At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead digital operations and cybersecurity to shape secure, resilient services.
- Company: Join West Kent, a values-led housing association making a positive impact.
- Benefits: Generous pension, health cash plan, flexible leave, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Hybrid working with excellent career growth opportunities in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in technology while leading an ambitious team.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in technology operations, infrastructure, and cybersecurity required.
Shape our technology. Strengthen our security. Make a difference.
Are you an inspiring technology leader who wants to make a visible difference? We are creating an exciting senior technology leadership role at West Kent, with the opportunity to shape the secure, resilient digital services that support our colleagues and residents.
Reporting to the Digital Technology Director, you will lead our service delivery, infrastructure and cybersecurity teams. You will set high standards for operational performance, strengthen our cyber resilience and ensure our cloud and on-premise technology is reliable, secure and easy to use.
This is a visible and influential role. You will help shape strategy, lead service improvement, manage key technology partners and lead our resilience and response to major incidents. You will also build digital capability across West Kent and deputise for the Director when required.
We are looking for a collaborative and credible leader with senior experience across technology operations, infrastructure and cybersecurity. You will bring strong technical judgement, commercial awareness and the ability to clearly communicate complex issues and resolve them.
At West Kent, your work will have purpose. You will join an inclusive, values-led organisation committed to delivering excellent services and making a positive difference for our residents and in our communities. We offer hybrid working from our Sevenoaks office and the opportunity to lead an ambitious function at a pivotal stage of its development.
Help us build secure, resilient, excellent digital technology services for tomorrow and beyond.
About Us
At West Kent we’re passionate about the role a housing association can play in society and believe the values of an organisation are what makes it special. Our vision is to deliver places to live and space to grow for our current and future residents. Our values guide us to how we do things from delivering on our promises, working with honesty, integrity, and flexibility, showing compassion and self-awareness, as well as a commitment to learning and equally important working hard and having fun.
Benefits
We offer a great package - generous pension and life cover, health cash plan, flexible leave package which includes an additional three days leave for our Christmas closure, paid time off to volunteer and an annual grant to support your wellbeing. Please see our website for more details about our benefits package.
Location Details
The role will be based in our Sevenoaks Office however we offer a flexible approach to hybrid working with full-time employees averaging two days in the office per week.
Hours
Full-time, 37 hours, Monday- Thursday 08:45am- 17:15pm and Friday 08:45am- 16:45pm.
Additional Information
You’ll need a full driving license and access to your own vehicle. Lead the management of the ‘on call’ and ‘out of hours’ rota, and lead the management of cybersecurity or service incidents at whatever time they occur. This post is subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Application Information
We will only consider applications submitted with a full CV and completed application form. You can access the full job description on our website.
For an informal discussion please contact Mark Lordon, IT Director.
Previous applicants need not apply.
Advert Closing Date: 18 October 2026 at 23:58
Interview Dates: 22 & 23 October 2026
Head of Digital Operations and Cybersecurity in Sevenoaks employer: West Kent Housing Association
At West Kent, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that values integrity, compassion, and continuous learning. As a Customer Resolution Officer, you'll not only have the chance to make a meaningful impact on customer experiences but also benefit from a generous package that includes a flexible leave policy, health cash plan, and opportunities for personal growth within our Sevenoaks office. Join us in our mission to create better living spaces and contribute to positive change in our community.
Contact Details:
West Kent Housing Association Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Digital Operations and Cybersecurity in Sevenoaks
✨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 West Kent Housing Association, 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 West Kent Housing Association
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at West Kent Housing Association. 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 Head of Digital Operations and Cybersecurity in Sevenoaks
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 West Kent Housing Association 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 West Kent Housing Association that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Kent Housing Association
✨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 West Kent Housing Association 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 West Kent Housing Association.
✨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.
