At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead security architecture for AI/ML in multi-cloud environments and ensure secure collaboration.
- Company: Join a leading UK Defence team focused on innovative security solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with mentorship opportunities and a focus on innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Active MOD SC clearance and experience in security architecture required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
You’ll own the security architecture and assurance roadmap for AI/ML delivery across multi-cloud and edge environments. You’ll ensure solutions align to UK Defence priorities and the client’s IT/cloud strategy, enabling secure multinational collaboration and repeatable, high-assurance releases (including high-side promotion pathways). You will lead the Secure by Design approach end-to-end.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead security architecture and delivery across multiple AI/ML trials and use cases
- Chair security working groups and support tri-nation collaboration
- Drive security visibility, outcomes, and senior stakeholder engagement
- Own threat and risk management, translating ambiguous requirements into stable controls
- Design classification-aware architectures: trust boundaries, data flows, and cross-domain guardrails
- Provide pragmatic security guidance for a complex programme (security as an enabler)
- Define and deliver the security roadmap across:
- DevSecOps operating model
- Policy-as-code and automated control enforcement
- Risk-based CI/CD gates and release assurance
- Govern supply chain security (artefact signing, SBOMs, provenance) using SLSA-style controls
- Improve delivery outcomes: reduced time-to-secure-release, reliable promotion checkpoints, efficient supplier onboarding, and clear exec-level risk reporting
- Mentor junior team members
Lead Security Architect employer: IO Associates
Join a leading engineering organisation that values innovation and excellence, offering a dynamic work culture where your contributions directly impact high-performance solutions in safety-critical environments. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have the opportunity to mentor fellow engineers and shape technical direction while working in an Agile/SAFe environment. Located in the UK, this role provides a unique chance to be part of cutting-edge projects in defence, aerospace, and industrial technology, ensuring a rewarding and meaningful career path.
