At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and implement security frameworks to protect IT infrastructure and data.
- Company: Outcomes First Group is a leading provider of specialist education in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy a four-day work week, life assurance, and extensive wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the lives of neurodivergent children while working in a certified 'Great Place to Work'.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in a related field and 5+ years of experience in information security required.
- Other info: UK applicants only; no sponsorship available.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Job description
Weare really proud to say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group wereofficially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the fifth yearrunning.
We’re on a missionto give our colleagues an amazing work/life balance! We aretrailing the four day working week, get paid 100% for80%!
Jobtitle: SecurityArchitect
Location: Bolton
Salary: £70,000to £80,000 per annum
Hours: 9-5Monday-Friday
UK applicants only.This role does not offer sponsorship.
JOBPURPOSE:
The Security Architect isresponsible for designing and implementing robust securityframeworks and solutions to protect the organisation’s ITinfrastructure, applications, and data. This role involvesassessing current security practices, identifying vulnerabilities,and developing strategies to mitigate risks while ensuringcompliance with relevant regulations and industry standards. TheSecurity Architect will collaborate with cross-functional teams tointegrate security best practices into all aspects of thetechnology environment and will act as a subject matter expert onsecurity-related matters. By fostering a culture of securityawareness and proactive risk management, the Security Architectwill help safeguard the organisation’s assets and maintainstakeholder trust.
The Security Architect willreport directly into the CTO and is responsible for designing andimplementing robust security frameworks and solutions to protectthe organisation’s IT infrastructure, applications, anddata
KEYACCOUNTABILITIES:
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Design and implement a comprehensive securityarchitecture framework that aligns with the organisation’sstrategic objectives and compliancerequirements.
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Conductregular security assessments to identify vulnerabilities, threats,and risks, and develop mitigation strategies to addressthem.
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Develop and enforcesecurity policies, standards, and guidelines to ensure that all ITsystems and processes adhere to best practices and regulatoryrequirements.
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Establish andmaintain an incident response plan, ensuring effective proceduresare in place to respond to security breaches and minimizeimpact.
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Work closely withIT, operations, and business units to integrate security measuresinto all technology projects and initiatives.
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Promote security awareness across theorganisation by providing training and resources to staff,fostering a culture of security mindfulness.
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Evaluate and manage relationships withthird-party vendors, ensuring their security practices meetorganisational standards and do not poserisks.
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Review and assessexisting security solutions, making recommendations forenhancements or replacements to improve overall securityposture.
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Ensure compliancewith relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards related toinformation security, data protection, andprivacy.
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Drive continuousimprovement in security practices and technologies, stayinginformed about emerging threats and industry trends to adapt thesecurity architecture accordingly.
EXPERIENCE &QUALIFICATIONS:
EssentialExperience and Qualifications:
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Education:
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Bachelor’sdegree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity,or a related field.
Experience:
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A minimum of 5 years ofexperience in information security, with a focus on securityarchitecture and design.
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Proven track record of developing andimplementing security frameworks and policies in complexenvironments.
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Experienceconducting security assessments, risk analysis, and vulnerabilitymanagement.
TechnicalSkills:
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Strong understanding of security technologies,including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems,encryption, and identity management.
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Familiarity with compliance frameworks such asISO 27001, NIST, GDPR, and relevant industryregulations.
Certifications:
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Relevant securitycertifications such as Certified Information Systems SecurityProfessional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager(CISM), or Certified Ethical Hacker(CEH).
AnalyticalSkills:
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Excellent analytical andproblem-solving skills, with the ability to assess security risksand develop effective mitigationstrategies.
SoftSkills:
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Strong communication and interpersonal skills,with the ability to effectively engage and influence stakeholdersat all levels.
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Ability towork collaboratively in a team-oriented environment while alsobeing self-motivated.
Preferred Experience andQualifications:
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Education:
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Master’s degreein a relevant field (e.g., Cybersecurity, InformationAssurance).
Certifications:
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Additional certificationssuch as Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP), CertifiedInformation Systems Auditor (CISA), or TOGAF (The Open GroupArchitecture Framework).
Experience:
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Experience in theeducation sector or with organisations focused on social care orspecial education.
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Previousexperience with cloud security architecture and managing securityin cloud environments.
TechnicalSkills:
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Knowledge of security tools and technologies formonitoring, detection, and response (e.g., SIEM solutions, endpointprotection).
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Familiaritywith secure software development practices and DevSecOpsprinciples.
