Information Security Architect - AJ Bell
Information Security Architect - AJ Bell

Information Security Architect - AJ Bell

Manchester Full-Time 48000 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the design and implementation of security controls for AJ Bell's technology.
  • Company: Join AJ Bell, a fast-growing investment platform with over 593,000 customers.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 26-31 days holiday, hybrid working, and a range of perks including gym access.
  • Why this job: Be part of a supportive team culture while making a real impact on security.
  • Qualifications: 5 years in Information Security, ideally in financial services; CISSP or similar certification preferred.
  • Other info: Hybrid working model with initial full-time office immersion for new starters.

The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.

To support the Chief Information Security Officer in managing and reporting the Information Security Risks faced by Technology Services (TS) in delivering AJ Bell's systems and services. This role is responsible for facilitating the secure delivery of AJ Bell's technology and business change. The Information Security Architect will play a lead role in designing and implementing security controls and processes. Key to this is assisting and supporting our colleagues in achieving their goals, but in a secure manner.

The key responsibilities of the role are:

  • Subject matter expertise for security best practice, ensuring the maintenance of the confidentiality, integrity and availability of AJ Bell's systems and data.
  • Design and implementation of enterprise security technology controls and platforms, following industry best practices.
  • Supporting and advising on projects and change initiatives to ensure that there is no negative impact on our security posture
  • Carrying out internal security reviews both on solutions we develop in house and third-party solutions.
  • Supporting audit and due diligence activities within Technology Services
  • Working with Information Security, Infrastructure and Architecture to define security standards.
  • Acts as an integration point between the CISO and AJ Bell business and technology teams to ensure security is embedded across the organisation

Technical Skills:

  • Demonstrable experience of implementing enterprise security platforms
  • Previous experience of delivering and maintaining of technical enterprise security solutions for (but not limited to) the following areas: End Point Protection, Cloud Security, Network Security, DevOps, Security Monitoring & Remediation is advantageous.
  • Knowledge of Secure Software Development Life Cycle best practices
  • Strong understanding and knowledge of Information Security risk management tools and techniques
  • Experience of security governance and compliance, ideally gained in financial services organisations
  • Demonstrable understanding of Information Security control standards and frameworks e.g. ISO27001, NIST, PCI DSS
  • Awareness and understanding of the Information Security threat landscape
  • Deep understanding of Information Security solutions and controls
  • Experience of Cloud security solutions and standards is highly advantageous

Competence, knowledge, and skills

Competence

  • Experience working within recognised Information Security frameworks and best practices such as ISO27001, NIST etc.
  • 5 years' experience in an Information Security role gained in a financial services or e-commerce environment is preferred

Knowledge & Skills

  • Excellent communicator, able to translate complex topics to all areas of the business
  • Significant experience in the area of Information security
  • Strong knowledge of core IT and networking concepts
  • Well versed in IT security capabilities, framework and concepts
  • Strong ownership of tasks, attention to detail and following through to conclusion
  • Ability to challenge approach, strategy and implementation to ensure Information Security is consistently considered and improved
  • Ability to work under own initiative to plan and communicate effectively with colleagues and customers
  • Structured, self-starting, flexible and enjoy working in fast-paced environments
  • Effective communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Ability to plan, organise and follow through on assigned tasks and complete with little or no prompting from management
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Attained CISSP or similar certification

About us:

AJ Bell is one of the fastest-growing investment platform businesses in the UK offering an award-winning range of solutions that caters for everyone, from professional financial advisers to DIY investors with little to no experience. We have over 593,000 customers using our award-winning platform propositions to manage assets totalling more than £90.4 billion. Our customers trust us with their investments, and by continuously striving to make investing easier, we aim to help even more people take control of their financial futures.

Having listed on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange in December 2018, AJ Bell is now a FTSE 250 company.

Headquartered in Manchester with offices in central London and Bristol, we now have over 1,500 employees and have been named one of the UK's 'Best 100 Companies to Work For' for six consecutive years and in 2025 named a Great Place to Work®.

At AJ Bell you can expect a friendly working environment with a strong sense of teamwork, we have a great sense of pride in what we do, and this is reflected in our guiding principles.

