IT Architect

Purpose of Role

We are seeking a highly agile and skilled IT Architect to join our Group IT Shared Services Team. This role is a hybrid position, combining IT architecture, security operations, and risk management to ensure a secure, scalable, and efficient IT environment. The successful candidate will lead the design, implementation, and governance of IT security frameworks, while also architecting solutions that align with business objectives and industry best practices.

Objectives of Role

Key Responsibilities:

1. IT Architecture & Solutions Design

• Collaborate with stakeholders to define system requirements and business objectives.
• Oversee system integrations and enterprise architecture standards.
• Advocate enterprise-wide IT architecture strategies, ensuring scalability and performance.
• Evaluate, integrate, and optimise IT infrastructure, cloud solutions, and enterprise applications.
• Develop technology roadmaps and frameworks to align IT capabilities with business needs.

2. Cybersecurity & IT Risk Management Architecture

• Architect security controls, including firewalls, identity & access management, and encryption.
• Conduct risk assessments and vulnerability analysis, proactively addressing cybersecurity threats.
• Lead incident response strategies and develop business continuity plans.
• Ensure Zero Trust security principles are embedded into IT architecture.

3. IT Security Operations & Compliance

• Oversee security monitoring, threat detection, and response mechanisms.
• Manage security tools such as SIEM, endpoint protection, and network security solutions.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and internal IT governance frameworks.
• Perform penetration testing, security audits, and forensic investigations as needed.
• Collaborate with IT and business teams to enforce cybersecurity awareness training.

4. Cloud & Infrastructure Security

• Architect secure cloud-based solutions (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) with a focus on compliance and resilience.
• Implement secure networking strategies, including VPNs, SD-WAN, and zero-trust network access.
• Optimise cloud security posture through governance, automation, and compliance monitoring.

5. Innovation & Digital Transformation

• Evaluate emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, and automation for security improvements.
• Champion DevSecOps practices to integrate security into software development.
• Drive innovation in IT security and infrastructure to support business agility.

Experience and Qualifications

Education:

• Relevant degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Engineering or a related field.

• Certifications (Preferred but not mandatory): TOGAF, COBIT, CISSP, CISM, AWS/Azure Security, CEH.

Experience:

• Minimum 3 years in IT Architecture, IT Security, or IT Governance/Risk Management roles.

Technical Skills:

• Strong expertise in enterprise IT architecture and cloud solutions.
• Advanced knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks, threat management, and compliance.
• Experience with network security, IAM, and security automation.
• Hands-on experience with SIEM tools, firewalls, and endpoint protection.
• Familiarity with DevSecOps, CI/CD pipelines, and secure software development.

Competencies

• Strategic Thinking & Problem-Solving – Ability to design secure, scalable IT architectures.
• Cybersecurity Leadership – Expertise in enforcing security best practices.
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement – Strong communication with business and IT teams.
• Risk Management & Compliance Focus – Proactive approach to IT governance.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement – Passion for emerging security and IT technologies.