At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead security assurance activities and manage cyber risks in a dynamic tech environment.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company committed to information security and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private medical insurance, and flexible working arrangements.
- Other info: Hybrid role with excellent career growth and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on security while collaborating with diverse teams and technologies.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in security assurance, strong communication skills, and relevant certifications required.
The predicted salary is between 54800 - 73250 £ per year.
Location: Cambridge / Hybrid – minimum 2 days per week in the office
Contract: Permanent
Hours: 35 hours per week
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced Security Assurance Lead to play a key role in strengthening information security, managing cyber risk, and improving security assurance across a complex technology environment. This is an influential and varied position, working closely with technology, security, and business teams to identify risks, improve controls, support compliance, and promote secure ways of working.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead security assurance activities covering attack surface management, vulnerability management, penetration testing, and security posture improvement.
- Work with technology and security teams to identify, assess, prioritise, and remediate vulnerabilities across applications, infrastructure, cloud services, and systems.
- Develop and maintain security policies, standards, procedures, and guidance.
- Support security risk assessments, supplier security reviews, and risk register management.
- Contribute to security governance, compliance, and external assessments, including alignment with ISO 27001 and NIST frameworks.
- Analyse threat intelligence, security testing results, and assurance data to identify priorities and improve organisational resilience.
- Provide clear security risk reporting and recommendations to senior stakeholders.
- Support incident preparedness, investigations, and security exercises.
- Monitor emerging cyber threats and identify opportunities to strengthen security through automation and new technologies.
- Contribute to the development and delivery of the wider security strategy.
About You
You will have 5+ years of experience in security testing, security assurance, or a closely related information security role, together with a strong understanding of security principles, cyber threats, risk management, and compliance frameworks. You should have:
- A degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or equivalent professional experience.
- Relevant professional certifications such as CISSP and/or recognised security testing qualifications.
- Proven experience managing information security risks and developing effective mitigations within medium to large organisations.
- Strong knowledge of security testing, vulnerability management, and assurance practices.
- Experience working with multiple stakeholders and influencing decision‑making at different levels.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
- The ability to manage multiple projects and priorities independently.
- A proactive and self‑motivated approach to security and risk management.
Desirable Experience
The following experience would be advantageous:
- Developing and maintaining a supply chain/security risk register within a medium to large organisation.
- Hands‑on experience with AI applications and tools such as Microsoft Copilot, Claude, or similar technologies.
- Experience using penetration testing and vulnerability management platforms such as Tenable within complex technology environments.
- Experience presenting and reporting security risks, vulnerabilities, and mitigation plans to senior leadership.
- Experience contributing to security strategy, governance, and continuous improvement programmes.
Working Arrangements
This is a hybrid role, with the successful candidate expected to spend approximately 40–60% of their working time collaborating with colleagues in person at the designated office location. Flexible working arrangements may also be considered, including reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or long‑term health conditions.
Benefits
The role offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Private medical insurance
- Permanent Health Insurance
- Discretionary annual bonus
- Group personal pension scheme
- Life assurance of up to 4x annual salary
- Green travel schemes
- Flexible and family‑friendly benefits
Recruitment Process
The recruitment process is expected to include:
- Three role‑related application questions requiring brief responses.
- A 15-minute screening call with the Hiring Manager.
- First-stage virtual interview via Microsoft Teams.
- Final-stage in-person interview.
The application closing date is 2 September. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, with interviews expected to take place shortly after shortlisting. Successful candidates will be subject to satisfactory background checks, including DBS checks where applicable. Reasonable adjustments can be requested throughout the recruitment process.
Equal Opportunities
We are committed to providing an inclusive and equitable recruitment process. Applications are welcomed from candidates of all backgrounds, experiences, and communities. We believe that diversity of thought, background, and experience contributes to better outcomes and are committed to creating an environment where everyone can develop, contribute, and build a successful career.
Security Assurance Lead in Cambridge employer: Hire Top Talent
At Hire Top Talent, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our comprehensive training programmes and opportunities for advancement within the dynamic field of digital transformation. Located in a vibrant area, we offer a supportive work environment that values work-life balance and encourages creative problem-solving, making it an ideal place for professionals looking to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Security Assurance Lead in Cambridge
✨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 Hire Top Talent, 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 Hire Top Talent
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at Hire Top Talent. 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 Security Assurance Lead in Cambridge
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 Hire Top Talent 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 Hire Top Talent that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hire Top Talent
✨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 Hire Top Talent 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 Hire Top Talent.
✨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.