Solution Architect (Retail Systems & Integration)

We’re seeking a highly skilled and hands-on Solution Architect to lead internal software engineering for IT projects. This is a hands-on position specialized in system integration, middleware, system development, scalable architecture design for retail systems e.g. POS, CRM, E-Commerce, Order Management Systems (OMS), Omnichannel Systems, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and ERP etc. This position will collaborate with software engineering team in Guangzhou and Business Solution Team and Application Team in HK for IT projects. Job Responsibilities: System Integration Lead the strategy for system integration, ensuring seamless data flow between custom-built applications and third-party retail systems (e.g., ERP, CRM, POS, E-commerce platforms Design and oversee the development of robust APIs, middleware, and event-driven architectures to synchronize data in real-time across all channels. Partner with external vendors and internal application development team when necessary to ensure successful deployment of third-party platforms. Ensure all systems meet strict data security and compliance standards e.g PIPL Evaluate and recommend new technologies, tools, and cloud services that align with the company’s strategic goals. In-House System Development (Hands-On & Oversight) Core Development: Participate in writing complex code, developing proof-of-concepts (POCs), and establishing core technical frameworks for the engineering team to build upon. Full-Stack Engineering: Guide the development of both retail backend and frontend applications Database Design: Architect scalable data models and database schemas (SQL and NoSQL) capable of handling high-volume retail transactions, inventory updates, and customer data. DevOps & CI/CD: Establish, maintain, and optimize Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines to ensure smooth, automated, and frequent software releases. Quality & Testing: Enforce rigorous automated testing practices (unit, integration, and end-to-end testing) and code quality standards to ensure system reliability and minimize bugs. Maintenance & Optimization: Monitor system performance, troubleshoot critical production issues, and proactively refactor legacy code to improve efficiency and reduce technical debt. Documentation: Ensure comprehensive technical documentation (system flows, API specs, database dictionaries) is created and maintained for all internally developed systems. Database Development & Optimization Design, optimize, and maintain MySQL databases – including schema design, indexing strategies, and query performance tuning Write complex SQL queries (joins, subqueries, aggregations) and analyze execution plans Implement database best practices (normalization, partitioning, caching, replication where needed) Development Management & Leadership Manage, mentor, and grow a team of in-house software engineers, QA testers, and systems analysts. Oversee the entire software development lifecycle (SDLC) using Agile/Scrum methodologies. Conduct code reviews, establish coding standards, and ensure the delivery of high-quality, maintainable code. Enhance the practices of technical design and specification, testing, data migration quality Manage resource allocation, project timelines, and technical debt. Required Qualifications: Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field. Experience: 10+ years of experience in software engineering, systems development and system integration. 5+ years of experience in a Solution Architect or Technical Lead/Management role. Technical Skills: Strong background in modern programming languages and frameworks (e.g., Java, C#/.NET, Python etc). Deep expertise in API design (REST) and integration middleware. Experience with cloud platforms e.g. AWS or AliCloud Solid understanding of database architecture e.g. MySQL Leadership Skills: Proven track record of managing engineering teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and delivering complex projects on time. Preferrable Qualifications Direct experience working in the Retail industry is a definite advantage Familiarity with specific retail technology ecosystems e.g. POS, ECOM, CRM, OMS, ERP, WMS etc Understanding of retail-specific challenges such as high-volume transaction processing, real-time inventory synchronization, and omnichannel fulfilment Fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin, and able to read and write English technical specification We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified candidates. Interested parties, please forward your resume stating salary expectation and available date to us. For more information of CRA, please visit www.cr-asia.com All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Personal data provided will be used for recruitment purpose only. The information collected might also be disclosed to other associated companies of the Fung Group for job matching of similar vacancies. The provision of full and complete information in support of your application is necessary for selection purposes. Applicant has the right to request access to and correction of personal data collected from him/her in writing to the Human Resource Manager by email to crarecruit@cra.hk .