The mission of the Directorate-General for Consular Affairs is to provide a good, fast, high-quality consular service, both to Belgians (e.g. issuing passports, assistance to Belgians abroad, executing civil status certificates and nationality certificates) and to foreigners (e.g. issuing visas).

To this end, new technological possibilities are being exploited and regulations are being adapted, simplified and streamlined wherever possible.

In this context, transparency towards the users in our international locations (embassies and consulates) and towards the end users requires constant attention and quality control.

We are currently seeking an experienced Data Architect capable of designing a modern, secure, and scalable architecture, primarily based on Azure Cloud, while also structuring data governance within the organization.

This role requires strategic vision, strong technical expertise, and the ability to engage effectively with both IT and non-technical teams. It is a key position in our digital transformation, particularly in sensitive areas such as personal data and consular services.

Responsibilities

• Design and evolve the data architecture (models, flows, storage, security, accessibility) in an on-premises, hybrid and Azure Cloud environment.
• Define data management standards and best practices, aligned with enterprise architecture.
• Integrate data governance principles (catalogue, quality, ownership). Familiarity with the DAMA framework is a clear asset.
• Oversee or coordinate data migration projects (legacy → Azure), in collaboration with developers, DBAs, project managers, and business stakeholders.
• Document data flows, models, and exposed APIs, and ensure they remain up to date.
• Implement efficient solutions for data collection, storage, analysis, and exposure (Azure SQL, Blob Storage, Data Factory, Synapse, etc.).
• Identify organisational and technical impacts related to structural data changes.
• Ensure GDPR compliance and security by design across all architectures.
• Work in an agile mode with project teams.
• Contribute to the evolution of internal technical reference frameworks.

Profile

• Minimum 6 years of experience in data architecture or complex BI solutions.
• Strong background in Microsoft tools (SSIS, SSRS, SSAS) and Azure Data Services (Data Factory, SQL, Blob, Synapse, Key Vault, etc.).
• Proven experience in Azure migration or cloud-native data solution design.
• In-depth understanding of data governance (frameworks, roles, processes) – DAMA certification or willingness to obtain it is desirable.
• Good understanding of DevSecOps principles, data security, and legal frameworks (GDPR).
• Structured, autonomous, and rigorous mindset, with strong initiative.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to explain complex topics to non-technical audiences.

Languages

• Native French or Dutch, with good understanding of the other language
• Fluent in English