At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a global DevOps Security function and shape security for AI-enabled development.
- Company: Join Sage, a leader in tech supporting small and mid-sized businesses worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous bonuses, hybrid working, and 25 days annual leave plus more!
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on security across innovative products and technology.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in tech, strong communication skills, and a passion for security.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Unify and lead the function: Build one global Dev Ops Security function around shared priorities, clear accountability, consistent ways of working and a strong delivery rhythm.
- Set direction and drive execution: Lead the Dev Ops Security roadmap and ensure global initiatives improve Sage's security position at pace and with measurable impact.
- Partner across Product Engineering, Cloud Platform Operations and Enterprise IT: Build trusted relationships across these organisations to embed security into technology delivery, remove blockers and ensure vulnerabilities and security risks are addressed effectively.
- Embed security into how software is built: Advance agile and Dev Sec Ops practices across an AI-enabled software development lifecycle, using automation and orchestration to create scalable solutions.
- Strengthen security across Sage's internal technology environment: Work with Enterprise IT and Cloud Platform Operations to improve security across internal platforms, infrastructure and services, ensuring the function protects both Sage's products and the technology used to run the business.
- Provide technical judgement: Act as a credible sounding board on application, product, cloud and enterprise technology security, architecture reviews, threat assessment and complex cyber incidents.
This is a leadership role, not a hands‑on coding position.
- Shape emerging security priorities: Help Sage respond to the opportunities and risks created by AI, including AI in products, partner ecosystems, colleague use and AI‑assisted software development.
- Influence strategic decisions: Advise senior leaders on cyber security and contribute to initial security and architecture assessments for potential acquisitions.
- Build for the future: Identify areas for investment, risk reduction, architectural improvement and greater efficiency.
- What success looks like - Dev Ops Security operates as one high‑performing global function, with clear priorities, accountability and consistent ways of working.
- Security is consistently embedded across Product Engineering roadmaps, the software development lifecycle, cloud operations and Sage's internal technology environment.
- Global security programmes are delivered with stronger pace, quality and measurable business impact.
- Vulnerabilities and security risks are communicated clearly and addressed within agreed service levels.
- The team is engaged, well led and connected across regions and time zones.
Proven people leadership in a complex technology environment, with the judgement and resilience that come from leading technical teams through change.
- Experience working with globally distributed, diverse and multicultural teams.
Experience leading managers is valuable, but strong cross‑functional influence and leadership are equally important.
- Strong knowledge of application, product, software, cloud or enterprise technology security, including how security is embedded across the software development lifecycle, Dev Ops practices and cloud‑based services.
- Enough technical depth to challenge, guide and unblock specialists, without needing to be the person writing code or designing every solution.
- A track record of building or bringing together functions, improving ways of working and delivering technology or security transformation.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to move confidently between technical discussions and clear updates for senior leaders.
- Curiosity about emerging security trends, particularly the practical impact of AI on software development and cyber security.
- Willingness to travel to build strong relationships with teams and stakeholders across Sage.
Industry background: You do not need to come directly from a software company, but you must have worked in an organisation with meaningful software development capability and understand security in products, services and internal technology environments.
No specific coding language or security certification is required.
Job Description
This is a high‑impact global leadership role at the intersection of cyber security, product engineering, cloud operations, enterprise technology and AI‑enabled software development.
You will lead Sage's largest technical security function, with a global team protecting a broad portfolio of products and services.
Your mandate is to build one connected, high‑performing Dev Ops Security function, strengthen how security is embedded throughout the software lifecycle, and help Product, Engineering and Enterprise IT turn security priorities into action.
- Why this role stands out
- Lead and shape a global Dev Ops Security function.
- Shape security for AI‑enabled development and the next generation of Sage products.
- Influence major Product, Engineering and Enterprise IT decisions.
- Build a consistent, scalable security capability across Sage's technology landscape.
Benefits
- Generous bonuses and pension scheme
- 25 days of paid annual leave with the option to buy up to another 5 days
- 8 bank holiday days Paid 5 days yearly to volunteer through our Sage Foundation
- 50% income protection
- Holiday buy + sell
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
- Work away scheme for up to 10 weeks a year
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Hybrid working
- Healthy Mind app membership
- Access to various helpful memberships for finances, health and wellbeing
Function Global Information Security Country United Kingdom Office Location Newcastle Work Place type Hybrid Advert
Working at Sage means you're supporting millions of small and mid‑sized businesses globally with technology to work smarter and move faster.
We build software that reduces busywork so customers can spend less time on admin and more time building their business.
Our colleagues are high‑performers who prioritise growth, make bold choices, and focus and galvanise to get things done.
They work on meaningful, market‑shaping initiatives that stretch their skills, sharpen their craft, and create real customer impact.
Explore our culture and benefits: sage. com/careers/working-at-sage We celebrate individuality and welcome you to join us if you embrace all backgrounds, identities, beliefs, and ways of working.
We're a Disability Confident employer - if you're applying through this scheme or need adjustments at any stage, contact careers@sage. com.
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Director - DevOps Security in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Sage Group plc
At Sage, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in our Cobalt office, Newcastle upon Tyne. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through ongoing training, flexible working patterns, and a culture that celebrates individuality and diversity. With comprehensive health benefits and opportunities for meaningful community engagement, we empower our team members to thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director - DevOps Security in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨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 Sage Group 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 Sage Group plc
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at Sage Group 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 Director - DevOps Security in Newcastle upon Tyne
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 Sage Group 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 Sage Group plc that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sage Group 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 Sage Group 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 Sage Group 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.
