Lead Cyber Security Architect

Location: Houston, TX, United States

This is a hybrid position requiring an on-site presence 3 to 4 days per week. Please note that the number of days on-site can increase based on business needs.

Job Summary

The Lead Cybersecurity Architect will be responsible for spearheading the design, implementation, and evolution of secure architectures that protect Sysco’s enterprise systems, data, and infrastructure. This role drives the strategic vision for cybersecurity architecture and ensures that security frameworks, standards, and controls are consistently applied across the organization.

Key responsibilities include defining security frameworks, leading the integration of advanced cybersecurity solutions, collaborating with business and IT stakeholders to embed risk management practices, and mentoring a team of security architects to advance Sysco’s overall security posture.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of scalable, secure, and resilient cybersecurity architectures.
• Partner with senior leadership to shape the long-term security strategy and roadmap aligned with business goals.
• Conduct in-depth risk assessments and threat modeling to identify system vulnerabilities and recommend risk mitigation strategies.
• Oversee the integration and optimization of security technologies including endpoint protection, SIEM, cloud security, identity management, and threat detection tools.
• Define and implement cybersecurity policies, frameworks, and best practices based on industry standards (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001, CIS).
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements such as GDPR, HIPAA, and other applicable laws.
• Lead and mentor a team of Cybersecurity Architects, fostering skill development and knowledge sharing.
• Act as a trusted advisor on cybersecurity architecture and risk management to stakeholders across technology and business functions.
• Willing to work rotational shifts as required

Education Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or related field.
• Security-related certification required.

Education Preferred:

• Advanced degree preferred.
• Certifications such as CISSP, CEH, MCSE, or equivalent highly preferred.

Experience Required:

• Minimum 8 years of experience in IT, with at least 5 years in cybersecurity roles.
• Minimum 8 years of leadership experience managing security initiatives and teams.

Experience Preferred:

• 15+ years of combined experience in IT and cybersecurity.
• 10+ years of leadership experience in architecting security solutions for large-scale enterprise environments.

Technical Skills and Abilities

Priority Skills:

• Expertise in Network-Based Security Solutions (IPS/IDS, Next-Gen Firewalls, Behavioral Analytics, Malware Forensics).
• Experience with Host-Based Security (HIDS, DLP, Tripwire FIM & SCM, SentinelOne, Tanium, Zscaler).
• Proficiency in various system and database platforms (Linux, Windows, Unix, Oracle, DB2, SQL).
• Strong SIEM implementation and optimization knowledge.
• Deep understanding of secure communications, system integration, and encryption technologies.
• Ability to document and assess evidence for control effectiveness or deficiencies.
• Strong leadership presence and effective verbal/written communication skills.