QUALITIES AND BEHAVIOURS:
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Hold and articulate clearvalues
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Demonstrateoptimistic personal behaviours, positive relationships andattitudes towards colleagues, and wider internal and externalcontacts
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Lead by example,demonstrating integrity, creativity, resilience andclarity
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Highly motivatedand resilient
ADDITIONALREQUIREMENTS:
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Act as an ambassador for Outcomes FirstGroup
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At all times promoteand comply with organisations commitment to safeguarding, equalopportunities and health and safety
Please note the role specification is subjectto change as part of the dynamic nature of the business.
Why join Outcomes FirstGroup?
About theGroup
Outcomes First Group is theleading provider of specialist education in the UK. We exist togive neurodivergent children and young people access to a greateducation that caters to their specific needs, abilities andaspirations.
There are three brands in ourOutcomes First family: Acorn Education, Options Autism and MomentaConnect. Together, we educate, care for and support children, youngpeople, and adults across the UK, empowering them to be happy andmake their way in the world.
We are really proudto say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group were officially certifiedas a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the fifth year running.
Our VisionWebelieve that with a great education, every neurodivergent pupil canthrive and make their way in the world.
OurMissionEvery day we improve the lives of our pupils,their families, and local communities through a relentless focus onwellbeing and learning.
Our Promise We are kind to ourselvesand each other We work together and we make things happen. OurPromise sits alongside our Vision and Mission. It describes thesort of people we are and our commitment to how we treat eachother, work together, and behave.
Benefits
Your health and wellbeing are important to us, soyou’ll get an exceptional reward packageincluding:
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LifeAssurance
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Pension schemewith options to increase your contributions
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“Your Wellbeing Matters” – access to a widerange of first-class mental health support services and physicalhealth checks
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Family GrowthSupport – inclusive benefits package covering enhancedmaternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatmentsupport.
And a market-leading benefit offering through ourFlexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose thepackage that’s right for you, including:
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A wide range of health, wellbeing,and insurance benefits
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100’s of discount options valid in the UK andabroad
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Cycle to WorkSchemes
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Electric CarPurchase Scheme
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Criticalillness cover
And that’s not all, we place the outcomes of thepupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at theheart of everything we do, so you’ll wake every day in theknowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact onthe lives of others.
We are committed to the safeguarding andpromoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicantswill be subject to social media checks and successful applicants toa fully enhanced DBS.
We’re on a mission to give our colleagues anamazing work/life balance!
We are an EqualOpportunities Employer.
Security Architect employer: Outcomes First Group
Contact Detail:
Outcomes First Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Security Architect
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to familiarize yourself with the latest security frameworks and compliance regulations like ISO 27001 and GDPR. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the cybersecurity field, especially those who have experience in security architecture. Engaging in discussions on platforms like LinkedIn can provide insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've implemented security measures in previous roles. Highlighting your hands-on experience with security assessments and risk management will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your passion for fostering a culture of security awareness. Be ready to share ideas on how you would promote security mindfulness within the organization, as this aligns with the company's values and mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Security Architect
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in information security, particularly in security architecture and design. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to develop and implement security frameworks.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for security architecture and how your skills align with the company's mission. Mention your understanding of compliance frameworks like ISO 27001 and NIST, and how you can contribute to their goals.
Showcase Relevant Certifications: List any relevant certifications such as CISSP, CISM, or CEH prominently in your application. This will help demonstrate your qualifications and commitment to the field of cybersecurity.
Highlight Soft Skills: Don't forget to mention your strong communication and interpersonal skills. The role requires collaboration with cross-functional teams, so showcasing your ability to engage and influence stakeholders is crucial.
How to prepare for a job interview at Outcomes First Group
✨Understand the Security Landscape
Make sure to familiarize yourself with the latest security technologies and frameworks relevant to the role. Be prepared to discuss your experience with firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and compliance standards like ISO 27001 and GDPR.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
During the interview, highlight your analytical and problem-solving abilities. Prepare examples of how you've assessed security risks in previous roles and the strategies you implemented to mitigate those risks.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration
The role requires working closely with cross-functional teams. Share experiences where you successfully collaborated with IT, operations, or business units to integrate security measures into projects, emphasizing your communication skills.
✨Emphasize Continuous Improvement
Discuss your commitment to staying informed about emerging threats and industry trends. Provide examples of how you've driven continuous improvement in security practices and technologies in your past roles.