A leading UK university is seeking a Programme Security Architect to drive the design and implementation of advanced enterprise security solutions. This pivotal role sits at the heart of a strategic, multi-year Security & Risk Transformation Programme—where you’ll lead on the deployment of Microsoft’s security stack, including Defender, Sentinel, and Entra ID (formerly Azure AD), to enhance protection across complex hybrid environments.

What you’ll be doing
• Designing and delivering robust, scalable security architectures across cloud and on-premise systems.
• Leading the adoption of Microsoft-first security solutions aligned with business and technology strategies.
• Working closely with architecture, delivery, and security teams to ensure secure-by-design principles are embedded from the outset.
• Defining security roadmaps, frameworks, and governance to support long-term digital objectives.
• Translating complex requirements into practical, secure, and sustainable solutions.
• Mentoring teams on architecture best practice and secure systems development lifecycle (SSDLC) approaches.

What we’re looking for
• Significant experience in enterprise security architecture, ideally within complex or regulated environments.
• Deep knowledge of Microsoft Defender services, Sentinel, and identity platforms.
• Experience designing secure solutions in Azure and hybrid cloud environments.
• Familiarity with defence-in-depth strategies, Zero Trust, and security frameworks such as NIST or SABSA.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, able to influence at all levels.
• A collaborative, innovative mindset with a strong focus on outcomes and continuous improvement.

Desirable Certifications
• Microsoft: SC-100, SC-200, AZ-500
• Industry: CISSP, CISM, TOGAF or equivalent