Head of Security Engineering – Application Security & Security Testing
Apply for the Head of Security Engineering – Application Security & Security Testing role at Tesco Technology.
About the role
Tesco Technology’s Security Engineering function is responsible for proactively identifying and mitigating risks across our technology estate. As Head of Security Engineering – Application Security & Testing, you will lead a multi‑disciplinary function that spans vulnerability management, application security engineering, and adversarial testing. You will be accountable for delivering full‑stack security assurance—from code to infrastructure—through a blend of engineering innovation and operational excellence.
Why This Role Matters
This is a pivotal leadership role within Tesco Technology, shaping how we secure our platforms and products. You’ll be at the forefront of driving innovation in security engineering, ensuring Tesco remains resilient against evolving threats while enabling safe and secure technology delivery.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Management
* Lead three Security Engineering Managers and their teams (approx. 20+ engineers), plus a Principal Security Engineer/Architect.
* Foster collaboration across teams focused on external attack surface management, bug bounty operations, application security engineering, penetration testing and adversarial simulation, and talent development.
* Develop talent, coach leaders, and build succession plans for long‑term capability growth.
Security Engineering & Testing
* Oversee design, deployment and operation of tools and solutions that identify vulnerabilities across the full stack—code, applications, infrastructure, packages and external assets.
* Ensure robust security testing capabilities are in place to support business projects and strategic initiatives.
* Drive continuous improvement in testing methodologies, coverage and automation.
Strategic Execution
* Translate strategic goals into actionable plans under Tesco’s Tech Excellence programme.
* Monitor delivery progress, operational metrics and team performance.
* Ensure alignment with broader security and technology objectives.
Cross‑Functional Collaboration
* Work closely with peers including the Heads of Security Partnerships, Cyber Defence and Platform Security Architecture.
* Partner with Product and Programme teams to embed security into delivery pipelines.
* Act as a key point of contact for senior stakeholders across Tesco Technology.
Qualifications
* Proven experience leading large‑scale security engineering functions.
* Deep technical expertise in vulnerability management, application security and adversarial testing.
* Strong understanding of secure development practices and modern engineering tooling.
* Experience with ASPM platforms, threat modelling and GenAI‑driven security solutions.
* Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands‑on execution.
* Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
* Familiarity with operational metrics and performance tracking.
Benefits
* Annual bonus scheme up to 45% of base salary.
* Car allowance of £7,320 per annum.
* Holiday starting at 25 days plus a personal day (plus Bank holidays).
* Private medical insurance.
* Retirement savings plan: save 6‑10% & Tesco contributes 1.5x.
* 26 weeks maternity and adoption leave at full pay, followed by 13 weeks statutory maternity/adoption pay, plus 6 weeks fully paid paternity leave.
About Us
Our vision at Tesco is to become every customer’s favourite way to shop. We are committed to an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and our workplace values diversity. Tesco is a Disability Confident Leader and provides an accessible recruitment process.
Job Details
* Seniority level: Executive
* Employment type: Full‑time
* Job function: Engineering and Information Technology
* Industry: Retail
* Location: London, England, United Kingdom
#J-18808-Ljbffr