Head of IT Security and Platform Engineering (Hybrid) Newcastle
2 days ago
Newcastle upon Tyne
My client, a Global organisation based in Newcastle city centre are seeking an experienced Head of Security and Platform Engineering to start ASAP. This pivotal role takes the lead in delivering breakthrough improvements in reliability and performance across technology platforms, ensuring our systems consistently exceed expectations. As the leading force behind our cyber security agenda, you will champion a step change in modern security controls-introducing cutting-edge measures that protect the business. You will lead four core technology towers, and inspire teams to set bold targets, measure progress, and celebrate success as we raise the bar for platform resilience, scalability, and security. Key Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership & Governance • Define and drive the vision, strategy, and roadmaps for Platform towers, aligned with business objectives and risk appetite., • Oversee integration and collaboration across the four core platform towers:, • Digital Workspace Services (DWS), • Support and System Reliability Engineering (SSRE), • Platform and Cloud Engineering (PaCE), • Security & Network Operations (SNOPs), • Shape the cyber security vision and build a corresponding technical roadmap which delivers a world class security controls across cloud infrastructure, networks, end points, identity & access management, application security, and threat detection., • Collaborate closely with the SNOPs Lead to adapt the SNOPs roadmap priorities in line with shifts in industry, evolving threat landscape and regulatory requirements., • Ensure effective 24/7 security operations (inc. security incident management), • Collaborate closely with the Enterprise Resilience function (1st Line of Defence) to ensure integrated risk management and incident response., • Ensure high availability, performance, and security of all technology systems and infrastructure., • Monitor and improve service levels, incident resolution times, and system reliability metrics., • Provide leadership and direction to platform tower leads, • Foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and innovation across all teams. Oversee the delivery and life cycle management of: • Microsoft 365 and collaboration platforms, • Cloud platforms (design, automation, cost optimisation), • Network and security operations (compliance, threat management), • Monitoring, observability, and backup/recovery systems, • Act as the escalation point for unresolved issues across platform towers., • Collaborate with product teams, business units, and external vendors to ensure service excellence and alignment with user needs., • Represent Technology in all relevant Information Security, Risk and project Committees, ensuring visibility and accountability for and robust management of cyber security risks., • Proven leadership in managing cyber security and cross-functional technology teams in a complex, global environment., • Deep understanding of IT infrastructure, cloud platforms (eg, Azure), and enterprise collaboration tools (eg, Microsoft 365)., • Strong grasp of ITIL-based service management, including incident, change, and problem management., • Expertise in security and compliance frameworks, including DORA and Cyber Essentials Plus., • Prior hands-on experience in delivering security solutions within enterprise environments, • Knowledge of disaster recovery, business continuity, and vulnerability management., • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field (Master's preferred)., • ITIL Foundation certification (Intermediate or Expert level desirable)., • 10+ years in IT leadership roles, with at least 5 years managing platform or infrastructure services., • Demonstrated success in leading digital transformation or cloud migration initiatives.