Pre-Sales Architect (Cyber Security/ Microsoft)

CGI Group Inc.; Reading; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in the UK is seeking a Microsoft pre-sales cyber security specialist to connect client needs with service offerings. Responsibilities include engaging clients in the sales cycle, delivering product demonstrations, and ensuring solutions are technically sound. Applicants should have proven experience in MSSP and a strong understanding of SIEM, EDR technologies, and Microsoft Sentinel. UK Security Clearance is required.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a pre-sales, solutions architect, or technical consultancy role within an MSSP.
• Hands-on expertise with SIEM and EDR tooling, particularly Microsoft Sentinel.
• Sound understanding of SOC operations and broader MSS offerings.

Responsibilities

• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, engaging in the sales cycle to understand their security challenges.
• Take ownership of the technical content in proposals, RFIs, and RFP responses.
• Work closely with SOC team to ensure feasibility of proposed solutions.

Skills

Client Engagement

Solution Design

Communication Skills

Technical Presentations

Stakeholder Engagement

Tools

SIEM

EDR

Microsoft Sentinel

Job description

CGI are seeking a Microsoft pre-sales, cyber security, specialist to bridge the gap between our client's needs and our service offerings. The successful candidate will bring real-world experience from within an MSSP and have proven relationships within Microsoft.

The role will initially focus on our Intelligence-led SOC and move into security services from within the Microsoft technology stack. Due to the secure nature of the programme, you will need to hold UK Security Clearance or be eligible to go through this clearance.

Candidate Profile

• Client Engagement & Solution Design: Act as a trusted advisor to clients, engaging early in the sales cycle to understand their security challenges and business goals.
• Lead solution scoping sessions and workshops, shaping bespoke MSS solutions aligned to client needs.
• Design and propose services across our portfolio, with particular focus on Microsoft Sentinel.
• Deliver tailored product demonstrations, technical deep-dives, and client presentations that clearly articulate value.

Proposal Development & RFP Responses

• Take ownership of the technical content in proposals, RFIs, and RFP responses, ensuring solutions are clearly documented and commercially sound.
• Collaborate with Bid Teams to develop winning strategies and compelling service narratives.
• Maintain a library of reusable technical artefacts and boilerplate responses.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with our SOC team to ensure feasibility of proposed solutions and alignment to current capability.
• Provide feedback to product and delivery teams based on market insights and evolving client expectations.

Market & Technology Insight

• Maintain a current and deep understanding of the MSS and SOC landscape, especially in relation to SIEM, SOAR, and EDR technologies.
• Stay on top of competitor positioning to help differentiate CGI's offering effectively in the market.
• Feed insights back into marketing and proposition development to help shape future offerings.

Requirements:

• Proven experience in a pre-sales, solutions architect, or technical consultancy role within a Managed Security Services Provider (MSSP).
• Hands-on expertise with SIEM and EDR tooling, particularly Microsoft Sentinel.
• Sound understanding of SOC operations and broader MSS offerings.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, comfortable presenting to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Key Performance Indicators:

• Win rate on MSS opportunities supported.
• RFP response quality and conversion rate.
• Quality and timeliness of proposals and SoWs.
• Client satisfaction and feedback during pre-sales engagements.

Behavioural Competencies:

• Commercially aware with a strong customer orientation.
• Confident communicator with the ability to simplify the complex.
• Team player who thrives in a collaborative environment.
• Detail-driven and methodical, especially under time pressure.