Lead Security Architect

Lead Security Architect

Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Henderson Scott

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead security architecture for AI/ML in a dynamic Defence environment.
  • Company: Join a forward-thinking team focused on secure technology solutions.
  • Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on mentorship and skill development.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in national security while advancing your career.
  • Qualifications: Active MOD SC clearance and experience in security architecture required.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

Lead Security Architect (Defence Dev Sec Ops and AI/ML)

Location: Portsmouth Working model: Remote 50% and 50% onsite Start date: approx. 24/08/2026 Duration: 23/11/2026 Rate: £640 to £700 inside IR35 through an FCSA approved umbrella Active MOD SC clearance and sole UK Nationality is required for consideration.

Mission: Own security architecture and the integration roadmap for AI/ML across multi-cloud and edge; align to client IT/cloud strategy and UK Defence priorities; enable secure multinational collaboration and high-side code promotions with repeatable assurance.

Manage the Secure by Design elements of the project and own the assurance process end to end.

Key Responsibilities Lead the Security elements of the program across different use cases for AI/ML development and trials.

Chair Security Working groups and tri-nation collaboration.

Manage security visibility and outcomes, manage senior stakeholder engagement.

Threat and risk management; translate ambiguous requirements into testable controls.

Define classification-aware architectures, trust boundaries, cross-domain data movement guardrails.

Provide Security guidance and controls for complex program.

Lead Security roadmap: Dev Sec Ops, policy-as-code controls, risk-based CI/CD gates.

Govern supply-chain security: artefact signing, SBOMs, provenance; adopt SLSA-style controls.

Reduced lead time to secure release; zero-critical promotion checkpoints; supplier onboarding efficiency; executive risk communication.

Mentor juniors Experience familiarity with UK guidance; at least MOD SC cleared and UK Sole national.

Certifications: CISSP (equivalent), TOGAF Key Attributes This role requires essential skills of adaptability and a pragmatic and positive attitude towards security as a business enabler, the technical skills and aptitudes can be learned from the team.

TPBN1_UKTJ

Henderson Scott

Contact Details:

Henderson Scott Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Lead Security Architect

Security Architecture
AI/ML Integration
Multi-cloud Security
DevSecOps
Risk Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Threat Modelling