Security Architecture Consultant

Cognitive Group | Part of the Focus Cloud Group; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Cognitive Group | Part of the Focus Cloud Group is a leading global consultancy specialising in digital transformation, technology innovation, and complex security architectures. The team works on quantum-safe security, cryptography, and secure digital transformation across public and private sector organisations.

The Security Architecture Consultant (Cryptography & Quantum Security) role is based in London, Bristol or Manchester with a hybrid working model.

Qualifications

• Experience in Security Architecture roles.
• Strong knowledge of cryptography, PKI, and key management.
• Ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Responsibilities

• Deliver security architecture and secure-by-design activities across client programmes.
• Provide advisory services relating to cryptography, PKI, and key management.
• Conduct PQC readiness assessments and support migration planning.
• Lead cryptographic discovery and inventory exercises.
• Support cloud, enterprise, and technology transformation programmes.
• Facilitate client workshops and engage with technical and business stakeholders.
• Contribute to methodologies, propositions, and thought leadership in cryptography and quantum security.

Skills

Applied cryptography

PKI & key management

Public key cryptography

Security assessments

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Job description

Our client is a leading global consultancy specialising in digital transformation, technology innovation, and complex business change. With a strong reputation for delivering impactful solutions across both public and private sector organisations, they combine deep technical expertise with strategic advisory capabilities to help clients address emerging challenges and opportunities.

As organisations begin preparing for the impact of quantum computing on existing security models, our client is investing heavily in quantum-safe security, cryptography, and secure digital transformation. This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting‑edge initiatives that help organisations understand quantum‑related risks, develop migration strategies, and build long‑term cryptographic resilience.

This is an excellent opportunity for a security architecture professional looking to specialise in an evolving area of cybersecurity while working alongside industry experts across security, emerging technologies, and critical infrastructure programmes.

About the Role

Security Architecture Consultant (Cryptography & Quantum Security)

Location: London, Bristol or Manchester (Hybrid Working)

• Type: Permanent, Full-Time


• Security Clearance: Active SC Clearance or eligibility to obtain SC Clearance required

You’ll support a range of client engagements focused on security architecture, cryptography, and quantum‑safe readiness, helping organisations assess current environments and prepare for future security challenges.

Responsibilities

• Deliver security architecture and secure‑by‑design activities across client programmes.


• Provide advisory services relating to cryptography, Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), and key management.


• Conduct post‑quantum cryptography (PQC) readiness assessments and support migration planning activities.


• Lead cryptographic discovery and inventory exercises.


• Support cloud, enterprise, and technology transformation programmes.


• Facilitate client workshops and engage with both technical and business stakeholders.


• Contribute to the development of methodologies, propositions, and thought leadership within the cryptography and quantum security space.


• Assist with business development activities, proposals, and client presentations.

Location & Security Requirements

• Candidates must be based in, or able to commute to, London, Bristol, or Manchester, as regular attendance at client sites and company offices will form part of the hybrid working arrangement.


• Due to the nature of the work, applicants must either hold active UK Security Clearance (SC) or be eligible to obtain SC Clearance.

Qualifications

• Previous experience within Security Architecture roles.

Required Skills

• Strong knowledge of applied cryptography, PKI, key management, or related cybersecurity disciplines.


• Understanding of public key cryptography, certificates, and digital trust services.


• Experience producing security assessments, recommendations, roadmaps, and technical documentation.


• Strong stakeholder management, consulting, and communication skills.


• Ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non‑technical audiences.

Preferred Skills

• Cloud security architecture.


• Identity and Access Management (IAM).


• DevSecOps practices and code‑signing implementations.


• Network security.


• Operational Technology (OT) or critical infrastructure environments.


• Large‑scale security transformation initiatives.


• Exposure to post‑quantum cryptography standards, migration programmes, or cryptographic agility strategies.


• Candidates with strong cryptography or security architecture backgrounds who are interested in developing expertise within quantum security are encouraged to apply, even if they have limited direct PQC experience.

Pay range and compensation package

What's on Offer

• Hybrid working model with access to offices in London, Bristol, and Manchester.


• Exposure to high‑profile public and private sector engagements.


• A highly collaborative and supportive consulting environment.


• Structured career development and professional growth opportunities.


• Access to industry‑recognised training and certifications.


• Exposure to cutting‑edge security, cryptography, and emerging technology projects.


• Opportunity to help shape solutions in one of the fastest‑growing areas of cybersecurity.


• Clear progression opportunities within both technical and consulting career pathways.

Required Skills (Relevant Certifications)

One or more of the following would be advantageous: