At a Glance
- Tasks: Design secure digital services and lead cyber security initiatives across the university.
- Company: Join Canterbury Christ Church University’s innovative Digital Services team.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible working, and access to university facilities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on digital security in a vibrant academic environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in IT or Cyber Security with experience in security architecture.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Please note a full application including a covering letter detailing your experience alongside a CV is required for applications to be considered. Applications made without providing a cover letter will not be accepted.
Join our architecture team to shape pragmatic, secure-by-design digital services that enable innovation and resilience across our university community. This is an exciting opportunity to join a newly transformed Digital function and play a leading role in designing secure, resilient and future-ready digital services across the University.
As our Digital Solutions Architect (Cyber Security), you will take end-to-end ownership of enterprise security architecture across identity, cloud platforms, hybrid infrastructure, networks, integrations, applications, and data. Working as an architectural peer alongside Domain Architects in Networks, Platforms, Data, and End-User Computing (EUC), you will ensure security is embedded collaboratively from inception.
In Higher Education, security cannot operate in a silo or rely on rigid textbook policies and multi-million-pound tooling budgets; this role requires an embedded, delivery-focused architect who makes proportionate, risk-managed design decisions across a diverse academic and enterprise environment. This role would suit an experienced Security Architect, Solutions Architect, Technical Architect or senior security professional looking to influence strategic technology decisions within a large and complex organisation.
You will act as a key delivery enabler moving security 'shift-left' by co-authoring reusable reference architectures, zero-trust patterns, and lightweight guardrails for agile project and product teams. You will also lead architectural resilience against ransomware threats, design business-layer disaster recovery, and drive compliance with Cyber Essentials Plus and other appropriate standards.
To be successful in this role you will be an experienced architecture professional with a strong understanding of cyber security principles, security governance and enterprise technology. You will be comfortable working with both technical and non-technical stakeholders and capable of translating security requirements into practical, proportionate solutions that support organisational objectives.
You will be qualified to degree level (or equivalent senior professional standard) in Computer Science, Cyber Security, or a related IT discipline, with extensive experience designing and assuring security architectures across cloud (Azure/M365), hybrid, and SaaS environments. Experience of identity and access management, security risk assessment, threat modelling and security governance is essential. You must be able to demonstrate practical depth in Identity and Access Management (IAM/PAM), threat modelling, and security-by-design principles. The ability to translate technical risk into clear business context for senior academic and professional stakeholders is also an essential requirement.
Desirable requirements: Relevant professional security or architecture certifications (e.g., CISSP, TOGAF, SABSA, Microsoft Security certifications) and prior experience working within Higher Education, the public sector, or another complex regulated environment would also be advantageous.
About Digital at Canterbury Christ Church University: Digital Services has recently undergone a significant transformation to create dedicated Digital Services, Digital Products, Digital Security and Digital Solutions functions. We are investing in modern digital platforms, identity services, enterprise architecture, data capabilities, automation and service management to support the University's Vision 2030 ambitions. You will join a collaborative architecture team working across major initiatives including identity modernisation, enterprise service management, data platform development, AI adoption, security improvement programmes and large-scale institutional transformation projects.
How will you work? We are committed to supporting flexible methods of working wherever possible. Campus attendance will vary on a day-to-day basis and across the year but must purposefully align to the needs of our students, staff, and stakeholders. It is expected that there will be a relatively even balance between time spent on and off campus; but in most cases the work location will be determined by the service required or the tasks/activities being undertaken.
How to apply: Start date for applications: 22/09/26. Closing date for applications: 26/10/26. Interviews are to be held: w/c 2/11/26. If you require further information regarding the post please feel free to contact marco.orlando@canterbury.ac.uk (strictly no agencies, thank you) quoting reference number JOB REF REQ06462. Please note, Canterbury Christ Church University reserve the right to bring the closing date of this position forward where a high volume of applications is received.
Benefits of Working at CCCU: Canterbury Christ Church University is located in the world-famous Cathedral city amongst stunning history and heritage. Canterbury is a thriving international destination, with many students and staff choosing to study and work here, making this historic, cosmopolitan city vibrant and culturally diverse. Our staff enjoy competitive salaries and a great working environment with a number of benefits ranging from the occupational pension scheme to use of the University’s facilities including the library and fitness centre. We are strongly committed to equality and recognise the value of a diverse workforce. We offer generous holiday entitlements plus eight bank and public holidays, as well as discretionary days over the Christmas period.
