Job Title: Security Architect – Azure FocusContract Type: Contract (Outside IR35) Day Rate: £600/day Location: Hybrid – Remote with occasional travel to London Duration: 6 months (with potential extension) About the Role - We are looking for a highly skilled Security Architect with deep expertise in Microsoft Azure to join a leading organisation on a contract basis. This role is ideal for someone who can design and implement secure cloud architectures, drive security best practices, and support enterprise-wide Azure security initiatives. Key Responsibilities Design and implement secure architectures within Microsoft Azure, ensuring alignment with business and compliance requirements. Conduct Azure-specific threat modelling, risk assessments, and security reviews across infrastructure and applications. Collaborate with cloud engineering, DevOps, and compliance teams to embed security into the Azure development lifecycle. Define and maintain Azure security policies, standards, and best practices (e.g., Azure Security Centre, Defender for Cloud, Azure Policy). Provide expert guidance on Azure-native security tools including Azure AD, Key Vault, Sentinel, and Microsoft Defender. Lead incident response planning and support investigations related to Azure environments. Stay up to date with evolving Azure security capabilities, threats, and regulatory requirements. Essential Skills & Experience Proven experience as a Security Architect with a strong focus on Microsoft Azure. Deep understanding of Azure security architecture, governance, and compliance. Hands-on experience with Azure-native security tools and services. Familiarity with security frameworks such as NIST, ISO 27001, CIS Benchmarks, and Zero Trust principles. Azure certifications such as AZ-500 (Azure Security Engineer Associate) or SC-100 (Cybersecurity Architect Expert) are highly desirable. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills