Lead Architect - ProdDev

Lead Architect

"True influence comes not from control, but from clarity, consistency, and care."

We are seeking an experienced, Lead Architect to shape our architectural vision and lead a multidisciplinary team of software architects. This hands-on leadership role blends strategic direction with operational excellence in architectural execution.

Who are we?

Priva is a dynamic and innovative multinational company with nearly 600 dedicated colleagues across all continents. We are passionate about addressing global challenges such as food security, energy transition, and water management. Our mission, “Creating a climate for growth,” reflects our commitment to empowering customers and making a positive impact through our solutions in horticulture and building automation.

At Priva, we’re more than just a company - we’re a warm, family-oriented community. We value listening, understanding, and honest feedback. We support new colleagues in finding their place and take pride in contributing to both our company and society.

About the role

As Lead Architect, you’ll be part of the Product Development department and a key member of the management team. You’ll work closely with Product and Engineering leadership to drive technical strategy and execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of software architects, fostering technical excellence and professional growth;

• Define and communicate a long-term architectural vision, translating it into actionable initiatives;

• Own and drive the technical roadmap across all systems, ensuring alignment with business and product strategies;

• Collaborate with product management and engineering teams to solve complex technical challenges;

• Identify and mitigate technical risks and architectural debt;

• Establish and uphold architectural standards focused on scalability, performance, and maintainability;

• Champion quality, reliability, security, and operational excellence across all systems;

• Stay current with emerging technologies and maintain deep technical expertise.

What you bring to the table

• 8+ years of software architecture experience, including 3+ years in a leadership role;

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience;

• Expertise in control systems and IoT environments, from embedded software to cloud solutions;

• Strong background in secure system design is a plus;

• Proven experience in owning and executing technical roadmaps in complex environments;

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present technical concepts to diverse audiences, including executive leadership;

• Strong problem-solving abilities and a talent for aligning technical and business needs;

• Demonstrated resilience and leadership in navigating uncertainty;

• Currently residing in the Netherlands.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong hands-on technical skills and ability to contribute to architectural implementations;

• Experience with regulatory compliance and security frameworks;

• Familiarity with the horticulture or building automation domain is a plus.

What do we offer?

• A unique opportunity to shape both the technical future and team culture at a purpose-driven tech company;

• Competitive compensation and benefits, including a pension plan;

• A healthy work-life balance: flexible working hours, 30 holiday days per year, with the option to purchase more;

• Healthy cafeteria options and free access to our on-site fitness centre, offering CrossFit, Pilates, Spinning, table tennis, and football.

Would you like to know more?

Please contact Andy Whittle, recruiter responsible for this role. andy.whittle@priva.com, or please reach out to me on LinkedIn.