Full job description

Are you an experienced Security Architect who enjoys shaping secure, scalable solutions that make a real business impact?

At Howdens, we’re looking for a Security Architect to play a key role in embedding security across our systems, projects, and technology landscape. This is an exciting opportunity to influence secure design decisions across infrastructure, cloud, and application projects, while helping us deliver resilient, compliant, and future-focused digital solutions.

You’ll work closely with technical teams, the PMO, Enterprise Architecture, Cyber teams, and external suppliers to ensure security is built into everything we do, from solution design and procurement through to implementation and operational handover.

What you’ll be doing

• Designing and delivering security solutions that support Howdens’ business goals and cyber risk strategy.
• Providing security architecture input across infrastructure, cloud, and application projects.
• Working with stakeholders to balance business needs, technical constraints, and security requirements.
• Leading and supporting solution design and re-architecture initiatives to ensure solutions are secure, maintainable, and scalable.
• Carrying out security architecture reviews of new and existing systems to identify risks and drive continuous improvement.
• Supporting the evaluation and procurement of security technologies, ensuring they align with Howdens’ standards and architecture principles.
• Working closely with Cyber SMEs and Enterprise Architecture to support a consistent, joined-up approach to security across IT.
• Helping to promote Information Security best practice and support compliance with security policy.

What we need from you

We’re looking for someone with strong Information Security experience and a clear architecture focus. You’ll need to be confident working across technical teams, influencing stakeholders, and turning security requirements into practical, effective solutions.

You’ll also bring:

• Strong knowledge of lateral movement risks, network segmentation, and endpoint security.
• Experience working with Windows and Linux operating systems.
• A good understanding of protocol analysis, network architecture, and infrastructure design.
• Experience leading solutions through the full lifecycle, from architecture and design through to engineering, deployment, operational handover, and support.
• A recognised Cyber Security qualification such as CISSP, CISM, or equivalent.
• Knowledge of frameworks such as ISO27001, PCI DSS, and Zero Trust.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence colleagues at all levels.
• The ability to work with third-party suppliers and support change across a fast-paced environment.
• Experience in presentation or training techniques within IT Security would be beneficial.

Based from our office in Northampton working onsite at least 2 days per week. Please note, this role may require travel to other Howdens locations.

What we can offer you:

• Competitive salary and annual company bonus
• Excellent pension scheme, with company contribution of up to 12%
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to buy additional days
• Staff discount
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional Reward and Recognition events

About Howdens:

Howdens Joinery is the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier, providing thousands of products across kitchens, joinery, and hardware. We have over 900 depots throughout the UK and Europe, making us the first choice for more than 460,000 loyal trade professionals. Last year our sales reached circa £2.3bn, and we have an ambitious growth agenda.

As well as the opportunity to develop within a fast-paced and commercial environment, you will be part of a rewarding organisation recognised for excellence in the workplace in the Best Big Companies to Work For.

How to apply

We’re building a future where world-class service, innovation, and sustainability are embedded within our DNA. If Howdens sounds like the kind of place where you can build and develop your career, then we’re keen to hear from you.

Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.