Assistant Director of Technology & Security

Allen Lane are delighted to be supporting Southwark Council in the appointment of an Assistant Director of Technology & Security.

This is a rare opportunity to help write the technology and change playbook for one of London’s most ambitious boroughs. Reporting to the Director of Digital & Resident Experience, you'll join a newly formed leadership team with the mandate, freedom and backing to transform how technology enables services for over 300,000 residents.

At a time of significant investment and change, Southwark is modernising its digital, data and technology landscape, bringing services closer to residents, strengthening cyber resilience, embracing AI and building a future-ready in-house technology capability. If you're an inspiring technology leader who combines operational excellence with innovation and strategic vision, we'd love to hear from you.

The role

As Assistant Director of Technology & Security, you will:

• Lead the council’s technology operations, infrastructure, networks and cyber security functions, ensuring secure, resilient and high-performing services.
• Shape and deliver a technology-enabled transformation agenda that improves resident experience, workforce productivity and service efficiency.
• Drive the transition from legacy and shared-service arrangements to a modern, sustainable in-house operating model.
• Champion innovation, AI adoption and modern Microsoft technologies while maintaining stability, security and public trust.
• Lead strategic supplier, commercial and budget management across a significant technology portfolio.
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior executives and elected members on technology strategy, risk, investment and digital transformation.

What we're looking for

We're seeking an exceptional technology leader who brings:

• Proven experience leading enterprise-scale technology operations, infrastructure and cyber security services.
• A track record of delivering complex digital and organisational transformation while maintaining operational resilience.
• Strong expertise in cyber security, technology risk, governance and regulatory compliance.
• Experience shaping technology strategy, enterprise architecture and modern digital platforms, including AI-enabled services.
• The ability to influence and build credibility at executive, political and partner levels.
• A passion for developing inclusive, high-performing teams and designing services around the needs of residents and communities.

Why Southwark?

• A genuine opportunity to create rather than inherit, shaping the future technology landscape from the ground up.
• Backing for innovation, AI adoption and bold thinking at the heart of a major London borough.
• The chance to improve outcomes for residents through technology that is inclusive, secure and human-centred.
• Flexible and hybrid working, with collaboration from Southwark's vibrant London Bridge headquarters.

What you get in return

A salary between £86,652-£108,462 plus JNC Benefit of £3503 and excellent benefits

How to apply

Please submit your CV to southwark@allenlane.co.uk alongside a supporting statement (no more than 2 pages) stating why you’d like to apply and how your skills and experience meet the key criteria outlined in the job description.

Timetable

• Closing Date – Sunday 14th June at 23:59
• 1st stage Interviews W/c 22nd June
• Technical interviews – W/c 29th June
• Final Panel interviews – W/c 6th July