Digital Solutions Architect (Cyber Security)

Canterbury Christ Church University; Canterbury; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Canterbury Christ Church University is seeking a Digital Solutions Architect (Cyber Security) to define and evolve the security architecture across identity, networks, platforms, applications, integrations and data. You will work with Digital Solutions Architects, Digital Products, Service Design, Digital Security and business stakeholders to embed security into service design from the outset.

The role suits an experienced security professional with a track record in cloud, on-premise and hybrid

Qualifications

• Experience designing security architectures across cloud, on-premise and hybrid environments.
• Experience with identity and access management, security risk assessment, threat modelling and security governance.
• Degree level in an IT-related discipline.

Responsibilities

• Define and evolve the University's security architecture across identity, networks, platforms, applications, integrations and data.
• Work with Digital Solutions Architects, Digital Products, Service Design, Digital Security and stakeholders to embed security into service design from the outset.
• Translate security requirements into practical, proportionate solutions.

Skills

Security architecture

Security governance

Identity management

Threat modelling

Education

Degree in IT-related discipline

Job description

Please note a full application including a covering letter detailing your experience alongside a CV is required for applications to be considered. Please be advised applications made without providing a cover letter will not be accepted.

Background of department/role

Help shape the future of cyber security architecture at Canterbury Christ Church University.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a newly transformed Digital function and play a leading role in designing secure, resilient and future‑ready digital services across the University.

As our Digital Solutions Architect (Cyber Security), you will be responsible for defining and evolving the University's security architecture across identity, networks, platforms, applications, integrations and data. Working closely with Digital Solutions Architects, Digital Products, Service Design, Digital Security and business stakeholders, you will ensure that security is embedded into the design and delivery of services from the outset.

This role would suit an experienced Security Architect, Solutions Architect, Technical Architect or senior security professional looking to influence strategic technology decisions within a large and complex organisation.

To be successful in this role you will be an experienced architecture professional with a strong understanding of cyber security principles, security governance and enterprise technology. You will be comfortable working with both technical and non‑technical stakeholders and capable of translating security requirements into practical, proportionate solutions that support organisational objectives.

You will be educated to degree level (or equivalent experience) in an IT‑related discipline and will have experience designing and implementing security architectures across cloud, on‑premise and hybrid environments. Experience of identity and access management, security risk assessment, threat modelling and security governance is essential.

Desirable requirements include experience within Higher Education or another regulated environment, familiarity with enterprise architecture frameworks, and relevant professional certifications such as CISSP, SABSA, TOGAF, Microsoft Security certifications or equivalent.

Digital Services has recently undergone a significant transformation to create dedicated Digital Services, Digital Products, Digital Security and Digital Solutions functions. We are investing in modern digital platforms, identity services, enterprise architecture, data capabilities, automation and service management to support the University's Vision 2030 ambitions.

You will join a collaborative architecture team working across major initiatives including identity modernisation, enterprise service management, data platform development, AI adoption, security improvement programmes and large‑scale institutional transformation projects.

How will you work?

We are committed to supporting flexible methods of working wherever possible. Campus attendance will vary on a day‑to‑day basis and across the year but must purposefully align to the needs of our students, staff, and stakeholders.

It is expected that there will be a relatively even balance between time spent on and off campus; but in most cases the work location will be determined by the service required or the tasks/activities being undertaken.

How to apply

Start date for applications: 20th of July 2026.

Closing date for applications: 21st of August 2026.

Interviews are to be held: w/c 31st of August 2026.

If you require further information regarding the post please feel free to contact [e-mail] (strictly no agencies, thank you) quoting reference number REQ06253.

Please note, Canterbury Christ Church University reserve the right to bring the closing date of this position forward where a high volume of applications is received.

Additional Information

Canterbury Christ Church University truly welcomes fresh perspectives and new voices. We want you to bring the real you to work, so we are committed to building a genuinely inclusive working environment where everyone is welcomed and where everyone can have a true sense of belonging. Our spirit of community will help us to eliminate discrimination and will enable us all to thrive in a culture that is underpinned by fairness and justice. We therefore seek people to join us who will proactively support and shape this aim and contribute in their own unique way. If this is you, then we are waiting to hear from you.

Our University is deeply committed to shaping sustainable futures as a key part of its mission and values. If you share this passion, we encourage you to join us in making CCCU a more socially and environmentally conscious, sustainable place to study and work.

Employment Visa Clarification: According to the UK Government Points Based System, this position may fulfil the requirements for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Route application.

Please note applications must be made online via the University website; details sent directly via email cannot be considered.

Prior consideration will be given to applicants in the University's redeployment pool. No agencies, thank you.

For more information about this role, please view the job description via the attachments link above.

Location

Canterbury.