Head of Information Security

Vp plc; Harrogate; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading equipment rental company in Harrogate is seeking an experienced Information Security leader to define and implement a comprehensive security strategy. You will advise the board on risks and controls, while building a team to enhance security efforts. The ideal candidate has a proven track record in complex organizations, certified expertise in security frameworks, and robust knowledge of data protection laws. This role includes collaboration with senior leadership and diverse stakeholders, ensuring alignment with business objectives.

Benefits

Salary sacrifice pension

Company car

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Life Assurance cover 3x salary

Learning & Development opportunities

Gym discounts

Qualifications

• Proven experience in leading a critical, complex department.
• Certified expertise in security frameworks and standards.
• Hands-on experience with security tools and technologies.

Responsibilities

• Define and implement Vp's Information Security strategy.
• Lead strategy adoption and alignment with business goals.
• Conduct risk assessments on systems, data, and networks.

Skills

Leadership in complex departments

Security frameworks expertise (NCSC, NIST, ISO27001)

Hands-on with security tools (SIEM, IDS/IPS, DLP)

Knowledge of UK Data Protection and GDPR

Stakeholder engagement

Tools

Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)

Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)

Data Loss Prevention (DLP)

Job description

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Job Introduction

In this role you will lead on Information Security at Vp plc, updating our strategy and implementing a program to integrate it across the company whilst also building a small team to support this effort.

Reporting to the Group CIO and working closely with the Technology Senior Leadership Team, you will advise the board, executive committee, and leadership teams on information security. Alongside the CIO, internal audit, and Exco, you will assess risks, threats, and controls to ensure our information security aligns with the board's risk tolerance.

This individual will be the company's expert on Cyber and Information Security, including data security risks related to regulations like the UK Data Protection Act (DPA) and GDPR.

Key Responsibilities

• Define, implement, and periodically refresh Vp's Information Security strategy
• Lead strategy adoption and ensure alignment with business goals
• Communicate strategy with senior leadership and the board
• Motivate and collaborate across teams to integrate security practices
• Conduct risk assessments on systems, data, and network
• Develop mitigation plans and conduct regular security audits
• Oversee day-to-day security operations and incident management
• Develop and maintain incident response plans
• Implement security technologies aligned with strategy and risk plans (e.g., firewalls, encryption)
• Analyze data from tools, audits, and trends to improve security effectiveness

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience in leading a critical, complex department
• Certified expertise in security frameworks and standards (e.g., NCSC, NIST, ISO27001)
• Hands‑on experience with security tools like SIEM, IDS/IPS, and DLP
• Skilled in creating and implementing company‑wide security strategies and controls
• Strong knowledge of UK Data Protection, GDPR, and related laws
• Experience in commercial, sales‑driven organizations, especially in the hire sector – Desirable
• Experienced in the construction, rail, and utility industries – Desirable
• Adept at working with diverse stakeholders, including board‑level executives – Desirable
• Active participant in information security communities within the sector and beyond – Desirable

What We Can Offer You

• Salary sacrifice pension
• Company car
• 25 days holiday, plus bank holidays
• Additional holiday purchase scheme
• Free Tool Hire
• Life Assurance cover 3x salary
• Share save scheme
• Eye care vouchers
• Recommend a friend scheme
• Learning & Development – commitment to upskilling and developing our people, structured in‑house training available alongside external training where required
• Cycle to work scheme
• Long service recognition
• My Vp discounts – a variety of discounts and rewards on thousands of well‑known brands
• Discounts on HP products
• EE mobile contract discount offers
• Gym discounts
• Health Shield (discounted premiums on health care cash plan)
• Regit Assist 24/7 accident helpline – free joining

A Little Bit About Us

Established in 1954, Vp plc has evolved into a dynamic group of companies with expertise in equipment rental. Our organisation encompasses seven prominent operating divisions: Airpac Rentals, Brandon Hire Station, ESS, Groundforce, TPA, Torrent Trackside, and UK Forks.

Across these divisions, we proudly provide an extensive range of specialist products and comprehensive services tailored to various industries. Our offerings cater to diverse sectors such as construction, civil engineering, rail, water, oil and gas, outdoor events, and housebuilding.

With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, Vp plc is your trusted partner for all your equipment rental needs.

Vp plc is an equal opportunities employer. We believe passionately that employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We make recruiting decisions based on your experience and skills.