Head of Security Architecture & Consultancy

The role reports to the Head of Information Security, is a member of the UKTI leadership team, and oversees the design, implementation, and continuous enhancement of the Security Architecture, Identity and Access Management, and Secure Change Consultancy practices. This role works strategically across IT and the wider Bank to improve security, helping stakeholders manage Information Security risks effectively and influencing positive security outcomes.

Main Responsibilities

• Forge strong partnerships with Engineering/Development teams, including "3-in-a-box," to integrate security into project and agile change lifecycles with risks identified, assessed, and managed.
• Maintain a framework of controls, methods, and tools for security in IT change, integrated into wider IT Change Management, architecture, Release management, and Group frameworks.
• Establish indicators and oversee the Security Posture in Change workstreams, including analysis of residual governance, risk, and control positions.
• Influence improvements of security controls embedded into the Change Framework.
• Ensure transparency in managing Security and Privacy risks within Change workstreams and operational risks into Run, aligned with the ORMF.
• Identify, diagnose, document facts, and resolve complex technical and organizational security issues, ensuring transparent risk management and escalation.
• Influence at Roadmap steerco and risk committees to achieve security outcomes.
• Mobilize the Security Architecture practice with a plan to operationalize and embed, acting as an architectural escalation point.
• Maintain a community of practice for security consultants embedded into change projects, managing headcount, skills, training, and development.
• Represent UK Information Security at Governance Committees, coordinating reporting and submissions for oversight.
• Maintain relationships with stakeholders such as UK Technology, Group Security, Risk, Internal Audit.
• Manage risks and issues effectively.
• Manage stakeholder relationships, including senior management and project sponsors.
• Present progress and issues at senior management committees up to C-level.
• Ensure solutions follow the Bank's architecture and Security Directives.
• Support embedding of risk culture and ensure management awareness of the risk and control environment.
• Provide security advice and challenge on mitigation plans.
• Promote adherence to the Bank's Risk Management framework and policies, escalating concerns appropriately.

Ideal Candidate

• Research shows women are more likely to second guess themselves, so if you meet most criteria, consider applying anyway.
• Holds or can attain relevant certifications like CISSP, CISM, etc.
• Strong financial services industry knowledge.
• Senior experience in security architecture.
• Experience managing large-scale security projects and transformations.
• Understanding of IT Risk Management and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to develop, document, and communicate security solutions and strategies.
• Proven stakeholder management skills, including with senior management.
• Strategic ownership of security capabilities, defining and working toward long-term goals.
• Autonomous, influential, and proactive in resolving issues and risks.
• Excellent communication and networking skills.
• Commitment to continual improvement and customer-focused delivery.

Company Information

Handelsbanken is a relationship bank with a decentralized approach, a strong local presence, and a focus on long-term customer relationships. We are undergoing a significant Business Transformation to enhance our systems, processes, and services. Join us to shape the future of banking. We value diversity and inclusion, welcoming applicants regardless of background or identity.

What is in it for you?

• Access to extensive learning and development opportunities.
• Competitive salary and benefits, including private medical insurance, income protection, and life assurance.
• Leading pension contribution of 15% paid by the bank, with investment options.

Application Next Steps

Submit your application to start your journey with us. Our recruiters will review your details and contact you for a phone interview if suitable. If successful, you'll be invited for an interview. Our Talent Acquisition team can support you through the process. Contact us at uk_talent@careers.handelsbanken.co.uk. This advert will be live for at least two weeks, but the closing date may change depending on response volume.