Head of Security Engineering – Application Security & Security Testing
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 multidisciplinary function spanning 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.
About the role
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 and bug bounty operations.
* Application security engineering (SAST, SCA, GenAI solutions, ASPM, threat modelling).
* Penetration testing and adversarial simulation (red/purple team strategy).
* Develop talent, coach leaders, and build succession plans for long‑term capability growth.
Security Engineering & Testing
* Oversee the 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 of 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 between 6%‑10% and Tesco will contribute 1.5× this amount.
* 26 weeks maternity and adoption leave (after 1 year’s service) at full pay, followed by 13 weeks of Statutory Maternity Pay or Statutory Adoption Pay, and 6 weeks fully paid paternity leave.
About Us
Our vision at Tesco is to become every customer’s favourite way to shop, whether at home or on the move. We recognise the value and opportunity of diversity, celebrate an inclusive culture, and are committed to ensuring all colleagues have the same opportunities. We are accredited Disability Confident Leader and offer an accessible recruitment process.
Seniority level
Executive
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Engineering and Information Technology
Industries: Retail
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