ENVIRONMENT: Our client, a leading financial services organisation, is seeking a Cloud Security Specialist to support the design, implementation and maintenance of security controls across its cloud environments. The successful candidate will help protect systems, applications and data by identifying security vulnerabilities, strengthening cloud security configurations and ensuring appropriate security measures are implemented. The role involves working closely with architecture, infrastructure, development and security teams to improve cloud security, support incident response and embed security practices into development and deployment processes. Experience with Microsoft Azure and/or Amazon Web Services (AWS) will be relevant, with the specific platform requirements and technical scope subject to confirmation by the client. DUTIES: Assess cloud environments, identify security gaps and implement appropriate security improvements. Design, implement and maintain cloud security controls to protect systems, applications and data. Manage identity and access controls, including privileged access management, multifactor authentication and role-based access controls. Secure cloud networks, applications, storage, databases and encryption keys. Implement and maintain cloud security monitoring, threat detection and security information and event management (SIEM) solutions. Investigate security alerts and support incident response activities. Conduct vulnerability assessments, prioritise security risks and coordinate remediation. Implement network security measures, including firewalls, private connectivity and network segmentation. Apply encryption, key management and secrets management practices to protect sensitive data. Integrate security controls into development, deployment and CI/CD pipelines. Support security automation and infrastructure-as-code initiatives. Maintain cloud security documentation and assist with governance, compliance and audit requirements. Collaborate with architecture, infrastructure, development and security stakeholders to address cloud security risks. Contribute to the continuous improvement of cloud security standards, controls and operational processes. REQUIREMENTS: Relevant IT or cybersecurity qualification, or equivalent practical experience. Demonstrated hands-on experience securing enterprise cloud environments. Experience with Microsoft Azure and/or Amazon Web Services (AWS), including native cloud security controls. Strong knowledge of identity and access management, including Microsoft Entra ID or AWS IAM, privileged access management, multifactor authentication and role-based access controls. Experience with cloud security monitoring, threat detection and SIEM tools, such as Microsoft Defender for Cloud, Microsoft Sentinel or relevant AWS security services. Knowledge of cloud networking, firewalls, private connectivity and network segmentation. Understanding of data protection, encryption, key management and secrets management. Experience with vulnerability assessment, remediation and incident response. Working knowledge of infrastructure-as-code tools such as Terraform or equivalent technologies. Familiarity with CI/CD security controls and DevSecOps practices. Scripting experience using PowerShell, Python or similar tools. Understanding of cloud security governance, compliance and audit requirements. Relevant cloud security certifications would be advantageous. Experience in banking, financial services or other regulated enterprise environments would be beneficial. ATTRIBUTES: Strong analytical, troubleshooting and problem-solving skills. High attention to detail when assessing security risks and implementing controls. Proactive approach to identifying vulnerabilities and improving security posture. Strong understanding of security risks and the importance of protecting sensitive information. Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills. Ability to collaborate effectively with technical and non-technical teams. Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise security issues according to risk. Ability to investigate incidents, assess potential impact and recommend appropriate corrective actions. Adaptable and committed to continuous learning in an evolving cloud security landscape. Professional, accountable and able to work independently while contributing to broader security objectives.