Our perks and benefits:

  • Starting holiday entitlement of 26 days, increasing up to 31 days with length of service and a holiday buy and sell scheme
  • A choice of pension schemes with matched contributions up to 6%
  • Discretionary bonus scheme
  • Annual free share awards scheme
  • Buy As You Earn (BAYE) Scheme
  • Health Cash Plan – provided by SimplyHealth
  • Discounted private healthcare scheme and dental plan
  • Free on-site gym providing a wide range of free classes
  • Employee Assistance Programme
  • Bike loan scheme
  • Sick pay+ pledge
  • Enhanced maternity, paternity, and shared parental leave
  • Discounted nursery fees at Kids Planet on Exchange Quay
  • Loans for travel season tickets
  • Death in service scheme
  • Paid time off for volunteer work
  • Charitable giving opportunities through salary sacrifice
  • Calendar of social events, including monthly payday drinks, annual Christmas party, summer party and much more
  • Parking at Exchange Quay (Subject to availability)
  • Personal development programmes built around you and your career goals, including access to personal skills workshops
  • Ongoing technical training
  • Professional qualification support
  • Talent development programmes
  • Peer recognition scheme, with rewards including restaurant and shopping vouchers or time off
  • Monthly leadership breakfasts and lunches
  • Casual dress code
  • Access to a range of benefits from our sponsorship deals

Hybrid working:

At AJ Bell, our people are the heart of our culture. We believe in building strong connections by working together. That's why we offer a hybrid working model, where you'll spend a minimum of 50% of the month in the office. For new team members, the first 3 months will be spent full-time in the office to help you immerse yourself in our business and build valuable relationships with your colleagues.

AJ Bell is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and all employees are empowered to bring their whole self to work.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, pregnancy, religion, physical and mental disability, marital status and any other characteristics protected by the Equality Act 2010. All decisions to hire are based on qualifications, merit and business need.

If you like the sound of the above, or just want to know more about the company and the role, we'd love to speak to you.

Information Security Architect - AJ Bell employer: Aj Bell

AJ Bell is an exceptional employer, renowned for its supportive work culture and commitment to employee development. With a strong focus on teamwork and a range of benefits including generous holiday entitlement, professional qualification support, and a hybrid working model, employees are empowered to thrive in their roles while contributing to the success of one of the UK's fastest-growing investment platforms. Located in Manchester, AJ Bell offers a vibrant environment that fosters innovation and personal growth, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
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Contact Detail:

Aj Bell Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Information Security Architect - AJ Bell

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with AJ Bell's specific security frameworks and best practices, such as ISO27001 and NIST. Understanding these will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to aligning with their security standards.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with current or former employees of AJ Bell on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide insights into the company culture and expectations for the Information Security Architect role, which can be invaluable during your application process.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on the latest trends and threats in the Information Security landscape, especially those relevant to financial services. Being able to discuss current issues and solutions during your interview will showcase your expertise and proactive approach.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your experience with enterprise security platforms and how you've implemented security controls in past roles. Be ready to provide specific examples that highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure, as these are crucial for the role.

We think you need these skills to ace Information Security Architect - AJ Bell

Enterprise Security Architecture
Information Security Risk Management
Cloud Security Solutions
Network Security
End Point Protection
DevOps Security Practices
Security Monitoring & Remediation
Secure Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
ISO27001 Compliance
NIST Framework Knowledge
PCI DSS Standards
Information Security Governance
Excellent Communication Skills
Attention to Detail
Project Management
Ability to Work Independently
Problem-Solving Skills
CISSP or Similar Certification

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in Information Security, particularly in financial services or e-commerce. Emphasise your expertise in security frameworks like ISO27001 and NIST, as well as any specific technologies you've worked with.

Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for Information Security and how your skills align with AJ Bell's mission. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to implement security controls and support business initiatives securely.

Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role requires excellent communication skills, provide examples in your application of how you've successfully translated complex security concepts to non-technical stakeholders. This could be through presentations, reports, or team collaborations.

Highlight Continuous Learning: Mention any ongoing professional development, such as certifications (like CISSP) or training in emerging security technologies. This shows your commitment to staying updated in the fast-evolving field of Information Security.

How to prepare for a job interview at Aj Bell

✨Showcase Your Expertise

Make sure to highlight your experience with enterprise security platforms and frameworks like ISO27001 and NIST. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've implemented security controls, as this will demonstrate your subject matter expertise.

✨Communicate Clearly

As an Information Security Architect, you'll need to translate complex security concepts into understandable terms for various stakeholders. Practice explaining your past experiences in a way that is clear and concise, showcasing your excellent communication skills.

✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills

Be ready to discuss how you've tackled security challenges in previous roles. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, focusing on how you ensured security was maintained during technology changes or project implementations.

✨Understand the Company Culture

Research AJ Bell's values and work culture. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding teamwork and mutual respect. This will show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the company as a whole.

Information Security Architect - AJ Bell
Aj Bell
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  • Information Security Architect - AJ Bell

    Manchester
    Full-Time
    48000 - 72000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-07-16

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    Aj Bell

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