Lead Security Architect - Remote Operations

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 2,953,000 - 4,430,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation

Stock options

Remote-friendly environment

Professional development budget

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Security Architect to establish and drive the security architecture strategy. This remote-first role aligns with Durban, ZA operations while enabling global collaboration to protect data and IP.

You will define standards, blueprints, and risk models, mentor security engineers, and guide security across all technology domains. Exceptional communication and leadership are essential in this high-impact, remote-ready position.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related field.
• 10+ years of information security experience with focus on security architecture and design.
• Proven track record designing security for cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Deep understanding of networking, cryptography, IAM, and data security.
• Experience with security frameworks (NIST CSF, ISO 27001, SOC 2).
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and influence stakeholders.
• Excellent strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to present complex tech clearly.
• Certifications such as CISSP-ISSAP, SABSA, or TOGAF are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of enterprise security architecture across cloud, on-premises, and hybrid environments.
• Define security requirements and translate business needs into robust solutions.
• Develop and maintain security architecture blueprints, standards, and guidelines.
• Conduct architectural reviews and provide security guidance for new projects.
• Evaluate and recommend new security technologies and platforms.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and compliance to embed security in SDLC.
• Mentor security engineers and analysts; foster security excellence.
• Develop threat models and risk assessments for critical systems.
• Represent the security function in strategic planning and cross-department initiatives.
• Stay current with threats, vulnerabilities, and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Security architecture

Cloud security

IAM

NIST CSF

ISO 27001

SOC 2

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Threat modeling

Education

Master's degree in Computer Science or Cybersecurity

Tools

AWS

Azure

GCP

SOC 2

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneer in cloud-native solutions, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Security Architect to establish and drive their security architecture strategy. This role is crucial for designing and implementing secure, scalable, and resilient systems that protect our intellectual property and client data. As a fully remote position, this opportunity is ideal for a candidate based anywhere, with primary alignment to our operations in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA . You will be a key player in defining our security roadmap, standards, and best practices, ensuring they are woven into the fabric of our technological ecosystem. This remote-first role requires exceptional communication and collaboration skills, leveraging digital platforms to engage with cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and leadership. You will be responsible for architecting cutting-edge security solutions that address complex challenges in a rapidly evolving threat landscape. Your leadership will guide the security direction of our organization, making this a high-impact and rewarding career path. Embrace the flexibility of remote work while shaping the future of cybersecurity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of enterprise-level security architecture across all technology domains, including cloud, on-premises, and hybrid environments.
• Define security requirements and principles, translating business needs into robust security solutions.
• Develop and maintain security architecture blueprints, standards, and guidelines.
• Conduct architectural reviews and provide security guidance for new projects and initiatives.
• Evaluate and recommend new security technologies and platforms to enhance our security capabilities.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and compliance teams to ensure security is integrated throughout the system development lifecycle.
• Mentor and guide security engineers and analysts, fostering a culture of security excellence.
• Develop and maintain effective threat models and risk assessments for critical systems.
• Represent the security architecture function in strategic planning and cross-departmental initiatives.
• Stay current with emerging security threats, vulnerabilities, and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Master's degree or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in information security, with a significant focus on security architecture and design.
• Proven experience designing and implementing security for cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Deep understanding of networking, cryptography, identity and access management (IAM), and data security.
• Experience with security frameworks such as NIST CSF, ISO 27001, and SOC 2.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and influence stakeholders.
• Excellent strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Professional security certifications such as CISSP-ISSAP, SABSA, or TOGAF are highly desirable.
• Experience working in a fully remote or distributed team environment is essential.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package, including an executive-level salary, performance bonuses, stock options, and comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• Enjoy the unparalleled flexibility of a fully remote role, allowing you to work from your preferred location.
• Professional development budgets, opportunities for leadership training, and a platform to influence strategic security decisions are provided.
• Become part of a forward-thinking company that prioritizes innovation and employee empowerment in a truly global, remote setting, contributing significantly to our client's success from anywhere.