At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead offensive security initiatives and shape secure software development strategies.
- Company: Join Aviva, a forward-thinking company prioritising application security.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, 29 days holiday, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cybersecurity while leading a growing team.
- Qualifications: Expertise in application security and experience in leading security engagements.
This is a great job for someone who is an experienced Application Security or Offensive Security professional looking to shape the future of secure software development at scale. You’ll enjoy combining deep technical expertise with strategic thinking, influencing engineering teams, and helping organisations stay ahead of evolving threats across applications, cloud platforms and software supply chains.
This role offers a unique opportunity to help build and lead a growing Application Security capability, with the position expected to transition into a people leadership role from the end of 2026.
A bit about the job: We’re investing in our Application Security capability as cyber threats continue to evolve, and software supply chain security becomes increasingly important. As our Application Security – Offensive Security Team Lead, you’ll play a key role in driving the strategy, direction and maturity of application security across Aviva. You’ll lead complex offensive security engagements, provide expert guidance on application security risks, and help development teams build security into every stage of the software development lifecycle. From threat modelling and secure development practices to software supply chain security and emerging risks associated with AI‑assisted development, you’ll help shape how we protect our applications today and in the future. You’ll also be a security champion across our engineering community, mentoring colleagues, promoting security best practices, and helping create a culture where secure development is everyone’s responsibility. As the team grows, you’ll take on increasing leadership responsibilities, helping develop both the capability and the people within it.
Skills and experience we’re looking for:
- Deep expertise in application security, offensive security testing, software vulnerabilities and software supply chain security risks
- Strong understanding of modern Software Development Lifecycles (SDLC), secure‑by‑design principles, and the impact of AI and LLM‑assisted software development
- Experience leading penetration testing, threat modelling exercises, security assessments or offensive security engagements within complex technology environments
- Knowledge of cloud security principles and modern application architectures, including containerised, virtualised or serverless platforms
- Ability to communicate security risk clearly, influence stakeholders at all levels, mentor colleagues, and drive security initiatives through to delivery
What you’ll get for this role:
- Salary: Circa £90,000 (depending on location, skills, experience and qualifications)
- Bonus opportunity – 12% of annual salary. Actual amount depends on your performance and Aviva's
- Generous pension scheme e.g. if you put in 8%, Aviva adds 14%
- 29 days holiday plus bank holidays, and you can choose to buy or sell up to 5 days
- Aviva‑funded Private Medical Benefit to help you get expert support when you need it
- Make your money go further – up to 40% discount on Aviva products, and other retailer discounts
- Up to £1,200 of free Aviva shares per year through our Matching Share Plan and share in the success of Aviva with our Save As You Earn scheme
- Brilliantly supportive policies including parental and carer's leave
- Flexible benefits to suit you, including sustainability options such as cycle to work
- Make a difference, be part of our Aviva Communities and use your 3 paid volunteering days to help others
- We take your wellbeing seriously with lots of support and tools
Aviva is for Everyone: We’re inclusive and welcome everyone – we want applications from all backgrounds and experiences. Excited but not sure you tick every box? Even if you don’t, we’d still encourage you to apply. We also consider all forms of flexible working, including part‑time and job shares. We flex locations, hours and working patterns to suit our customers, business and you. Most of our people are smart working – spending around 50% of their time in our offices every week, combining the benefits of flexibility with time together with colleagues. We interview every disabled applicant who meets the minimum criteria for the job.
Application Security - Offensive Security Team Lead in Norwich employer: Aviva plc
Aviva is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and well-being of its employees, offering a competitive starting salary of around £60,000 along with a generous benefits package including a robust pension scheme, private medical benefits, and flexible working options. The collaborative work culture fosters technical excellence and continuous improvement, allowing you to make a meaningful impact while being part of a supportive team dedicated to delivering fair outcomes for customers in challenging situations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Application Security - Offensive Security Team Lead in Norwich
✨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 Aviva plc, 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 Aviva plc
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at Aviva plc. 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.
We think you need these skills to ace Application Security - Offensive Security Team Lead in Norwich
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 Aviva plc 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 Aviva plc that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at Aviva plc
✨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 Aviva plc 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 Aviva plc.
✨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.