Additional Information: Canterbury Christ Church University truly welcomes fresh perspectives and new voices. We want you to bring the real you to work, so we are committed to building a genuinely inclusive working environment where everyone is welcomed and where everyone can have a true sense of belonging. Our spirit of community will help us to eliminate discrimination and will enable us all to thrive in a culture that is underpinned by fairness and justice. We therefore seek people to join us who will proactively support and shape this aim and contribute in their own unique way. If this is you, then we are waiting to hear from you.
#yourCCCU Our University is deeply committed to shaping sustainable futures as a key part of its mission and values. If you share this passion, we encourage you to join us in making CCCU a more socially and environmentally conscious, sustainable place to study and work.
Employment Visa Clarification: According to the UK Government Points Based System, this position may not fulfil the requirements for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Route application. Please note applications must be made online via the University website; details sent directly via email cannot be considered. Prior consideration will be given to applicants in the University’s redeployment pool. No agencies, thank you. For more information about this role, please view the job description via the attachments link above.
Location: Canterbury.
Digital Solutions Architect (Cyber Security) in Canterbury employer: CCCU
Canterbury Christ Church University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture in the historic city of Canterbury. With a strong commitment to employee growth, competitive salaries, and generous benefits including a robust pension scheme and access to university facilities, staff are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. Join our collaborative architecture team to make a meaningful impact on digital security while enjoying the rich cultural diversity and community spirit that this renowned institution fosters.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Digital Solutions Architect (Cyber Security) in Canterbury
✨Get Involved in the Cybersecurity Community
Diving into the cybersecurity community is key for landing that full-time gig. Join forums like Reddit's r/cybersecurity or attend local meetups to connect with industry veterans and other job seekers. Networking is everything in this field—don’t just be a passive lurker!
✨Show Off Your Skills with Capture the Flag Competitions
Participate in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions; these are not just a fun way to boost your skills but also a chance to showcase your talent to potential employers. Many companies, including CCCU, love seeing candidates who actively engage in these challenges.
✨Tailor Your Online Presence
Make sure your LinkedIn and any professional profiles reflect your cybersecurity expertise. Share your projects, whether they’re personal or from a previous role, to catch the eye of hiring managers. This is how they’ll find your passion and commitment to the field!
✨Apply Directly Through CCCU
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at CCCU. Applying directly can sometimes give you an edge, especially if you can mention that you've been following our work or engaging in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Digital Solutions Architect (Cyber Security) in Canterbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your technical skills:In cybersecurity, it's crucial to highlight your technical prowess. Make sure your CV showcases specific skills like network security, penetration testing, or threat analysis. If you have relevant certifications (like CEH or CISSP), pop those on the front page to grab attention!
Tailor your portfolio for the role:Even for a full-time role, a portfolio can set you apart. If you've worked on any cybersecurity projects—be it CTF challenges, security assessments, or research papers—include these in your application. This demonstrates not just your skills, but also your hands-on experience!
Use real-world examples:When writing your cover letter, don’t just stick to your qualifications. Share real-world examples of how you’ve tackled security issues or vulnerabilities. This gives the hiring team at CCCU insight into your practical problem-solving abilities and makes your application memorable.
Demonstrate your passion for cybersecurity:Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, so show us that you’re always learning! Mention any recent courses, webinars, or industry events you’ve attended. This not only exhibits your enthusiasm but also signals to CCCU that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at CCCU
✨Sharpen Your Technical Skills
For a role in cybersecurity, it’s essential to be up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you’ve applied these skills, as hands-on experience can really set us apart in interviews.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect the interviewers at CCCU to throw in some hypothetical situations to see how you’d handle them. Think about common security breaches or incidents and be prepared to explain how you would respond. This not only shows your problem-solving skills but also your understanding of real-world cybersecurity challenges.
✨Highlight Your Certifications
Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH can give you a significant edge in a full-time role in cybersecurity. Make sure to mention these during your interview and be prepared to discuss what you learned through those certifications and how they relate to the position at CCCU.
✨Show Your Passion for Cybersecurity
Since you’re going for a full-time gig, showing genuine enthusiasm for the field can make all the difference. Share any personal projects, blogs, or communities you’re part of that relate to cybersecurity. This not only showcases your passion but also your commitment to staying engaged in this ever-evolving field.
