Principal Information Security Architect

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 620,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive health benefits

Performance-based bonuses

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Principal Information Security Architect to lead the definition and evolution of the company’s global information security architecture from our Sandton, Gauteng offices. You will drive security standards across cloud, networks, applications, and data, mentor security teams, and partner with executive stakeholders to align security with business goals.

This leadership role demands strategic thinking, risk management, and a track record of delivering security

Qualifications

• Master's degree in computer science, information security or related field.
• 10+ years in information security with at least 5 in security architecture.
• Proven design and implementation of enterprise-scale security architectures.
• Strong knowledge of security domains: network, cloud, app, data, IAM.
• Experience with security frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001) and relevant regulations.
• Demonstrated leadership, communication, and stakeholder management.
• Certifications such as CISSP, CISSP-ISSAP, TOGAF are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of enterprise-wide information security architecture.
• Define security standards, policies, and best practices for infrastructure, apps, and cloud.
• Evaluate and recommend new security technologies to address threats and needs.
• Provide guidance on security architecture for cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), networks, and systems.
• Oversee security architecture reviews for major projects and initiatives.
• Develop security roadmaps and strategic plans to enhance the security posture.
• Collaborate with senior IT leadership, risk management, and stakeholders to meet requirements.
• Mentor and guide security engineering teams and architects.
• Stay current with industry trends, threats, and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Security architecture

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder management

Mentorship

Education

Master's degree in Computer Science or Information Security

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a multinational financial services corporation, is looking for a highly experienced and strategic Principal Information Security Architect to join their team in Sandton, Gauteng. This senior role is responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing the implementation of the company's global information security architecture. You will lead the development of security strategies, standards, and roadmaps to protect critical business systems and sensitive data from sophisticated threats. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in security architecture, a deep understanding of enterprise security frameworks, and exceptional leadership capabilities. This is a leadership position with significant influence over the company's security posture.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of enterprise-wide information security architecture, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Define security standards, policies, and best practices for infrastructure, applications, and cloud environments.
• Evaluate and recommend new security technologies and solutions to address emerging threats and business needs.
• Provide expert guidance on security architecture principles for cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), networks, and systems.
• Oversee security architecture reviews for major projects and initiatives.
• Develop security roadmaps and strategic plans to enhance the organization's security posture.
• Collaborate with senior IT leadership, risk management, and business stakeholders to ensure security requirements are met.
• Mentor and guide security engineering teams and architects.
• Stay current with industry trends, threats, and regulatory requirements impacting security architecture.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related technical discipline.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in information security, with at least 5 years in a dedicated security architecture role.
• Proven experience designing and implementing complex, enterprise-scale security architectures.
• Deep understanding of security domains including network security, cloud security, application security, data security, and identity and access management.
• Expertise in security frameworks such as NIST Cybersecurity Framework, ISO 27001, and relevant compliance regulations.
• Experience with security tools and technologies relevant to enterprise architecture.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Professional certifications such as CISSP, CISSP-ISSAP, TOGAF, or equivalent are highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, substantial performance-based bonuses, comprehensive executive health benefits, and significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership development. This role is based in the prime business district of Sandton, Gauteng, with a flexible hybrid work arrangement. You will have the opportunity to shape the security strategy of a leading global financial institution. Join a team of highly skilled professionals dedicated to innovation and security excellence.