Overview
The OT Security Specialist will serve as a strategic and technical leader within GKN’s OneIT function, responsible for driving global, local, and cross-functional improvements in Operational Technology (OT) security. This role supports OT security capabilities, ensuring alignment with the IEC 62443 framework and NIST 800-82, GKN internal policies, and industry best practices. The successful candidate will act as a conduit between IT, OT domains and stakeholders in manufacturing engineering and the plants, enabling secure convergence and resilience across manufacturing environments. This role requires experience of security in both OT and IT environments.
Responsibilities
* Lead the development and execution of the global OT security strategy in alignment with GKN’s enterprise security roadmap.
* Conduct OT security maturity assessments using IEC 62443 and integrate findings into strategic planning.
* Maintain and evolve the OT risk register, ensuring integration with enterprise risk management frameworks.
* Define and enforce OT specific security policies, standards, and procedures.
* Oversee OT asset discovery, network segmentation, and secure architecture design.
* Support vulnerability management, patching, and incident response across OT environments.
* Provide expert guidance on secure design and configuration for OT systems and industrial protocols (e.g., SCADA, PLCs, HMI).
* Ensure compliance with IEC 62443, NIST 800-82, TISAX, ISO 27001, and other relevant standards.
* Act as the primary OT security liaison for plant managers, engineering teams, automation vendors, and IT security.
* Drive awareness and training initiatives tailored to OT environments and operational constraints.
* Contribute to the convergence of IT and OT security operations.
Qualifications
* Strong knowledge of IEC 62443, NIST 800-82, NIST CSF, TISAX, and ISO 27001.
* Familiarity with industrial control systems (SCADA, HMI, PLCs) and protocols.
* Strong analytical, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills.
* Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence across technical and non-technical audiences.
* Degree in Cybersecurity, Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).
* Preferred certifications: CISSP, CISM, TOGAF, SABSA, or IEC 62443-specific credentials.
* Demonstrated experience in designing and implementing OT security architectures and controls.
* Automotive industry experience is highly desirable.
About GKN Automotive
GKN Automotive is a world-leading global automotive technology company at the forefront of innovation. Its origins date back to 1759 and for the last 70 years it has been putting key technologies into series production. We are the trusted partner for most of the world's automotive companies, specialising in developing, building, and supplying market-leading drive systems and advanced ePowertrain technologies. GKN Automotive is part of Dowlais Group plc, a specialist engineering group focused on the automotive sector. We are the market leader in conventional, all-wheel and electrified drive systems and solutions. With a comprehensive global footprint, we design, develop, manufacture and integrate an extensive range of driveline technologies for over 90% of the world’s car manufacturers. Our global teams bring together diverse cultures, skills and perspectives to spark originality and creativity.
Benefits
+ Attractive salary and benefits at a stable and financially healthy company
+ An organisation where you can commit to the long-term
+ Working in the OneIT team with colleagues around the globe
GKN Automotive is an equal opportunity employer. We treat all our employees and applicants fairly and are committed to ensuring that there is no discrimination or harassment against any employee or qualified applicant on the grounds of age, race, creed, colour, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process. Please contact us to request any such accommodation.
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