Head of Information Security

Company Description

At S&W, we help our clients thrive by simplifying the complex, illuminating new paths, and shaping solutions that make a difference. As one of the UK’s top 10 fastest-growing accountancy firms, we have been a trusted partner since 1881—helping businesses and individuals meet challenges and seize opportunities across generations.

Built on expertise and driven by ambition, we provide a comprehensive range of services, including tax and accountancy, advisory and assurance, corporate finance, and restructuring. We are defined by our purpose—to help navigate challenges, unlock potential, and achieve the extraordinary.

Job Description

We have an exciting opportunity for a Head of Information Security to oversee and protect the evolving landscape of cyber threats, regulatory requirements and digital operations. S&W are facing multiple threats and are vulnerable to the breaches as recently seen in the retail industry including M&S, Co-Op and Harrods.

Attackers are increasingly targeting supply chains, critical infrastructure and customer data leading to massive disruption and costs, we need to do all we can to protect against these risks. We currently have an interim Head of Information Security. We need you to introduce a long-term strategy, gain deep knowledge of the organisation, carry out line management for permanent colleagues and to help build out the Information Security team as we grow in maturity and size

Qualifications

As Head of Information Security, your responsibilities will include among others

• Define and lead S&Ws Information Security Strategy, policy, and execution
• Oversee governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) programmes including ISO 27001, NIST and other relevant standards
• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing security team
• Provide regular updates to the Executive leadership on security risks, posture, and roadmap
• Lead internal and external security audits and drive continual improvement
• Establish and manage incident response protocols and business continuity plans

Skills and Experience

To be successful in this role, you should have experience

• Innovative thinking and leadership with an ability to lead and motivate cross-functional, multi-disciplinary teams
• Strong experience building and scaling security programs in dynamic environments
• Expert knowledge of modern security frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001)
• Experience with Cloud computing / elastic computing across virtualised environments with particular focus on Microsoft Azure
• Effective technology transformation background
• Ability to communicate effectively at multiple levels including business leaders, C-level management and engineers

Professional Qualifications and Education

• Professional security management certification including CISP or CISM
• Knowledge of common information security management frameworks, such as ISO/IEC 27001, and NIST
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and high level of personal integrity

Desired

• Experience in an Accountancy, Tax and Advisory or Professional Service organisation
• ISO 27001 Lead Implementor

Additional Information

As a colleague here at S&W you will have access to benefits that include

• Competitive salary
• Private medical insurance
• Life assurance
• Pension contribution
• Hybrid working model (role dependent)
• Generous holiday package
• Option to purchase additional holiday
• Shared parental leave
• Fully funded training towards professional qualifications
• Cycle to work scheme
• Season ticket loan
• Eye care support

We are proud to value the differences that a diverse workforce brings, representative of society and our clients. At S&W we have a wide range of highly active employee resource groups and we’re delivering multiple diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives across the organisation. It is our commitment to provide a workplace where all colleagues, regardless of identity, background, or circumstance, feel respected as individuals and feel that they can achieve their full potential and work in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.

We are happy to make any reasonable adjustments to accommodate for your needs throughout the application process. Please let your Recruiter know.