Associate Director, IT Infrastructure & Cyber Security in London
Autolus Ltd London About the role
Work with us. Our team are passionate in the pursuit of excellence and in pushing the boundaries of cancer therapy and autoimmune disease to deliver life-changing treatments to patients. Whilst working at Autolus you will enjoy a flexible, diverse and dynamic working environment which actively promotes creativity, leadership and teamwork – together we are ONE Autolus.
Role Summary
The Associate Director of IT Infrastructure & Cyber Security is responsible for leading the design, delivery and continuous improvement of the organisation's IT Infrastructure and Cyber Security capabilities. The role provides both strategic direction and hands-on leadership across infrastructure services, cloud platforms, cyber security, governance, risk, compliance and technology transformation, ensuring that technology remains secure, resilient, scalable and aligned to business needs.
Working closely with senior stakeholders, the role is accountable for maintaining high-performing technology services, strengthening cyber resilience, supporting regulatory and audit requirements, and enabling the organisation's operational and strategic priorities through effective technology leadership. The role also plays a key part in shaping future capability, improving service maturity and ensuring that infrastructure and security investments deliver measurable business value.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership
- Develop and implement the enterprise IT Infrastructure and Cyber Security strategy aligned to business objectives.
- Define technology roadmaps, translating strategic goals into prioritised and deliverable initiatives.
- Provide strategic leadership for infrastructure modernisation, cloud adoption, automation, resilience and emerging technologies.
- Act as a trusted advisor to Executive Leadership on technology investments, cyber risks and enterprise architecture.
- Infrastructure & Technology Services
- Own the architecture, implementation and operational management of enterprise infrastructure services.
- Ensure infrastructure platforms are secure, resilient, highly available, scalable and fit for future business requirements.
- Oversee cloud platforms, networking, datacentre technologies, storage, end-user computing, collaboration platforms, identity management and infrastructure monitoring.
- Drive standardisation, automation and continual service improvement.
- Cyber Security
- Define and maintain the Cyber Security strategy, governance framework and operating model.
- Ensure compliance with recognised security frameworks including ISO 27001, NIST Cyber Security Framework and IEC 62443.
- Lead security architecture, Security Operations Centre (SOC), vulnerability management, incident response and cyber resilience activities.
- Conduct technology and cyber risk assessments, developing mitigation plans and providing executive reporting.
- Lead business continuity and disaster recovery planning.
- Champion security-by-design principles and promote a security-first culture across the organisation.
- Governance & Service Delivery
- Establish governance, operational policies, standards and procedures across Infrastructure and Cyber Security.
- Ensure compliance with applicable legal, regulatory and industry requirements.
- Define and monitor KPIs, SLAs and service performance metrics.
- Drive continual service improvement and operational excellence.
- Financial & Vendor Management
- Own the Infrastructure and Cyber Security budgets, ensuring effective resource allocation and cost optimisation.
- Lead supplier selection, contract negotiation and vendor performance management.
- Develop strategic partnerships with technology vendors and managed service providers.
- Leadership & Transformation
- Build, lead, mentor and develop high-performing Infrastructure and Cyber Security teams.
- Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, innovation and continuous improvement.
- Lead enterprise infrastructure upgrades, cloud migrations and technology transformation programmes.
- Ensure projects are delivered to agreed scope, budget and timelines.
Demonstrated skills and competencies
- E – Essential
- P – Preferred
- Professional certifications such as ITIL, CISSP, CISM, CCSP, ISO 27001 Lead Implementer/Auditor, TOGAF or cloud platform certifications (Azure, AWS or Google Cloud). (P)
- Minimum 10 years' experience in enterprise IT Infrastructure and Technology Operations with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role. (E)
- Proven experience developing and implementing enterprise Infrastructure and Cyber Security strategies. (E)
- Demonstrated experience managing enterprise infrastructure including cloud, networking, datacentres, storage, end-user computing and cyber security technologies. (E)
- Experience leading Security Operations, incident response, vulnerability management, technology transformation and cloud migration programmes. (E)
- Experience managing technology budgets, strategic suppliers, managed service providers and vendor contracts. (E)
- Strong knowledge of enterprise infrastructure architecture, cloud computing, cyber security, IT Service Management (ITSM), business continuity and disaster recovery. (E)
- Knowledge of ISO 27001, NIST Cyber Security Framework, IEC 62443 and relevant regulatory requirements including GDPR and GxP. (E)
- Experience working within regulated pharmaceutical, biotechnology or healthcare environments. (P)
- Excellent leadership, stakeholder management, communication, commercial, analytical and decision-making skills with the ability to balance strategic planning and operational delivery. (E)
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cyber Security, Engineering or a related discipline. (E)
- Postgraduate qualification (e.g. MSc or MBA) or equivalent professional qualification. (D)
Autolus Core Competencies
- Focus on Results: Works to meet business goals set by management and leaders.
