Information Security Architect

Overview

In this role you will design and deliver security solutions aligned to Howdens’ business goals and cyber risk strategy. You’ll influence security across infrastructure, cloud, and applications, collaborating with cross-functional teams to balance business needs with security requirements. You will lead and support secure, scalable architecture initiatives and drive continuous improvement through security reviews. The role offers exposure to procurement, implementation, and operational handover, contributing to resilient and compliant digital solutions. This opportunity is anchored in Howdens’ growth and focus on secure, future-ready technology.

Pay / Benefits

• competitive salary
• annual company bonus
• pension scheme with company contribution up to 12%
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• staff discount
• Employee Assistance Programme

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver security solutions aligned with business goals and cyber risk strategy
• Provide security architecture input across infrastructure, cloud, and application projects
• Collaborate with stakeholders to balance business needs, technical constraints, and security requirements
• Lead and support solution design and re-architecture to ensure security, maintainability, and scalability
• Conduct security architecture reviews to identify risks and drive improvement
• Support evaluation and procurement of security technologies aligned with standards
• Work with Cyber SMEs and Enterprise Architecture to ensure a joined-up security approach
• Promote information security best practices and support policy compliance

Key requirements

• Strong information security experience with an architectural focus
• Ability to influence and translate security requirements into practical solutions
• Knowledge of lateral movement risks, network segmentation, and endpoint security
• Experience with Windows and Linux operating systems
• Understanding of protocol analysis, network architecture, and infrastructure design
• Experience leading full lifecycle of solutions from design to deployment and handover
• Recognised Cyber Security qualification (CISSP, CISM, or equivalent)
• Knowledge of ISO27001, PCI DSS, and Zero Trust
• Strong communication skills to influence colleagues at all levels
• Ability to work with third-party suppliers and support change in a fast-paced environment

• strong communication
• influence across stakeholders
• collaboration with cross-functional teams
• security architecture
• infrastructure design
• cloud and on-premise security

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