Cyber Security SME

Project description

We are seeking a Cyber Security SME to lead the design, implementation, and governance of security controls across the bank's technology landscape. The role will ensure robust protection of platforms, networks, cloud environments, client data, and critical banking infrastructure while maintaining compliance with global regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Security Strategy Architecture
  • Define and implement enterprise-wide cyber security strategy aligned to the bank's business and technology landscape
• Design and govern secure architectures across:
  • Network infrastructure (on-prem and hybrid connectivity)
  • Cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, GCP)
  • Identity and access management ecosystems
  • Core banking, trading, and payment systems
• Embed security-by-design and zero trust principles across all layers
• Core Security Domains Ownership
  • Lead and provide SME oversight across key cyber domains:
    • Network Security (firewalls, IDS/IPS, segmentation, secure connectivity, DDoS protection)
    • Cloud Security (secure configuration, CSPM, workload protection, cloud-native controls)
    • Identity Access Management (IAM/PAM) (RBAC, MFA, privileged access, identity governance)
    • Endpoint Infrastructure Security (EDR/XDR, device hardening, patching)
    • Application Security (secure SDLC, DevSecOps, API security, code scanning)
    • Data Security (encryption, tokenisation, DLP, data classification)
• Threat Risk Management
  • Lead threat modelling and risk assessments across critical banking systems and infrastructure
• Define mitigation strategies aligned to frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001, CIS)
• Oversee vulnerability management, penetration testing, and security assurance activities
• Security Operations Incident Response
  • Provide oversight on SOC, SIEM, SOAR, and threat detection capabilities
  • Enhance monitoring through AI-driven anomaly detection and behavioural analytics
  • Define and lead incident response strategies for cyber events (ransomware, breaches, insider threats, DDoS)
• Regulatory Compliance
  • Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards:
  • DORA (Digital Operational Resilience Act)
  • PRA / FCA cyber resilience requirements
  • GDPR and data protection regulations
  • SWIFT Customer Security Programme (CSP)
  • Support audits, regulatory reviews, and cyber resilience testing
• Third-Party Supply Chain Security
  • Assess and manage cyber risk across vendors, fintech partners, and infrastructure providers
  • Define third-party security standards, onboarding controls, and continuous monitoring
• Stakeholder Management Advisory
  • Act as trusted advisor to CIO, CISO, Risk, and business stakeholders
  • Translate technical cyber risks into business and operational impact
  • Support RFPs, client engagements, and strategic cyber transformation initiatives

Skills

• At least 5 years of relevant experience in cyber security within banking / financial services
• Proven expertise across network, cloud, IAM, application, and data security domains
• Hands-on knowledge of security frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001, CIS Controls)
• Network Security: Firewalls (e.g., Palo Alto, Fortinet), IDS/IPS, VPNs, segmentation
• Cloud Security: Azure/AWS/GCP security services, CSPM, IAM integration, container security
• IAM/PAM: Okta, Azure AD, CyberArk, SailPoint or similar
• Security Operations: SIEM (Splunk, Sentinel), SOAR, threat intelligence platforms
• Endpoint Security: EDR/XDR solutions (e.g., CrowdStrike, Defender)
• DevSecOps: CI/CD security integration, SAST/DAST tools
• Data Protection: Encryption standards, key management, DLP
• Regulatory Knowledge: Strong understanding of cyber resilience expectations within banking
• Experience supporting audits, regulatory submissions, and control frameworks
• Soft Skills: Strong stakeholder engagement and executive communication skills
• Soft Skills: Ability to operate at both strategic (CISO-level) and hands-on technical levels
• Soft Skills: Experience working across global, distributed teams
• Nice to have: Certifications: CISSP, CISM, CISA, CCSP, Azure/AWS Security certifications
• Nice to have: Experience with Zero Trust Architecture and cloud transformation programmes
• Nice to have: Exposure to AI-driven cyber security and automation