Principal Security Architect in London

Principal Security Architect in London

London Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Sanderson Recruitment

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the creation of a new Security Architecture and Engineering capability.
  • Company: Join NHBC, a leader in digital transformation and cyber security.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, hybrid work, and excellent benefits.
  • Other info: Opportunity for long-term career growth in a dynamic environment.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of security and influence enterprise-wide technology strategy.
  • Qualifications: Strong technical expertise in security architecture and cloud security.

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

Milton Keynes / London (Hybrid - 2 Days Per Week)

£81,000 - £90,000 + 15% Bonus + Excellent Benefits

Are you a Security Architect who wants to build something rather than inherit it? We're supporting NHBC as they embark on an exciting business-wide digital transformation, creating a brand-new Security Architecture & Engineering capability as part of a newly approved Cyber Security strategy. This is a rare opportunity to work directly alongside the CISO, helping define the future of security across a large enterprise while influencing architecture, cloud strategy and secure engineering from day one.

This isn't a role where you'll simply maintain existing controls. You'll play a key part in shaping security architecture, embedding secure-by-design principles, driving DevSecOps adoption and helping build a modern security function supporting one of the UK's most ambitious technology transformation programmes.

The Opportunity

The organisation is undergoing a significant digital transformation, with major investment across cloud, AI, digital platforms and enterprise technology. Working closely with the CISO, Chief Architects and Engineering teams, you'll define the long-term security architecture, influence technology strategy and ensure security is embedded across every stage of technology delivery. As the function grows, you'll also help establish the Security Engineering capability, providing technical leadership while helping shape the future team.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Defining and evolving the enterprise security architecture
  • Developing the long-term security technology roadmap
  • Driving secure-by-design principles across enterprise programmes
  • Embedding DevSecOps practices into engineering teams
  • Working closely with Architecture Design Authority and senior technology stakeholders
  • Providing architectural assurance across cloud, infrastructure and business change initiatives
  • Designing scalable security standards, patterns and control frameworks
  • Supporting cloud transformation and future AI initiatives
  • Leading technical security decisions across enterprise platforms
  • Helping build and mature the Security Engineering capability as the team grows

What We're Looking For

We're looking for someone who combines strong technical expertise with strategic thinking. You'll likely have experience across:

  • Enterprise Security Architecture
  • Cloud Security (Azure and/or AWS)
  • Secure-by-Design
  • DevSecOps
  • Security Engineering
  • Security Governance
  • Enterprise Architecture
  • Technical Leadership
  • Security Roadmaps
  • Security Standards & Control Frameworks
  • Risk & Design Assurance
  • Stakeholder Management at senior level

Why Join?

This is one of the most influential security hires within the organisation's newly established Cyber Security function. You'll have the opportunity to:

  • Work directly with the CISO
  • Influence enterprise-wide technology strategy
  • Build a modern Security Architecture function
  • Drive cloud security and DevSecOps transformation
  • Shape how security is embedded across future digital products
  • Join during a period of significant investment and organisational change
  • Rather than maintaining an established environment, you'll have genuine ownership in building the future security capability.

Package

£81,000 - £90,000 (flexibility for exceptional candidates)

15% Performance Bonus

Hybrid Working (2 days per week)

Milton Keynes or London office

Excellent benefits package

Long-term career progression within a growing Cyber Security function

Reasonable Adjustments: Respect and equality are core values to us. We are proud of the diverse and inclusive community we have built, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. Our success is driven by our people, united by the spirit of partnership to deliver the best resourcing solutions for our clients. If you need any help or adjustments during the recruitment process for any reason, please let us know when you apply or talk to the recruiters directly so we can support you.

Principal Security Architect in London employer: Sanderson Recruitment

Join a forward-thinking organisation that values diversity and inclusion, offering a dynamic work culture where your expertise in tax can truly shine. As the Head of Tax, you will not only lead a talented team but also play a pivotal role in shaping the tax strategy across North West Europe, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Enjoy a collaborative environment that prioritises employee well-being and fosters meaningful contributions to the business's long-term success.

Sanderson Recruitment

Contact Details:

Sanderson Recruitment Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Security Architect in London

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 Sanderson Recruitment, 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 Sanderson Recruitment

Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at Sanderson Recruitment. 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 Security Architect in London

Enterprise Security Architecture
Cloud Security (Azure and/or AWS)
Secure-by-Design
DevSecOps
Security Engineering
Security Governance
Technical Leadership

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 Sanderson Recruitment 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 Sanderson Recruitment that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.

How to prepare for a job interview at Sanderson Recruitment

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 Sanderson Recruitment 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 Sanderson Recruitment.

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.