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- Tasks: Lead security architecture and decisions to protect vital government services.
- Company: FCDO Services, dedicated to safeguarding the UK's interests globally.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, on-site gym, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with diverse teams and a commitment to personal growth.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team at the forefront of digital innovation and security.
- Qualifications: IS-related qualifications at NVQ Level 6 or equivalent and extensive security knowledge.
Location: Hanslope, South East England, MK19 7BH
At FCDO Services, we protect the UK's interests at home and overseas. We design and construct secure government buildings, courier diplomatic packages worldwide, safeguard government tech, and a whole lot more. Our work is as varied and vital as it gets, but we never lose sight of our people. Their skills, aspirations and growth mean as much as the global mission we're on.
Our Digital and Data technology team are at the forefront of digital innovation. They provide best in-class solutions for our clients, helping to shape and support a data driven future for UK government. Whether it's creating bespoke, secure software, offering programme and application support or moving an entire embassy's servers to a Cloud platform. No matter the task, they are on hand to support.
As a Lead Security Architect within the Cyber Security department, you'll be steering architecture and security decisions during a period of significant innovation and change driven by emerging cyber threats and the rise of Cloud and AI technologies. The role will have you working across diverse departments, business processes and large programmes of work - all while you identify potential security information risks associated with the acquisition, implementation and use of technologies. Keeping your focus on monitoring and mitigating risk, you'll recommend controls, audit tests - while also providing input on the development of security policies, system development lifecycles, secure coding practices, risk assessments, governance requirements and architecture for both FCDO Services and its customers.
Your leadership skills will help you thrive here. You'll be responsible for leading, coaching and developing a team of Security Information Risk Advisors - fostering a culture that supports high performance and continuous improvement. If you encounter a security breach, you will be the first to come up with solutions rooted in prevention and learning to foster a culture of continual improvement - guiding and advising management and promoting security awareness across the organisation at every step.
You will bring extensive knowledge of technical and security tools and techniques - supported with an IS-related qualification at NVQ Level 6 or equivalent. You will also be well-versed in everything from analysing proposals, technical documentation and designs, processes and practices to identifying security information and cyber vulnerabilities and risks - owing to the experience you've gained through previous roles.
On a personal as well as professional level, you'll be organised, collaborative, proactive and decisive - which translates to delivering at pace and to deadline. This is an exciting and varied role where you'll play a vital part in keeping the nation safe and secure, all while continuing to grow and develop your own expertise.
Working with us, you'll help keep people, information, and assets safe around the world. It's a role you can feel proud of; and we aim to make every part of your career just as rewarding. That’s why when you join us, expect to receive a competitive salary, flexible working to support work/life balance, attractive holiday entitlement and a Civil Service Pension. Along with this, you'll also have access to training and other development opportunities to help grow your career with us.
Every single colleague must be security cleared before joining us. If you're successful in your application, we'll ask you to undergo our vetting process to achieve Developed Vetting (DV) clearance.
We are looking for people with:
- IS related qualifications at NVQ Level 6 or equivalent, e.g. ISO 207001 Internal Auditor or Lead Implementer ISACA CRISC, ISC2 CISSP.
- Extensive knowledge of technical and security tools and techniques
- Experience analysing proposals, processes and practices and identifying security information risks
- Line management experience
- Strong influencing and interpersonal skills
- Able to produce clear technical documentation
We’ll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:
- Seeing the Big Picture
- Making Effective Decisions
- Delivering at Pace
We only ask for evidence of these technical skills on your application form:
- IS related qualifications at NVQ Level 6 or equivalent, e.g. ISO 207001 Internal Auditor or Lead Implementer ISACA CRISC, ISC2 CISSP.
- Extensive knowledge of technical and security tools and techniques
- Experience analysing proposals, processes and practices and identifying security information risks
- Able to produce clear technical documentation
Lead Security Architect - FCDO Services - SEO in Hanslope employer: Government Digital & Data
Contact Detail:
Government Digital & Data Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Security Architect - FCDO Services - SEO in Hanslope
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Lead Security Architect role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your previous work in security architecture. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your successes and how you've tackled challenges in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get ready for interviews by doing mock sessions with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your thought process when it comes to security risks and solutions. This will help you feel confident and prepared when it’s your turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our awesome benefits. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Security Architect - FCDO Services - SEO in Hanslope
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Lead Security Architect role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading a team, don’t forget to mention your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've motivated and developed others in previous roles – we want to see your engaging side!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate well-organised applications that get straight to the point without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our organisation there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Government Digital & Data
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge and security tools. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in cyber security, especially around Cloud and AI technologies. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just a candidate, but a potential leader in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Security Architect, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and motivate a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. Highlight your coaching style and how you foster a culture of continuous improvement.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about how you'd handle specific security breaches or risks. Think through potential scenarios and prepare your responses. This will help you articulate your problem-solving skills and your proactive approach to risk management.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong interpersonal skills are key for this role. Practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. This will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your ability to produce clear technical documentation, which is crucial for the job.