Lead Cybersecurity Analyst

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement planning

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Cybersecurity Analyst for an on-site role in Randburg, Gauteng. You will lead a security operations team responsible for detection, analysis, and responding to cyber threats, protecting sensitive data for the organization and its clients.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in cybersecurity with leadership experience, strong knowledge of NIST/ISO 27001, hands-on SIEM (Splunk/QRadar), IDS/IPS, firewalls and endpoint security, and excellent communication to drive

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in cybersecurity, with at least 3 years in a leadership or senior analyst role.
• Proven experience in security operations, incident response, and threat analysis.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity principles, frameworks (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001), and technologies.
• Hands-on experience with SIEM tools (e.g., Splunk, QRadar), IDS/IPS, firewalls, and endpoint security solutions.
• Strong understanding of network protocols, operating systems (Windows, Linux), and common attack vectors.
• Experience with forensic analysis and digital investigation techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Relevant certifications such as CISSP, CISM, GIAC, or CEH are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of cybersecurity analysts, providing guidance and oversight.
• Develop, implement, and refine security monitoring and incident response procedures.
• Analyze security alerts, logs, and network traffic to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities.
• Conduct threat hunting activities to proactively detect sophisticated threats.
• Manage and operate security tools and technologies, including SIEM, IDS/IPS, and endpoint detection solutions.
• Perform forensic analysis of security incidents to determine root causes and remediation steps.
• Stay current with the latest cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and industry best practices.
• Develop and deliver security awareness training to staff.
• Collaborate with IT and other departments to implement security controls and policies.
• Contribute to the development of the organization's overall cybersecurity strategy.

Skills

Leadership

Threat analysis

Incident response

Security monitoring

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity/CS/IT

Tools

Splunk

QRadar

IDS/IPS

Firewalls

Endpoint security

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading financial services institution, is seeking an experienced and highly vigilant Lead Cybersecurity Analyst to join their dedicated security operations team. This crucial on-site role based in Randburg, Gauteng, ZA , will be responsible for overseeing the detection, analysis, and response to cyber threats, ensuring the protection of sensitive company and customer data. You will lead a team of security analysts, developing and implementing advanced security strategies, conducting threat intelligence assessments, and managing incident response protocols. We are looking for a proactive leader with a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles, a strong analytical mindset, and proven experience in identifying and mitigating complex cyber risks. This is a challenging opportunity to play a vital role in safeguarding the organization against evolving cyber threats. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional leadership skills, a commitment to continuous learning, and a passion for maintaining a secure digital environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of cybersecurity analysts, providing guidance and oversight.
• Develop, implement, and refine security monitoring and incident response procedures.
• Analyze security alerts, logs, and network traffic to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities.
• Conduct threat hunting activities to proactively detect sophisticated threats.
• Manage and operate security tools and technologies, including SIEM, IDS/IPS, and endpoint detection solutions.
• Perform forensic analysis of security incidents to determine root causes and recommend remediation steps.
• Stay current with the latest cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and industry best practices.
• Develop and deliver security awareness training to staff.
• Collaborate with IT and other departments to implement security controls and policies.
• Contribute to the development of the organization's overall cybersecurity strategy.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in cybersecurity, with at least 3 years in a leadership or senior analyst role.
• Proven experience in security operations, incident response, and threat analysis.
• In-depth knowledge of cybersecurity principles, frameworks (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001), and technologies.
• Hands‑on experience with SIEM tools (e.g., Splunk, QRadar), IDS/IPS, firewalls, and endpoint security solutions.
• Strong understanding of network protocols, operating systems (Windows, Linux), and common attack vectors.
• Experience with forensic analysis and digital investigation techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Relevant certifications such as CISSP, CISM, GIAC, or CEH are highly desirable.

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid, life insurance, and retirement planning. Professional development is supported through advanced training programs and certifications. The company fosters a strong security-conscious culture. This position is based in Randburg, Gauteng, ZA , requiring full‑time on‑site presence.