- Builds Trust and Relationships: Ensures trust with internal and external partners by delivering on commitments.
- Resilience: Has the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
- Communicates and Collaborates: Builds partnerships and works collaboratively with others to meet objectives.
Autolus is committed to the protection of the personal information that we collect & process and we are fully compliant with General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). Autolus is committed to providing an inclusive and fair workplace for all. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. We also provide reasonable accommodations where appropriate. Autolus’ success is driven by equality and inclusion; we believe all voices are of equal value and must be heard. Whilst operating with focus and integrity, we are committed to improving diversity and inclusion within our business and our industry.
Your tasks
Lead IT Infrastructure and Cyber Security to enhance life-changing cancer therapies.
Your profile
10+ years in IT with leadership experience; relevant certifications preferred.
What's also included
Flexible working, diverse culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
Tech stack & ways of working
Associate Director, IT Infrastructure & Cyber Security in London employer: Autolus Ltd
Autolus Ltd. is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide ample opportunities for professional development and advancement in the rapidly evolving fields of IT infrastructure and cyber security. Located in Stevenage or London, our team enjoys a supportive culture that values work-life balance and fosters a sense of community among colleagues.
Your perspectives
Make a real impact in healthcare while advancing your career in tech.
StudySmarter Expert Advice
Get Involved in the Cybersecurity Community
Diving into the cybersecurity community is key for landing that full-time gig. Join forums like Reddit's r/cybersecurity or attend local meetups to connect with industry veterans and other job seekers. Networking is everything in this field—don’t just be a passive lurker!
Show Off Your Skills with Capture the Flag Competitions
Participate in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions; these are not just a fun way to boost your skills but also a chance to showcase your talent to potential employers. Many companies, including Autolus Ltd, love seeing candidates who actively engage in these challenges.
Tailor Your Online Presence
Make sure your LinkedIn and any professional profiles reflect your cybersecurity expertise. Share your projects, whether they’re personal or from a previous role, to catch the eye of hiring managers. This is how they’ll find your passion and commitment to the field!
Apply Directly Through Autolus Ltd
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at Autolus Ltd. Applying directly can sometimes give you an edge, especially if you can mention that you've been following our work or engaging in the community.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your technical skills
In cybersecurity, it's crucial to highlight your technical prowess. Make sure your CV showcases specific skills like network security, penetration testing, or threat analysis. If you have relevant certifications (like CEH or CISSP), pop those on the front page to grab attention!
Tailor your portfolio for the role
Even for a full-time role, a portfolio can set you apart. If you've worked on any cybersecurity projects—be it CTF challenges, security assessments, or research papers—include these in your application. This demonstrates not just your skills, but also your hands-on experience!
Use real-world examples
When writing your cover letter, don’t just stick to your qualifications. Share real-world examples of how you’ve tackled security issues or vulnerabilities. This gives the hiring team at Autolus Ltd insight into your practical problem-solving abilities and makes your application memorable.
Demonstrate your passion for cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, so show us that you’re always learning! Mention any recent courses, webinars, or industry events you’ve attended. This not only exhibits your enthusiasm but also signals to Autolus Ltd that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at Autolus Ltd
Sharpen Your Technical Skills
For a role in cybersecurity, it’s essential to be up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you’ve applied these skills, as hands-on experience can really set us apart in interviews.
Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect the interviewers at Autolus Ltd to throw in some hypothetical situations to see how you’d handle them. Think about common security breaches or incidents and be prepared to explain how you would respond. This not only shows your problem-solving skills but also your understanding of real-world cybersecurity challenges.
Highlight Your Certifications
Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH can give you a significant edge in a full-time role in cybersecurity. Make sure to mention these during your interview and be prepared to discuss what you learned through those certifications and how they relate to the position at Autolus Ltd.
Show Your Passion for Cybersecurity
Since you’re going for a full-time gig, showing genuine enthusiasm for the field can make all the difference. Share any personal projects, blogs, or communities you’re part of that relate to cybersecurity. This not only showcases your passion but also your commitment to staying engaged in this ever-evolving field.
Locations
- London