Enterprise Architecture: how it's evolved, and how it pays

As 2024 enters its final quarter, the Enterprise Architect space continues to be instrumental in shaping the technological landscape of organisations.

Enterprise Architects; they are a-changin'…

Traditionally, the role of an Enterprise Architect was primarily focused on aligning IT infrastructure with the overall business strategy.

But in the rapidly changing digital era, the exciting tech role of an ‘EA’ has expanded beyond that scope, writes Kieran Scully, senior manager of technology recruitment at Morgan McKinley.

Enterprise Architect job description

In the temporary and contractor market, the Enterprise Architect, is a flexible, high-level counsellor who may spearhead revolutionary changes in operations and technology.

In addition to pure IT infrastructure, the responsibility of an Enterprise Architect now includes creating comprehensive digital ecosystems that touch on the newest technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine learning, cloud computing, and IoT.

What about freelancing or contracting in Enterprise Architecture?

Often, contract or freelance Enterprise Architects are called in to manage time-sensitive, high-impact projects, be that in one of the modern areas, or traditional infrastructure.

At the same time, they are typically expected to build architecture that supports scalability and business agility.

EA day rates: Top three variables affecting daily pay

The day rate of an Enterprise Architect is rising in response to the growing demand for these high-level tech counsellors, particularly those with experience in A1 and cloud computing.

The primary determinants of compensation -- including the headline rate that an EA can command -- are:

Experience and specialisation

Due to increased demand, enterprise architects with specialised knowledge and experience in fields like cloud computing, AI integration, and advanced data management are currently charging more per day.

Financial services (and other industries) boom

Pay rates for other sectors have gone up due to the recent need for Enterprise Architects in well-compensated industries, particularly Financial Services.

Location

London continues to be the UK's primary hub for EAs, and as living and travel expenses rise, so do rates.

An enterprise architect's location is crucial because their work frequently calls for them to be present on-site.

Enterprise Architecture day rates and annual salaries

Year-on-year, we have witnessed a 4-to-6% increase in permanent, annual salaries for Enterprise Architects.

Contract day rates have seen a similar change year-on-year.

But on average, the daily pay for such freelance Enterprise Architects is 10% higher than in 2022 -- and 20% higher than in 2019.

With that sort of past performance on pay and remunerations, EAs who freelance or consult temporarily are currently sitting pretty.

Contractor pay for Enterprise Architects, especially in London, sit at:

Principal Enterprise Architect: £800 - £1250 a day
Lead Enterprise Architect: £700-£1200 a day
Enterprise Architect: £500 - £900 a day

Enterprise Architecture salaries, especially in London, sit at:

Principal Enterprise Architect: £85,000 - £135,000 per year
Lead Enterprise Architect: £80,000-£125,000 per year
Enterprise Architect: £70,000-£100,000 per year

Do you have the tools to be an Enterprise Architect?

The role of an Enterprise Architect as 2024 ends and 2025 comes into sight is evolving rapidly, with contractors in particular being essential contributors to many companies’ evolutions.

The ability of an EA to deliver on-demand solutions has raised the value they deliver to companies.

Their strategic ability to navigate across the operations and technology realms engaging multiple stakeholders, while remaining up-to-date with the latest trends and changes, makes them a critical cog for organisations navigating the digital future.

Finally, my forecast for the year to come…

Our forecast for Enterprise Architects in 2025-26?

Those who continue to enhance their skillset, particularly in Data, AI, Machine Learning, Cloud and Cyber Security, will be well-positioned in the long-term and will continue to benefit from increased rates.