Strategic. Structured. Seriously impressive.
Enterprise Architects are the blueprint-builders of business. You simplify complexity, connect the dots, and translate vision into reality. But when it comes to your CV . . do you architect it with the same finesse?
If your CV doesn’t reflect your ability to think strategically, communicate clearly, and solve complex problems, then it’s time for a redesign.
So what should a strong EA CV actually look like?
Start with structure (Your CV should be a system itself)
You wouldn’t present a chaotic architecture diagram, so don’t serve up a cluttered CV. Your layout should be:
- Clean and clear - Use white space well, avoid dense paragraphs.
- Logical flow - Most recent and relevant information first.
- Easy to navigate - Headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting.
Think of it like a high-level architecture view: crisp, professional, and easy to interpret.
Lead with Strategy (summary matters)
Your opening profile is prime real estate. Make it count.
2–3 punchy sentences outlining:
- Your specialism (e.g., Business, Data, Application, Technology, or Enterprise-wide).
- Industries you’ve impacted.
- Your strategic value.
Example:
Strategic Enterprise Architect with 15+ years’ experience in financial services, specialising in modernising legacy estates and aligning business strategy with technology outcomes. Proven leader in shaping target operating models and enabling digital transformation.
Avoid ‘buzzword bingo’ and focus on clarity, credibility, and confidence.
Show the Blueprint (key skills and capabilities)
This is your chance to showcase your toolkit. Don’t just list frameworks . . explain how you’ve used them.
Think:
- TOGAF, Zachman, ArchiMate
- Cloud & Integration Architecture (e.g., AWS, Azure, APIs)
- Governance, Risk, and Compliance
- Stakeholder engagement
- Capability modelling
- Operating model design
- EA tooling (e.g., Sparx EA, LeanIX)
Highlight both the strategic thinking and the technical depth. EA is all about bridging both worlds.
Project highlights (make them count)
Avoid writing a full autobiography. Instead, select career highlights that clearly show outcomes.
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), and keep it concise. Prioritise achievements over responsibilities.
Example:
Led enterprise-wide cloud migration for £2bn retailer, developing target architecture and roadmap. Reduced infrastructure costs by 35% and improved system resilience.
Visuals? Yes, but with purpose
A well-placed graphic, like a capability map snippet or framework reference, can work (if it’s clear and complements the content).
But beware of turning your CV into a PowerPoint slide deck. When in doubt: simple > showy.
Certifications, Training and Tools
Make this section easy to scan. Only include what’s relevant.
Good to list:
- TOGAF® Certified
- AWS/Azure Architecture certifications
- BCS certifications
- SAFe or Agile qualifications
- EA tooling and modelling platforms
Soft skills matter
Enterprise Architects are translators, negotiators, and change agents. Highlight:
- Stakeholder management
- Leadership and mentoring
- Communication and storytelling
- Influence and persuasion
You don’t only design systems - you guide organisations through change. Let that shine through.
Final Tips from the EA trenches
· Tailor your CV - one size never fits all. Align it to the role and industry.
· Use active language - ‘Delivered’, ‘Led’, ‘Architected’.
· Keep it to 2–3 pages - Quality over quantity.
· Include impact metrics - wherever possible, back it up with numbers.
· Don’t forget the human - You’re not just a framework machine. Let your personality peek through.
An Enterprise Architect CV should mirror the very things that make you great at what you do: clarity, structure, strategic thinking, and the ability to deliver outcomes.
Your CV is your personal reference architecture. Make sure it’s as powerful and future-fit as you are.
Need a review of your EA CV or want to know how it stacks up in today’s market?
Drop us a message - we’re always happy to offer guidance or feedback.
