Security Architect (Outside IR35, DV cleared)

Role Overview
The Security Assurance Specialist is responsible for ensuring that security is Embedded throughout the life cycle of systems, services, and projects by applying Secure by Design principles from concept through to deployment and operational support. Working within a secure environment, the role provides independent security assurance, governance, and risk management to ensure that solutions meet organisational security requirements, regulatory obligations, and industry best practices.
The successful candidate will work closely with architects, engineering teams, project managers, and stakeholders to identify security risks early, provide pragmatic guidance, and ensure security controls are implemented effectively without unnecessarily impacting delivery.

Key Responsibilities
* Champion the adoption of Secure by Design principles across projects and programmes.
* Provide security assurance throughout the system development life cycle (SDLC).
* Review solution designs, technical architectures, and implementation plans to ensure compliance with security policies and standards.
* Conduct security risk assessments and identify appropriate mitigation strategies.
* Support security accreditation and assurance activities for systems operating within secure environments.
* Review and assess security documentation, including Security Management Plans, Risk Assessments, and Security Cases.
* Ensure security requirements are identified, documented, and traceable throughout project delivery.
* Work collaboratively with solution architects, engineers, and business stakeholders to embed security from the outset.
* Evaluate technical solutions against organisational security baselines and relevant security frameworks.
* Support vulnerability management and remediation activities.
* Contribute to security governance, reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives.
* Maintain awareness of emerging threats, vulnerabilities, and changes to security standards.

Must Haves
* Proven experience in Security Assurance, Information Security, or Cyber Security.
* Strong understanding and practical application of Secure by Design principles.
* Experience working within secure or highly regulated environments.
* Knowledge of security architecture and secure system design.
* Experience performing security risk assessments and documenting security controls.
* Understanding of the Secure Development Lifecycle (SDLC).
* Ability to interpret and apply security standards, frameworks, and best practice.
* Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
* Experience reviewing technical designs and providing security assurance recommendations.
* Ability to balance security requirements with operational and business objectives.
* Eligibility to obtain and maintain the required security clearance (where applicable).

Desirable Skills & Experience
* Experience with security accreditation or assurance frameworks.
* Knowledge of cloud security principles and modern infrastructure technologies.
* Familiarity with Zero Trust architecture principles.
* Experience working within Agile and DevSecOps environments.
* Understanding of threat modelling methodologies.
* Knowledge of vulnerability assessment and penetration testing processes.
* Experience using governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) tooling.
* Relevant industry certifications such as:
o CISSP
o CISM
o CCSP
o SABSA
o ISO/IEC 27001 Lead Implementer or Lead Auditor
o Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP)

Due to the nature and urgency of this post, candidates holding or who have held high level security clearance in the past are most welcome to apply. Please note successful applicants will be required to be security cleared prior to appointment which can take a minimum 18 weeks. LA International is an award-winning partner of choice for many of the world's most influential companies and government organisations. Holding Enhanced Government Security Accreditation, we are recognised as the European market leader in the delivery of Security Cleared talent to organisations that demand the very highest levels of security, compliance and assurance.

An award-winning organisation, having secured the prestigious Queens Award for Enterprise: International Trade over multiple years. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable and accessible workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of background or identity, and we encourage candidates who may not meet every listed requirement to still apply. If you require any adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will work with you to ensure a fair and accessible experience.

Please Note: If a high volume of applications is received, only candidates shortlisted will be contacted.