What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cyber Security Architect position at The University of Manchester?
At the University of Manchester, our story is one of ambition, courage, and discovery. From Alan Turing’s pioneering work in computing to the breakthroughs in graphene, we’ve been at the forefront of innovation for two centuries.
In a time of unprecedented cyber challenges, we’re looking for a Cyber Security Architect to join us in safeguarding this legacy while empowering the next generation of breakthroughs.
This is your opportunity to play a critical role in enabling a university that doesn’t just respond to change but drives it—for our community, for society, and for the greater good.
Your Role :
As a Cyber Security Architect, you’ll help the University to ensure that our digital infrastructure is resilient, secure, and ready to adapt to emerging threats.
You will design innovative solutions that embody the principle of being “secure by design,” balancing technical excellence with our commitment to academic freedom and bold decision-making.
Your work will touch every corner of our diverse and dynamic institution. Whether advising technical teams, shaping security policies, or leading critical initiatives, you’ll collaborate with researchers, educators, and administrators to align security strategies with the University’s mission of advancing knowledge, sharing wisdom, and transforming lives.
At Manchester, our approach to cyber security isn’t just about protecting systems—it’s about enabling progress. By mitigating risks and anticipating challenges, you’ll help create an environment where creativity and discovery can flourish.
What You Bring to the Team
You’re more than a technical expert—you’re a problem-solver, a communicator, and a leader. Your knowledge spans application, data, infrastructure, and security domains, and you thrive on tackling complex challenges in innovative ways.
Your experience in designing secure solutions, particularly in cloud environments, equips you to lead with confidence. You have a knack for translating technical details into actionable insights, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions.
Most importantly, you share our values of inclusivity, integrity, and courage, and you’re inspired by the opportunity to contribute to something greater than yourself.
What We’re Looking For
At the University of Manchester, we value diverse perspectives and experiences. For the role of Cyber Security Architect, we’re not seeking perfection or a one-size-fits-all candidate to help us tackle the ever-evolving challenges of cyber security.
If you have experience navigating the complexities of technical systems and an understanding of how to design solutions that keep organisations safe, we’d love to hear from you.
Here’s what could make you a strong fit for this role :
A Solid Technical Foundation : You might have worked across application, data, infrastructure, or security domains, gaining insight into how they interact, with a strong grasp of designing secure systems is key.
A Problem Solver’s Mindset : Your ability to assess risks and devise practical, innovative solutions will be valued.
A Collaborative Approach : You enjoy working with diverse teams, translating complex technical ideas into accessible concepts, and engaging with stakeholders across different levels.
A Growth-Oriented Attitude : Maybe you’ve achieved certifications like CISSP or TOGAF, or perhaps you’ve honed your skills through hands-on experience. Either way, you’re eager to learn and adapt in an ever-changing landscape.
A Passion for Inclusion and Impact : You’re committed to fostering an inclusive environment and using your expertise to make a meaningful difference in our community and beyond.
What Matters Most
We understand that no single candidate will meet every desired quality, and that’s okay. If you have a genuine interest in this role and believe you have the skills and experience to contribute to our mission, we encourage you to apply.
By joining us, you’ll not only help protect the University’s vital systems and information but also contribute to a culture of curiosity, humanity, and bold innovation. Together, we’ll shape a future where security empowers progress.
What you will get in return :
- Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
- Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
- Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
- Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
- Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers
