Principal Information Security Architect

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,600,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity options

Performance bonuses

Executive benefits

Paid time off

Professional development

Stellenbosch leadership role

Executive allowances

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Information Security Architect in Stellenbosch, Western Cape to lead enterprise security architecture across cloud, on-premises, and hybrid environments.

You will set strategic direction for security technology adoption, mentor architects, and advise executives on risks and opportunities.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related technical discipline.
• 12+ years in information security, with at least 7 years in senior architecture or principal engineering roles.
• Extensive experience designing and implementing enterprise-scale security architectures.
• Deep expertise across cloud security, network security, cryptography, IAM, app security, and threat intel.
• Evidence of leading enterprise security strategies and standards; CISSP-ISSAP or SABSA are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Define and maintain the organization's information security architecture strategy and roadmap.
• Design secure, scalable solutions for cloud platforms, hybrid environments, and on-premises infra.
• Lead security standards and best practices across the enterprise.
• Evaluate and select new security technologies and components.
• Provide guidance on security architecture principles, threat modeling, and risk management.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Enterprise security architecture

Cloud security

Threat modeling

Communication skills

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science or Information Security

Tools

DevSecOps tooling

Infrastructure as Code (IaC)

Security automation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering technology firm with a global reach, is seeking a distinguished Principal Information Security Architect to establish and lead their advanced security architecture initiatives from Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This senior-level role is instrumental in designing, implementing, and evolving the company's complex security architecture across cloud, on-premises, and hybrid environments. You will be responsible for setting the strategic direction for security technology adoption, ensuring robust protection of critical assets, and advising executive leadership on security risks and opportunities. The ideal candidate is a recognized expert in the cybersecurity field with a proven ability to architect enterprise-grade security solutions, drive innovation, and mentor other architects. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of security for a forward-thinking organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and maintain the organization's overall information security architecture strategy and roadmap.
• Design secure, scalable, and resilient solutions for cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), hybrid environments, and on-premises infrastructure.
• Establish and enforce security standards, patterns, and best practices across the enterprise.
• Lead the evaluation and selection of new security technologies and architectural components.
• Provide expert guidance on security architecture principles, threat modeling, and risk management.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and business teams to ensure security is integrated throughout the system development lifecycle.
• Architect solutions for identity and access management, data protection, network security, and application security.
• Mentor and guide senior security architects and engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Represent the security architecture function in cross-functional initiatives and strategic planning.
• Stay ahead of emerging threats and technological advancements impacting enterprise security.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related technical discipline.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in information security, with a minimum of 7 years in a senior architecture or principal engineering role.
• Extensive experience designing and implementing complex, enterprise-scale security architectures, particularly in cloud-native environments.
• Deep expertise in security domains including cloud security, network security, cryptography, IAM, application security, and threat intelligence.
• Proven track record of defining and implementing enterprise security strategies and standards.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and influence strategic decisions.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with technical and executive audiences.
• Deep understanding of security frameworks (NIST CSF, ISO 27001) and regulatory compliance landscapes.
• Experience with security automation, DevSecOps, and infrastructure-as-code is highly valued.
• Relevant industry-recognized certifications (e.g., CISSP-ISSAP, SABSA) are a strong requirement.

Benefits

• Industry-leading compensation package and equity options.
• Significant performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive executive benefits, including premium health, retirement, and life insurance.
• Generous paid time off and sabbatical opportunities.
• Substantial budget for continuous professional development, conferences, and research.
• Opportunity to define and lead the security architecture for a globally recognized technology leader in Stellenbosch, Western Cape .
• Executive-level perks and allowances.