Head of Digital Risk and Security

Review: Head of Digital Risk & Security at Stagecoach

Stagecoach is presenting an exciting opportunity for a seasoned leader to take the helm of their digital risk and security strategy. This role, based in their Stockport office with hybrid working options, is designed for a forward-thinking individual eager to shape the future of cyber resilience within a prominent national organisation. If you're passionate about embedding security into digital transformation and influencing decisions at a senior level, this could be your next impactful career move.

Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Strategic Impact: This is a senior leadership position with the direct responsibility of designing and leading the enterprise-wide information and cyber security strategy. You will have the autonomy to influence how security is integrated into all aspects of Stagecoach's operations, from digital transformation initiatives to day-to-day processes.
• Shaping the Future: The role offers a unique chance to "shape the future of cyber resilience" at a well-recognised public transport brand. Your work will directly contribute to the safety, resilience, and compliance of systems and data that support millions of journeys across the UK.
• Career Growth and Influence: You'll be partnering with executive leadership, including the CIO, and reporting on security posture and risk. This provides excellent visibility and the opportunity to influence Board-level decisions, a significant advantage for career advancement.
• Team Leadership: You will have the opportunity to build and lead a high-performing, diverse security team, encompassing governance, operations, threat intelligence, and incident response. This is a chance to mentor and develop talent within a critical function.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Stagecoach offers a competitive salary, car allowance, bonus potential, and a pension scheme, alongside the flexibility of hybrid working, demonstrating a commitment to employee well-being and recognition.
• Mission-Driven Organisation: Joining Stagecoach means becoming part of a mission-led business focused on safety, sustainability, and innovation. This aligns with a desire to contribute to a purpose beyond just technical excellence.
• Inclusive Culture: Stagecoach emphasizes an inclusive culture where diverse contributions are valued, offering a welcoming environment for all candidates.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Senior Leadership Experience: The role requires proven senior leadership experience in information security, particularly within regulated and complex organisations. Candidates should be able to demonstrate a track record of success in this domain.
• Technical and Regulatory Acumen: A strong understanding of cyber threats, modern security controls, frameworks like NIST and ISO 27001, and legal requirements such as GDPR is essential. Experience in designing and implementing enterprise-wide risk governance and security roadmaps will be crucial.
• Stakeholder Management: The ability to effectively partner with various teams (Technology, People, Legal, Operations) and communicate complex security concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences is paramount. Influencing skills will be key to embedding security across the organisation.
• Data Protection Focus: Leading the data protection strategy means a significant focus on ensuring compliance, security, and the highest standards of safeguarding personal information.
• Incident Response Capability: Experience in managing incident response efforts, including containment, investigation, and recovery, is a vital component of this role.
• Third-Party Risk Management: Confidence in managing third-party risk, along with continuity planning, is explicitly mentioned as a requirement.
• Professional Development: While not mandatory, professional certifications such as CISSP, CISM, or CISA are desirable. Candidates holding these certifications will likely have a stronger foundation for the technical and strategic demands of the role.

This Head of Digital Risk & Security position at Stagecoach presents a substantial opportunity for a skilled and motivated leader to make a significant impact within a vital sector. It is an excellent platform for those looking to leverage their expertise to enhance digital resilience and drive strategic security initiatives at a national level.