Cyber Security SME

Job title: Cyber Security SME

About the Role 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.

What You'll Do

• Define and implement an enterprise 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), IAM ecosystems, and core banking/trading/payment systems; embed security-by-design and zero-trust principles across all layers.
• Lead 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); 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).
• Lead Threat & Risk Management: 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.
• Provide Security Operations & Incident Response oversight: 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 DORA, PRA/FCA cyber resilience requirements, GDPR and data protection regulations, SWIFT 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.

What We're Looking For

• Essential: 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).
• Technical Capabilities: Network Security (Firewalls such as 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 such as Splunk, Sentinel; SOAR; threat intelligence platforms); Endpoint Security (EDR/XDR such as 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; ability to operate at both strategic (CISO-level) and hands-on technical levels; experience working across global, distributed teams.

Nice to Have

• Certifications: CISSP, CISM, CISA, CCSP; Azure/AWS Security certifications.
• Experience with Zero Trust Architecture and cloud transformation programmes.
• Exposure to AI-driven cyber security and automation.
• English: C1 Advanced.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range not disclosed; other benefits not specified.