At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of complex cyber security solutions and mentor a team of Solution Architects.
- Company: Join NCC Group, a leader in cyber security with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holiday allowance, and comprehensive health benefits.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and involvement in community volunteering programmes.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cyber security while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in cyber security solutions and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
The Principal Solution Architect is a senior technical role within NCC Group’s Sales Engineering & Field Strategy team, responsible for shaping and delivering complex, high‑value cyber security solutions across both professional and managed services. This role serves as a technical authority and strategic partner to clients, translating business challenges into secure, scalable, and commercially viable solutions. In addition to leading solution design and client engagements, the Principal Solution Architect plays a key role in mentoring and developing the wider team of Solution Architects. They provide technical guidance, coaching, and quality assurance to ensure consistency, innovation, and excellence in solution delivery. Acting as a role model and escalation point, they foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and technical curiosity across the team. This role requires a blend of deep technical expertise, commercial awareness, and strong interpersonal skills to influence stakeholders, support sales activities, and drive the evolution of NCC Group’s service offerings in response to emerging threats and market demands.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the creation of technical solution designs and bid responses for large‑scale client opportunities, integrating services across NCC Group’s offerings.
- Provide expert technical solution consultancy, including scope definition, approach, dependencies, assumptions, and cost modelling aligned with governance processes.
- Act as a senior technical advisor in client engagements, translating business needs into actionable cybersecurity solutions.
- Collaborate with Sales, Delivery, and Product Management teams to ensure alignment of proposed solutions with client requirements and internal capabilities.
- Own the quality assurance of client‑facing documentation, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and technical integrity.
- Mentor and support Solution Architects, acting as a technical escalation point.
- Identify market trends and gaps to inform service development and maintain competitive advantage.
- Contribute to account planning and opportunity development, supporting strategic growth initiatives.
- Deliver internal training and briefings on NCC Group services, research, and intellectual property.
- Represent NCC Group at client meetings, conferences, and industry events, occasionally requiring national travel.
Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
- Proven experience in designing and delivering complex cyber security solutions in a pre‑sales or consulting capacity.
- Strong understanding of network architecture, IT infrastructure, cloud platforms (Azure, AWS), and emerging technologies.
- Deep knowledge of cybersecurity threats, threat actors, and mitigation strategies.
- Familiarity with penetration testing methodologies and outcomes.
- Demonstrable experience with at least two of the following frameworks: NIST, ISO 27001, PCI DSS, CIS Controls.
- Strong commercial acumen with the ability to balance client needs and profitability.
- Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present technical content to non‑technical audiences and senior stakeholders.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and technical documentation tools.
- Relevant certifications such as CISM, CISSP, CCSP, or equivalent demonstrable expertise.
Desired Requirements
- Experience in integrating cybersecurity solutions into enterprise environments.
- Understanding of compliance and regulatory requirements across different sectors.
- Exposure to managed security services and operational security models.
- Experience working with international clients and multi‑region solution deployments.
- Knowledge of in‑region cyber security regulations, compliance and privacy frameworks.
Job Benefits
- Flexible Working: Balance your work and personal life with our flexible working options.
- Generous Holiday Allowance: Enjoy 25 days of holiday, plus bank holidays, with the option to buy up to 5 additional days of annual leave.
- Medicash & Critical Illness Scheme Financial & Investment Benefits: Enjoy peace of mind with our Pension, Life Assurance, and Share Save Scheme.
- Community & Volunteering Programmes: Make a difference in your community with our volunteering opportunities.
- Green Car Scheme: Drive green and save money with our eco‑friendly car scheme.
- Cycle Scheme: Stay fit and healthy with our cycle‑to‑work scheme.
- Special Time Off: Take time off for those big moments in life, like getting married/entering into a civil partnership, becoming a grandparent, and welcoming home a new pet.
- Family Planning: Benefit from our generous maternity and paternity leave, as well as time off and support for those undergoing fertility treatments.
Principal Solution Architect in Manchester employer: NCC Group plc
NCC Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Manchester that prioritises both high performance and employee well-being. With a strong focus on professional development, the Principal Solution Architect role provides opportunities for mentorship and collaboration within a culture of continuous improvement, while generous benefits such as flexible working, extensive holiday allowances, and community engagement initiatives ensure a fulfilling work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Solution Architect in Manchester
✨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 NCC Group plc, 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 NCC Group plc
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at NCC Group plc. 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 Principal Solution Architect in Manchester
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 NCC Group plc 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 NCC Group plc that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at NCC Group plc
✨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 NCC Group plc 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 NCC Group plc.
✨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.
