At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and enhance cybersecurity strategies while managing incident response and security operations.
- Company: Smiths Detection, a leader in innovative security solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on enterprise cybersecurity in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in cybersecurity with strong incident response skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Own and lead Smiths Detection’s enterprise cybersecurity posture through separation and into steady-state operations. Establish an effective security operating model (internal + vendors), reduce cyber risk, and ensure security is embedded into technology delivery and day-to-day operations. This is a hybrid role, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire as the office location.
Duties
- Cyber strategy & operating model: define and execute the Detection cybersecurity strategy aligned to business priorities and the separation roadmap; establish “Day 1 secure” and “Day 100 independent” outcomes.
- Security operations & incident response: lead Detection’s incident management, response readiness, and crisis communications; ensure effective monitoring and detection via SOC/MDR partners; maintain playbooks and conduct exercises.
- Threat & vulnerability management: run vulnerability management across endpoints, servers, network and cloud; coordinate remediation with IT and product/engineering stakeholders; track risk exceptions.
- Identity & access security (with IT Ops/IAM): ensure strong IAM controls (MFA/SSO, privileged access, joiner/mover/leaver governance) and access reviews.
- Security architecture & engineering partnership: define security patterns/standards; partner with Enterprise Architecture and Solution Architects to approve designs; ensure security is built into programmes.
- Third-party and supplier security: oversee security requirements for vendors, including separation suppliers and managed services; assure contractual controls and evidence.
- Security metrics & reporting: build meaningful KPI/KRI reporting (risk posture, patch/vuln SLAs, incident trends, control health) for CIO, leadership, and (where required) customers/auditors.
- Security awareness & culture: drive practical security behaviours and training, tailored to Detection’s environment.
Qualifications
- Senior cybersecurity leadership across enterprise IT (and ideally global/multi-site environments)
- Strong incident response and operational security background; ability to lead under pressure
- Experience managing SOC/MDR, penetration testing, and security vendors with measurable outcomes
- Solid grasp of modern security controls: IAM/PAM, EDR, email security, network security, cloud security
- Risk-based thinking and ability to communicate trade-offs to business and technology leaders
- Experience in regulated / critical infrastructure / high-assurance customer environments
- Familiarity with security frameworks (e.g., ISO 27001, NIST CSF) and audit evidence expectations
- Exposure to product/OT security governance and supply-chain assurance (SBOM, vulnerability disclosure)
- Eligible to obtain UK SC level clearance.
Diversity & Inclusion
We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.
Competitive compensation & benefits.
Head of Cyber Security in England employer: Smiths Detection
At Smiths Detection, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Hemel Hempstead that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training programmes and a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. With competitive compensation and benefits, along with the opportunity to lead critical cybersecurity initiatives, we empower our employees to make a meaningful impact in a rapidly evolving field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Cyber Security in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the cybersecurity field, especially those at Smiths Detection. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your incident response skills. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've tackled security challenges in the past. We want to see your problem-solving skills in action!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your knowledge of security frameworks like ISO 27001 or NIST CSF. Being able to discuss these in detail will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to maintaining a strong cybersecurity posture.
✨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 are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Cyber Security in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in cybersecurity leadership and operational security, as these are key for us at Smiths Detection. Use specific examples that showcase your skills in incident response and managing SOC/MDR.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you're passionate about cybersecurity and how your background aligns with our mission. Don’t forget to mention your familiarity with security frameworks like ISO 27001 or NIST CSF, as this will catch our eye.
Showcase Your Achievements:Quantify your successes where possible. If you've led a team through a major incident response or improved security metrics, let us know! Numbers speak volumes and help us understand the impact you've made in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smiths Detection
✨Know Your Cybersecurity Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key security frameworks like ISO 27001 and NIST CSF. Be ready to discuss how these frameworks can be applied to enhance the cybersecurity posture of the company, especially in relation to their separation roadmap.
✨Demonstrate Incident Response Expertise
Prepare to share specific examples of your experience in incident management and response readiness. Highlight any measurable outcomes from your previous roles, as this will show your ability to lead under pressure and effectively manage crises.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Cyber Security, you'll need to lead teams and collaborate with various stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and how you’ve successfully managed SOC/MDR teams or security vendors in the past.
✨Understand the Business Context
Make sure you can articulate how cybersecurity aligns with business priorities. Discuss how you would embed security into technology delivery and day-to-day operations, ensuring that security is not just an afterthought but a core component of the business strategy.
