At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead technology operations and drive transformation for a major London borough.
- Company: Join Southwark Council, a forward-thinking organisation focused on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and flexible hybrid working options.
- Other info: Opportunity to create impactful change in a vibrant community.
- Why this job: Shape the future of technology while improving lives for over 300,000 residents.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in technology leadership and cyber security expertise required.
The predicted salary is between 86652 - 108462 £ per year.
Allen Lane are delighted to be supporting Southwark Council in the appointment of an Assistant Director of Technology & Security. This is a rare opportunity to help write the technology and change playbook for one of London’s most ambitious boroughs. Reporting to the Director of Digital & Resident Experience, you'll join a newly formed leadership team with the mandate, freedom and backing to transform how technology enables services for over 300,000 residents.
At a time of significant investment and change, Southwark is modernising its digital, data and technology landscape, bringing services closer to residents, strengthening cyber resilience, embracing AI and building a future-ready in-house technology capability. If you're an inspiring technology leader who combines operational excellence with innovation and strategic vision, we'd love to hear from you.
The role
- Lead the council’s technology operations, infrastructure, networks and cyber security functions, ensuring secure, resilient and high-performing services.
- Shape and deliver a technology-enabled transformation agenda that improves resident experience, workforce productivity and service efficiency.
- Drive the transition from legacy and shared-service arrangements to a modern, sustainable in-house operating model.
- Champion innovation, AI adoption and modern Microsoft technologies while maintaining stability, security and public trust.
- Lead strategic supplier, commercial and budget management across a significant technology portfolio.
- Act as a trusted advisor to senior executives and elected members on technology strategy, risk, investment and digital transformation.
What we're looking for
- Proven experience leading enterprise-scale technology operations, infrastructure and cyber security services.
- A track record of delivering complex digital and organisational transformation while maintaining operational resilience.
- Strong expertise in cyber security, technology risk, governance and regulatory compliance.
- Experience shaping technology strategy, enterprise architecture and modern digital platforms, including AI-enabled services.
- The ability to influence and build credibility at executive, political and partner levels.
- A passion for developing inclusive, high-performing teams and designing services around the needs of residents and communities.
Why Southwark?
- A genuine opportunity to create rather than inherit, shaping the future technology landscape from the ground up.
- Backing for innovation, AI adoption and bold thinking at the heart of a major London borough.
- The chance to improve outcomes for residents through technology that is inclusive, secure and human-centred.
- Flexible and hybrid working, with collaboration from Southwark's vibrant London Bridge headquarters.
What you get in return
A salary between £86,652-£108,462 plus JNC Benefit of £3503 and excellent benefits.
How to apply
Please submit your CV to southwark@allenlane.co.uk alongside a supporting statement (no more than 2 pages) stating why you’d like to apply and how your skills and experience meet the key criteria outlined in the job description.
You can view the full details on the microsite here - Welcome | Southwark
Timetable
- Closing Date – Sunday 14th June at 23:59
- 1st stage Interviews W/c 22nd June
- Technical interviews – W/c 29th June
- Final Panel interviews – W/c 6th July
Assistant Director of Technology & Security in London employer: Allen Lane
Southwark Council offers a unique opportunity for technology leaders to shape the future of digital services in one of London’s most dynamic boroughs. With a strong commitment to innovation and community-focused technology, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture, flexible hybrid working arrangements, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on over 300,000 residents. The council prioritises professional growth and development, ensuring that team members are equipped to lead transformative projects in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director of Technology & Security in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to Southwark Council. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in technology and security. Show us you’re not just a candidate but a thought leader who’s ready to shape the future of tech at Southwark.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role. We want to hear how you can lead transformation and drive innovation in a way that resonates with the council's goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director of Technology & Security in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Assistant Director of Technology & Security. Highlight your experience in leading technology operations and cyber security, as well as any relevant achievements that align with Southwark's goals.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Keep it concise and focused on why you want this role and how your skills meet the key criteria. Use specific examples to demonstrate your experience in digital transformation and innovation.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:As a technology leader, it's important to convey your leadership style in your application. Discuss how you've built high-performing teams and fostered an inclusive environment, as this aligns with Southwark's values.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. Make sure to double-check all your documents before hitting send, and don’t forget to meet the deadline – Sunday 14th June at 23:59!
How to prepare for a job interview at Allen Lane
✨Know Your Tech Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in technology, especially around cyber security and AI. Be ready to discuss how these can be applied to improve services for residents. Show them you’re not just a techie but someone who understands the bigger picture.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led teams through digital transformations. Highlight your ability to inspire and develop high-performing teams. They want to see that you can not only manage technology but also people and processes effectively.
✨Understand Southwark's Vision
Familiarise yourself with Southwark Council’s goals and challenges. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their ambition to modernise and innovate. This will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the borough.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Have insightful questions ready about their current technology landscape and future plans. This shows you’re engaged and thinking critically about how you can contribute. It’s also a great way to assess if this is the right fit for you.
