Senior Security Operations Center (SOC) Manager

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid and retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior SOC Manager to lead a large-scale security operations center in a hybrid Port Elizabeth setting. The role focuses on threat detection, incident response, and continuous improvement of SOC processes.

You will mentor analysts, manage security tooling (SIEM, EDR, IDS/IPS), and coordinate with IT to safeguard the organization’s digital assets while staying current with industry threats and best practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years in cybersecurity operations, with at least 3 years in SOC leadership.
• Proven experience mentoring SOC analyst teams and managing 24/7 security operations.
• In-depth knowledge of SIEM, IDS/IPS, endpoint security, and network security technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the SOC team, providing direction and performance management.
• Oversee 24/7 security monitoring, threat detection, and incident response.
• Develop and refine SOC playbooks, SOPs, and process improvements.
• Collaborate with IT and security teams to integrate SOC with broader security strategy.

Skills

SOC leadership

Threat hunting

Incident response

Security operations

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s degree in CS/IT

Tools

SIEM

EDR

IDS/IPS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a large-scale retail corporation, is seeking an experienced Senior Security Operations Center (SOC) Manager to lead and enhance their SOC capabilities. This hybrid role, based in Port Elizabeth , will oversee the daily operations of the SOC, ensuring the effective detection, analysis, and response to cybersecurity threats. You will be instrumental in developing and implementing SOC strategies, managing a team of skilled analysts, and optimizing processes and technologies to protect the organization's digital assets across its extensive network in the Eastern Cape . This is a critical leadership position for a seasoned security operations professional.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Security Operations Center (SOC) team, providing direction, mentorship, and performance management.
• Oversee 24/7 security monitoring, threat detection, and incident response activities.
• Develop and refine SOC playbooks, processes, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Manage and optimize the deployment and effectiveness of security tools, including SIEM, IDS/IPS, EDR, and threat intelligence platforms.
• Ensure timely and accurate analysis and reporting of security incidents to relevant stakeholders.
• Conduct regular threat hunting exercises to proactively identify potential security breaches.
• Develop and deliver training programs for SOC analysts to enhance their skills and knowledge.
• Collaborate with other IT and security teams to integrate SOC operations into the broader security strategy.
• Stay current with the latest cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and defense techniques.
• Manage relationships with third-party security service providers.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in cybersecurity operations, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role within a SOC environment.
• Proven experience in managing and mentoring SOC analyst teams.
• In-depth knowledge of SIEM, IDS/IPS, endpoint security, and network security technologies.
• Strong understanding of incident response methodologies and threat analysis.
• Experience with threat hunting and vulnerability management.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and make critical decisions during security incidents.
• Relevant security certifications (e.g., CISSP, GIAC certifications) are highly desirable.
• Ability to work a hybrid schedule from our Port Elizabeth office.

Benefits

• competitive remuneration package, including a strong base salary, performance-based incentives, and comprehensive benefits such as medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and life insurance.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, including advanced training and certifications, are provided.
• This role operates on a Hybrid model, combining the benefits of office-based collaboration with remote work flexibility.

Contribute to protecting a major retail brand from cyber threats from our Port Elizabeth location in the Eastern Cape .