At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead security architecture and assurance for Defence programmes, ensuring robust cyber security solutions.
- Company: PwC, a leader in Cyber, Data & Technology Resilience with a focus on Defence.
- Benefits: Flexible working, private medical cover, virtual GP access, and volunteering days.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of cyber security in Defence and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in security architecture and MOD governance, with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
About The Role PwC’s Cyber, Data & Technology Resilience practice works at the intersection of national security, critical infrastructure protection, and enterprise risk. We advise governments, Defence organisations, and their supply chains on complex cyber security challenges that require specialist expertise and experience. Defence is a key growth priority for PwC UK. As demand continues to expand, we are looking for experienced leaders to help shape and deliver cyber security solutions across large-scale Defence programmes, strengthening resilience across mission-critical systems and sensitive environments.
As a Senior Manager, you will lead security architecture and assurance workstreams within major Defence engagements. You will design how security operates across complex environments—from classified cloud platforms to operational military systems—ensuring alignment with MOD security governance and enabling successful programme delivery. This is a highly visible, client-facing role combining technical leadership, delivery ownership, and stakeholder engagement.
What Your Days Will Look Like
- Lead security architecture design across Defence programmes, defining controls, patterns, and governance for systems operating at OFFICIAL, SECRET and above
- Own and drive Secure by Design assurance activities throughout the programme lifecycle
- Lead accreditation and assurance processes, including security cases, risk assessments, and MOD-aligned documentation
- Advise senior programme stakeholders on security risk and trade-offs, translating technical issues into business decisions
- Manage relationships with MOD security authorities, CISOs, and accreditors
- Lead delivery teams across security workstreams within large transformation programmes
- Contribute to bids and proposals, bringing technical credibility and real-world delivery insight
- Mentor and develop Managers and Senior Associates within the team
This Role Is For You If
- You have experience in security architecture within Defence or Central Government environments, including systems operating at OFFICIAL-SENSITIVE or above
- You understand MOD security governance, including Secure by Design, JSP 440, JSP 604, and accreditation processes
- You bring experience across Defence environments such as classified cloud, cross-domain solutions, identity, and network segmentation
- You have delivered within large-scale programmes, with understanding of enterprise architecture, programme governance, and multi-vendor environments
- You demonstrate strong leadership, including stakeholder engagement, team management, and high-quality security documentation, supported by relevant certifications (e.g. CISSP, CCP, TOGAF or equivalent)
What You’ll Receive From Us
No matter where you may be in your career or personal life, our benefits are designed to add value and support, recognising and rewarding you fairly for your contributions. We offer a range of benefits including empowered flexibility and a working week split between office, home and client site; private medical cover and 24/7 access to a qualified virtual GP; six volunteering days a year and much more.
Senior Manager - Security Architecture & Assurance in Belfast employer: PwC UK
PwC is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee growth and well-being. With a focus on empowering flexibility, our team enjoys a balanced working week across office, home, and client sites, alongside comprehensive benefits such as private medical cover and opportunities for volunteering. As a leader in the Cyber, Data & Technology Resilience practice, you will be at the forefront of shaping cyber security solutions within Defence, ensuring meaningful contributions to national security while advancing your career in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Manager - Security Architecture & Assurance in Belfast
✨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 PwC UK, 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 PwC UK
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at PwC UK. 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 Senior Manager - Security Architecture & Assurance in Belfast
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 PwC UK 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 PwC UK that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at PwC UK
✨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 PwC UK 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 PwC UK.
✨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.
