Head of Security Design & Transition
Head of Security Design & Transition

Head of Security Design & Transition

Full-Time 80000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
AJ Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead security design and implementation for high-security data centre projects across the UK and Europe.
  • Company: Join a leading data centre developer focused on mission-critical infrastructure.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a chance to shape security strategies.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in high-security environments while advancing your career.
  • Qualifications: 7+ years in physical security with experience in construction or critical infrastructure.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration across teams.

The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.

We’re partnered with a leading data centre developer and operator delivering high-security, mission-critical infrastructure across the UK and Europe. With a strong pipeline of new builds and expansions, they are looking to appoint a senior security leader to drive the design, implementation and transition of security across complex construction projects.

This is a strategic, project-focused role sitting at the intersection of security, design and delivery; ideal for someone with experience across critical infrastructure, data centres or high-security built environments.

The Role
  • Lead the end-to-end delivery of security across the full project lifecycle - from early design (RIBA Stage 0) through to commissioning and operational handover.
  • Act as the Subject Matter Expert across physical, electronic and converged security, ensuring a cohesive and compliant approach across all projects.
  • Develop security strategies, specifications and design requirements aligned to risk, regulatory standards and operational needs.
  • Work closely with construction, design, technical and operational teams to embed security into project delivery from day one.
  • Oversee the selection, installation and commissioning of enterprise-level security systems (access control, CCTV, perimeter protection, intrusion detection).
  • Ensure compliance with UK and European security standards, including NPSA, HMG and relevant infrastructure frameworks.
  • Lead risk assessments, vulnerability analysis and mitigation strategies across multiple live projects.
  • Support the transition into operations, including documentation, training and early life support.
Project Environment
  • Hyperscale and enterprise data centre developments.
  • High-security and critical infrastructure environments.
  • Multi-site delivery across the UK and Europe.
We’re Looking For
  • 7+ years’ experience in physical security, ideally within construction, data centres or critical infrastructure.
  • Strong background in security design, risk and compliance within the built environment.
  • Experience working across full project lifecycle.
  • Knowledge of UK security frameworks (NPSA, HMG, SPF) and European standards (e.g. EN 50600).
  • Experience working with or alongside consultancies, contractors and technical delivery teams.
  • Strong stakeholder management - able to influence across technical and non-technical teams.
  • Understanding of converged security (physical, electronic and cyber interfaces).
  • Familiarity with CPTED principles and security risk methodologies.
Additional
  • Experience in data centres or other mission-critical environments is highly desirable.
  • Previous exposure to high-security or government-backed projects is advantageous.
  • Security clearance (SC/DV) or ability to obtain is preferred.
  • Willingness to travel across UK and Europe.

Head of Security Design & Transition employer: AJ Group

As a leading data centre developer and operator, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic work environment that champions innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through tailored training programmes and opportunities to lead high-impact projects across the UK and Europe, ensuring that our team members are at the forefront of security design and implementation in critical infrastructure. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking company that values your expertise and offers a unique chance to shape the future of high-security environments.
AJ Group

Contact Detail:

AJ Group Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Security Design & Transition

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. We want you to show off your knowledge about their security design and transition processes. Tailor your answers to highlight how your experience aligns with their needs.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable discussing your experience in security design and compliance. We want you to feel confident when it’s time to shine.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join our team.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Security Design & Transition

Security Design
Project Lifecycle Management
Risk Assessment
Compliance with UK Security Standards
Stakeholder Management
Converged Security Knowledge
CPTED Principles
Vulnerability Analysis
Security System Installation and Commissioning
Technical Delivery Collaboration
Operational Handover Support
Documentation and Training Development
Experience in High-Security Environments
Data Centre Expertise
Ability to Obtain Security Clearance

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Security Design & Transition role. Highlight your experience in security design and project management, especially in data centres or critical infrastructure. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this strategic role. Share specific examples of your past projects and how you've successfully led security initiatives. We love a good story!

Showcase Your Expertise: Don’t forget to highlight your knowledge of UK and European security standards. Mention any relevant frameworks you’ve worked with, like NPSA or EN 50600. This will show us that you’re not just experienced, but also up-to-date with industry standards.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!

How to prepare for a job interview at AJ Group

✨Know Your Security Standards

Make sure you brush up on UK and European security frameworks like NPSA, HMG, and EN 50600. Being able to discuss these standards confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with them but can also apply them in real-world scenarios.

✨Demonstrate Project Lifecycle Knowledge

Prepare to talk about your experience across the full project lifecycle. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led security design from early stages through to operational handover, highlighting any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

✨Showcase Stakeholder Management Skills

This role requires strong stakeholder management, so think of instances where you've influenced both technical and non-technical teams. Prepare anecdotes that illustrate your ability to communicate complex security concepts clearly and effectively.

✨Familiarise Yourself with Converged Security

Since the role involves converged security, make sure you understand the interfaces between physical, electronic, and cyber security. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve integrated these elements in past projects and the benefits it brought to the overall security strategy.

Head of Security Design & Transition
AJ Group

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