architecture: Key ConsiderationsReal-World EDA Implementation: A Case StudyFirst 100 Days as Head of Group Software ArchitectureThe Importance of Anti-Corruption LayersWatch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup-------------------------Extra Stuff:Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market? What's in the report?Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market?-------------------------Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/-------------------------Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/-------------------------Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/

In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we engage in a deep conversation with Jason Baragry, Ardoq's Chief Enterprise Architect, who shares over 30 years of experience in the field of enterprise architecture. Jason discusses his background, the unique aspects of his current role, and offers insights into what makes a successful architecture team. They delve into KPIs, the importance of sales skills for architects, and the impact of automation and AI on enterprise architecture. Jason provides practical advice for newly appointed chief architects and explores how AI can help lift junior talent and augment architects' tasks. The episode also includes a discussion on how to effectively engage with vendors and the anticipated changes in the market over the next five years.Principles of Modern Architecture PracticeThe Role of Design in ArchitectureChallenges in Scaling ArchitectureSimplifying Complexity in ArchitectureAdapting Tools to Organizational NeedsStarting Small for Big SuccessKPIs and Measuring Success in ArchitectureImproving Prioritization and Benefit RealizationEmbedding Architecture Thinking into Vendor RoadmapsLevels of Detail in Architecture DiscussionsAI for EA: Supporting Enterprise Architecture with AICurrent and Future AI Applications in ArchitectureAdvice for New Chief ArchitectsWatch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup-------------------------Extra Stuff:Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market? What's in the report?Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market?-------------------------Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/-------------------------Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/-------------------------Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/

In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we discuss the reasons why many transformation programs fall short and explores solutions with Anthony Sneed, Chief Technology Architect at the Hilti Group.Anthony shares insights from his 30-year career in tech, detailing his journey from a C++ developer to his current leadership role. He discusses the importance of balancing technical proficiency with leadership skills, the strategies for building a cohesive architecture practice, and techniques for developing a technology roadmap aligned with business outcomes.The conversation also covers critical aspects like governance, change management, and leveraging AI in technology development.Building a Modern Architecture PracticeThe Role of an ArchitectTransitioning from Developer to ArchitectBuilding Trust in a Distributed CompanyCourage and Risk-Taking in LeadershipModernizing Applications: A Case StudyTying Architectural Roadmaps to Business OutcomesThe Importance of Metrics and ObservabilityContinuous Delivery and Agile PracticesTechnology Acquisition and EvaluationGovernance and Roadmap ExecutionAdapting to Rapid Technological ChangeAdvice for New Chief ArchitectsNavigating Company PoliticsFuture of Talent and AI IntegrationWatch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup-------------------------Extra Stuff:Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market? What's in the report?Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market?-------------------------Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/-------------------------Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/-------------------------Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/