Head of Security Design & Transition in London
Head of Security Design & Transition

Head of Security Design & Transition in London

London 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 in innovative environments.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on critical infrastructure while working with cutting-edge security technologies.
  • Qualifications: 7+ years in physical security, ideally in construction or data centres, with strong stakeholder management skills.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and travel.

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 in London 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 our comprehensive training programmes and opportunities for advancement within the rapidly expanding field of high-security infrastructure. Located at the forefront of technology in the UK and Europe, we offer a unique chance to contribute to mission-critical projects while enjoying a supportive culture that values your expertise and insights.
AJ Group

Contact Detail:

AJ Group Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

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

✨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 land you 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

Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. We recommend mentioning something specific from your conversation to make it personal.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged in the process.

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

Security Design
Project Lifecycle Management
Risk Assessment
Compliance with UK Security Standards
Stakeholder Management
Converged Security Knowledge
CPTED Principles
Vulnerability Analysis
Enterprise-Level Security Systems Installation
Technical Delivery Collaboration
Documentation and Training for Operations
Experience in High-Security Environments
Ability to Influence Across Teams
Understanding of Regulatory Standards

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Head of Security Design & Transition. 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: As a Subject Matter Expert, it's crucial to demonstrate your knowledge of UK and European security standards. Mention any relevant frameworks you've worked with and how you've applied them in previous roles. This will show us you mean business!

Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.

How to prepare for a job interview at AJ Group

✨Know Your Security Standards

Make sure you brush up on UK and European security standards like NPSA, HMG, and EN 50600. Being able to discuss these frameworks confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the role but also understand the compliance landscape.

✨Showcase Your Project Lifecycle Experience

Prepare examples from your past roles where you’ve led security projects from design to operational handover. Highlight specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this will demonstrate your hands-on experience in managing complex projects.

✨Emphasise Stakeholder Management Skills

Think of instances where you successfully influenced both technical and non-technical teams. Be ready to discuss how you navigated differing opinions and ensured everyone was aligned on security objectives throughout the project lifecycle.

✨Understand Converged Security

Familiarise yourself with the concept of converged security, including physical, electronic, and cyber interfaces. Be prepared to discuss how you would integrate these elements into a cohesive security strategy for data centre projects.

Head of Security Design & Transition in London
AJ Group
Location: London

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