Functional Architect (Function List Expert)

Contract

Industry - Automotive

£650 - £700

Inside IR35

12-month contract

Onsite in Crewe - 4/5 days a week initially (Flexible after a couple of months)

Possible international travel to Germany

Role Overview

The Function Architecture Manager leads the definition, management, and strategic planning of functional architecture within R&D. This role ensures seamless integration of new vehicle functions aligned with systems engineering processes, acting as a central expert and key liaison between business objectives and technical delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the function list process across engineering teams, ensuring it reflects project scope and system requirements.
• Own and maintain the function list, including over 600 system-level functions per project, from windows to steering systems.
• Coach and support function owners, ensuring adherence to development standards.
• Collaborate with platform development partners, ensuring key requirements are integrated into shared architecture.
• Oversee change control and stakeholder alignment regarding function list updates.
• Influence external partners to incorporate organisation-specific requirements in shared platform function lists.
• Drive strategic planning of functional architecture and process/tool enhancements.
• Generate project KPIs and report function architecture status at key project gateways.
• Manage internal and external resources, including service contractors.

Key Skills & Experience

• Strong communication and stakeholder management across cross-functional teams and partners.
• Deep understanding of systems engineering in the automotive or related industry.
• Extensive experience in vehicle-level functional development and electrical architecture.
• Strong leadership and strategic thinking skills.
• Knowledge of automotive networks (CAN, CAN FD, FlexRay, MOST, LIN).
• Proficient in function modelling and requirements tools (eg, CAMEO, DOORS).
• Familiarity with industry platforms and integration frameworks.
• German language skills (desirable).

Functional Architect (Function List Expert)