Cyber Security Engineer / Architect

Are you an experienced Security Engineer with Architecture experience who enjoys shaping secure, scalable solutions that make a real business impact?

At Howdens, we’re looking for a new member of the Cyber team to play a key role in embedding security across our systems, projects, and technology landscape. This is an exciting opportunity to influence secure design decisions across infrastructure, cloud, and application projects, while helping us deliver resilient, compliant, and future-focused digital solutions.

You’ll work closely with technical teams, the PMO, Enterprise Architecture, Cyber teams, and external suppliers to ensure security is built into everything we do, from solution design and procurement through to implementation and operational handover.

What you’ll be doing

• Designing and delivering security solutions that support Howdens’ business goals and cyber risk strategy.
• Providing security architecture input across infrastructure, cloud, and application projects.
• Working with stakeholders to balance business needs, technical constraints, and security requirements.
• Leading and supporting solution design and re-architecture initiatives to ensure solutions are secure, maintainable, and scalable.
• Carrying out security architecture reviews of new and existing systems to identify risks and drive continuous improvement.
• Supporting the evaluation and procurement of security technologies, ensuring they align with Howdens’ standards and architecture principles.
• Working closely with Cyber SMEs and Enterprise Architecture to support a consistent, joined-up approach to security across IT.
• Helping to promote Information Security best practice and support compliance with security policy.

What we need from you

We’re looking for someone with strong Information Security experience ideally with an architecture focus or architectural influence. You’ll need to be confident working across technical teams, influencing stakeholders, and turning security requirements into practical, effective solutions.

You’ll also bring:

• Experience leading solutions through the full lifecycle, from architecture and design through to engineering, deployment, operational handover, and support.
• A recognised Cyber Security qualification such as CISSP, CISM, or equivalent.
• Knowledge of frameworks such as ISO27001, PCI DSS, and Zero Trust.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence colleagues at all levels.
• Strong knowledge of lateral movement risks, network segmentation, and endpoint security.
• A good understanding of protocol analysis, network architecture, and infrastructure design.
• The ability to work with third-party suppliers and support change across a fast-paced environment.
• Experience in presentation or training techniques within IT Security would be beneficial.

Based from our office in Northampton working onsite at least 2 days per week. Please note, this role may require travel to other Howdens locations.

What we can offer you:

• Competitive salary and annual company bonus
• Company car or car allowance
• Private medical insurance
• Excellent pension scheme (company contribution of up to 12%)
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays with the option to buy additional days
• Staff Discount
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional Reward and Recognition events

How to apply

We’re building a future where world-class service, innovation, and sustainability are embedded within our DNA. If Howdens sounds like the kind of place where you can build and develop your career, then we’re keen to hear from you.

Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.

About Howdens:
Howdens Joinery is a highly successful FTSE 100 business, with more than 900 depots nationwide and more than 11,000 staff. Last year our sales reached circa 2.3bn, and we continue to experience significant growth and success. Despite our scale, Howdens remains a local business with traditional values.
There is a strong entrepreneurial ethos and the opportunity to develop within a fast-paced and commercial environment. That, along with a competitive salary, development opportunities, and exciting rewards, are among the reasons why our people enjoy working for Howdens – and why we have been named one of the 10 Best Big Companies to Work For.

Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.

Please note that candidates applying for this role must have a valid right to work in the UK, we do not offer sponsorship of employment for any depot positions at this time. We appreciate your understanding.

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