Principal Cyber Security Architect

Principal Cyber Security Architect

Salary: £90,000 - £100,000

Working arrangements: 1 day per week in the office, 4 days at home

Location: Reading

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

About the Role

We’re looking for a Principal Cyber Security Architect to join a dynamic and growing security team of 10 professionals, reporting directly to the Security Manager. This is a fantastic opportunity for a self-starter who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and wants to make a real impact on the security posture of a leading organisation.

As a key member of the team, you’ll define and implement cutting-edge security strategies, lead cloud security initiatives, and ensure robust protection of critical assets. You’ll also have the chance to influence senior stakeholders and shape the future of security architecture across the business.

What You’ll Do

• Lead Security Architecture: Define and communicate a clear security vision aligned with best practices. Develop roadmaps for current and future states.
• Drive Cloud Security: Design and implement secure Azure architectures, lead cloud migrations, and embed security controls across systems and applications.
• Collaborate & Influence: Act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders, presenting complex security concepts in an engaging and clear way.
• Innovate & Improve: Stay ahead of emerging threats and technologies, champion initiatives like Zero Trust and intelligence-led security, and continuously improve security posture.
• Hands-On Expertise: Conduct risk assessments, threat modelling, and gap analyses. Support incident management and security assurance activities.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience as a Cyber Security Architect in complex, regulated environments.
• Strong technical expertise in Microsoft Azure architecture, secure software development, identity management, and security testing.
• Familiarity with financial services or pensions is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to lead and deputise for the Security Manager when required.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM, CCSP) and knowledge of frameworks such as ISO27001, NIST CSF, TOGAF.

Why Join Us?

• Competitive salary and annual bonus scheme.
• 25 days holiday (with flexibility to buy or sell).
• Pension scheme with matching contributions.
• Healthcare cash plan and flexible benefits.
• Life assurance (4x salary).
• Employee assistance programme and digital GP service.
• Paid volunteering day and staff referral scheme.

This is your chance to join a forward-thinking organisation where your expertise will shape the future of cyber security. If you’re ambitious, proactive, and passionate about protecting businesses from evolving threats, we’d love to hear from you!