Digital Security Architect (Johannesburg)

A leading technology-driven organization is seeking an experienced Senior Manager: Digital Security Architect to lead the design, evolution, and governance of enterprise security architecture across a complex digital ecosystem. This strategic leadership role is responsible for defining security architecture standards, driving secure-by-design principles, and ensuring that digital transformation initiatives are underpinned by robust, scalable, and resilient security frameworks.

The successful candidate will partner with business and technology stakeholders to align cybersecurity strategy with organizational objectives while managing emerging risks, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.

Experience

• 8 to 12+ years total IT/ security experience; 5-7+ years in security architecture within large, complex enterprises.
• Demonstrable delivery across cloud, API, data/AI, mobile/web apps, security for AI and AI for security and telco/network environments.
• Experience operating in multi-market/Group-OpCo models and regulated domains (POPIA/GDPR; PCI/FS for fintech).

Technical competencies :

• API security, OAuth/OpenID Connect, identity platforms
• Cloud-native security (CSPM, CNAPP, IaC, SBOM)
• Microservices and platform engineering security
• Digital identity, fraud detection, privacy engineering
• DevSEcOps developer ecosystem governance
• Security for AI
• Security incident management
• Project management

Minimum qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science/information systems/engineering (or equivalent).
• Post-grad preferred (e.g. MSc, MBA) or equivalent experience
• Certifications (preferred)
• Architecture: SABSA, TOGAF.
• Security: CISSP, CCSP, CISM (or equivalent).
• Cloud: Azure/AWS/GCP security certifications.
• AI: security for AI certifications
• DevSecOps/IaC: Kubernetes, Terraform, or equivalent product certs.
• Compliance: ISO 27001 Lead Implementer/Auditor, PCI ISA (if fintech).

Reference number for this position is GZ61490 which is a permanent position based in Johannesburg offering a salary of R1.6m per annum, negotiable based on experience and ability.