Microsoft-Centric MDR Transformation

Project Overview
We are seeking an experienced Cyber Security Consultant / Solution Architect to lead the assessment, design, and transformation of a Microsoft-centric Managed Detection and Response (MDR) service. The consultant will work closely with our security leadership, SOC operations team, and technology stakeholders to evaluate the current security environment, define the future-state MDR architecture, and guide the implementation and operationalization of the solution.
The engagement will focus on establishing a scalable, enterprise-grade MDR capability leveraging Microsoft security technologies while integrating with existing security investments where applicable.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the current security operations, monitoring capabilities, technology landscape, and operational processes.
Review existing SIEM, SOAR, Endpoint Security, Threat Intelligence, Identity, Cloud Security, and Incident Response capabilities.
Identify architectural, operational, process, and technology gaps impacting MDR effectiveness.
Define the target-state MDR operating model, service framework, and transformation roadmap.
Develop current-state and future-state security architecture diagrams and reference architectures.
Design a Microsoft-centric MDR solution leveraging Microsoft Sentinel, Microsoft Defender XDR, Defender for Endpoint, Defender for Identity, Defender for Cloud, Microsoft Security Copilot, and related Microsoft security services.
Develop integration architecture for third-party security tools, threat intelligence platforms, ticketing systems, and security data sources.
Create detailed solution design documents, implementation blueprints, and deployment standards.
Define MDR use cases, detection strategies, incident response workflows, automation opportunities, and SOC operating procedures.
Provide guidance and oversight during implementation and onboarding activities.
Support tuning, optimization, and validation of detection and response capabilities.
Develop operational documentation, runbooks, governance frameworks, and service catalog artifacts.
Conduct knowledge transfer sessions and hands-on training workshops for internal SOC analysts, engineers, architects, and service delivery teams.
Mentor internal resources to ensure long-term sustainability of the MDR capability.
Expected Deliverables
Current-State Assessment Report
Gap Analysis and Recommendations
MDR Transformation Strategy and Roadmap
Target-State Security Architecture
MDR Reference Architecture and Solution Design
Integration Architecture and Data Flow Diagrams
Use Case and Detection Engineering Framework
SOC Operating Model and Governance Framework
Implementation and Migration Plan
Runbooks, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and Playbooks
Knowledge Transfer and Training Materials
Final Executive Summary and Recommendations
Required Skills and Experience
10+ years of experience in Cyber Security Architecture, SOC, MDR, or Security Operations.
Proven experience designing and implementing enterprise MDR or SOC transformation programs.
Deep expertise in Microsoft Security technologies, including:
Microsoft Sentinel
Microsoft Defender XDR
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
Microsoft Defender for Identity
Microsoft Defender for Cloud
Microsoft Entra ID
Microsoft Security Copilot
Strong understanding of SIEM, SOAR, UEBA, Threat Intelligence, Detection Engineering, Threat Hunting, and Incident Response.
Experience integrating Microsoft security solutions with third-party technologies.
Strong architecture, documentation, stakeholder management, and workshop facilitation skills.
Experience in MSSP, MDR service development, or enterprise SOC transformation initiatives is highly preferred.
Engagement Outcome
The objective of this engagement is to establish a modern, scalable, Microsoft-centric MDR capability that enhances threat detection, incident response, automation, visibility, governance, and operational effectiveness while enabling the internal team to independently manage and evolve the service after project completion.