Security Operations Leader: Steer Cyber Defense

United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory Limited; Risley; Remote; GBP 69,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory Limited (UKNNL) is seeking a Security Operations Manager within the Technology and Cyber Services (TCS) team. You will lead end-to-end security operations to prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber threats, aligning activities with the CISO strategy and risk appetite.

The role offers a flexible location around Risley, Workington or Preston and requires proven leadership, incident response, threat intelligence, and collaboration with internal

Qualifications

• Experience in cyber security operations within regulated or critical infrastructure environments.
• Proven leadership of security operations teams and/or managed security services (SOC/MSOC).
• Experience managing security incidents and crisis-level response; able to operate under pressure.
• Strong understanding of incident response and digital forensics.
• Strong understanding of threat intelligence and threat hunting.
• Strong understanding of vulnerability management and security controls.
• Strong understanding security testing, assurance, and audit practices.
• Experience working with regulators, auditors, and compliance frameworks.
• Demonstrated ability to translate strategy into operational capability.
• Experience managing third-party suppliers and service providers.
• Degree or higher in a related subject.
• Evidence of related relevant operations certifications and training.
• Ability to obtain SC level security clearance (this includes but is not limited to identity, employment, financial and criminal record checks plus 5 years’ worth of UK residency).

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop UKNNL’s end-to-end security operations capability.
• Own and continuously improve security monitoring, detection, and response.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external providers to drive performance.
• Lead operational management of security incidents, including larger incidents.
• Define and deliver a structured security testing and exercising programme.
• Develop roadmaps aligned to strategic objectives and emerging threats.
• Support other cyber security sections as needed.

Skills

Cyber security operations

Security incident response

Digital forensics

Threat intelligence

Vulnerability management

Security governance

Regulatory/compliance

Third-party management

Leadership experience

Strategic operations

Education

Degree in related subject

Relevant certifications

Job description

United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory Limited (UKNNL) is seeking a Security Operations Manager within the Technology and Cyber Services (TCS) team. You will lead end-to-end security operations to prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber threats, aligning activities with the CISO strategy and risk appetite.

The role offers a flexible location around Risley, Workington or Preston and requires proven leadership, incident response, threat intelligence, and collaboration with internal