It system lead

Job Title

IT Systems, Cyber & Infrastructure Lead (SFIA Level 5+)

Salary

£45,000 - £65,000 basic

Location

Weston-\u2013Super-Mare (office based)

Overview

A growing UK-based engineering and R&D organisation is seeking a hands‑on IT Systems, Cyber & Infrastructure Lead to take ownership of its internal IT environment. The role is responsible for ensuring secure, stable, and well‑structured IT operations across corporate and technical systems, supporting both business operations and project delivery.

Environment

The IT estate includes Microsoft 365 (E5), Azure, Windows/Linux systems, and Fortinet-based networking (firewalls, VPN, switching, failover), along with isolated technical environments supporting R&D work.

Role Purpose

To provide technical leadership and full operational ownership of IT infrastructure, ensuring systems are secure, reliable, and consistently managed. The role embeds cyber security into day‑to‑day operations and reduces reliance on external support through improved internal capability and control.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and manage the end‑to‑end IT estate across infrastructure, cloud, and endpoints
• Define and enforce system standards, access controls, and configuration policies
• Lead cyber security implementation aligned to recognised frameworks (e.g. ISO27001, Cyber Essentials Plus)
• Manage network infrastructure including firewalls, VPNs, switching, and segmentation
• Oversee Azure and Microsoft 365 environments, including identity, access, and device management
• Support and standardise Windows/Linux and specialist development environments
• Ensure controlled integration of external, contractor, and remote access
• Maintain clear technical documentation and system visibility
• Line‑manage and develop junior IT staff
• Report on system health, risks, and improvements to senior leadership

Requirements

• Significant experience in IT infrastructure / systems leadership (SFIA Level 5+ equivalent)
• Strong hands‑on expertise with Microsoft 365, networking, and enterprise IT systems
• Experience with Azure (desirable) and Linux environments (beneficial)
• Knowledge of cyber security frameworks and secure system design
• Ability to operate in structured, controlled, and standards‑driven environments
• Eligible for UK security clearance (SC level)

Success Measures (6-12 months)

• Clear ownership and control of IT systems
• Stable, well‑documented infrastructure and cloud environments
• Reduced reliance on external support
• Improved internal capability and governance alignment
• Stronger security posture across all systems

Working Model

Full‑time, office‑based role. Weston‑Super‑Mare office location.

Reports to senior IT leadership / board‑level IT function. Manages IT Technician / Apprentice.

Security Clearance

Eligible for UK security clearance (SC level). Candidates holding or who have held high‑level security clearance in the past are most welcome to apply. Successful applicants will be required to be security cleared prior to appointment which can take a minimum 10 weeks.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of background or identity, and we encourage candidates who may not meet every listed requirement to still apply. If you require any adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will work with you to ensure a fair and accessible experience.