Head of IT & Security

Interim to Permanent Opportunity | London (Hybrid) | Immediate Start AvailableLead IT, Cyber Security and Technology Transformation at ECA International What if you could join a growing global technology business, make an immediate impact, and have the opportunity to become a permanent member of the leadership team? ECA International is looking for an experienced Head of IT & Cyber Security to join us on an interim basis, with a genuine opportunity to transition into a permanent role. We're a global HR technology business trusted by organisations around the world to simplify international mobility through market-leading data, software and insight. Backed by private equity and investing heavily in our technology, products and people, this is an exciting time to join our journey. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys building, improving and leading from the front. You'll oversee IT Operations, Cyber Security and Infrastructure, while helping shape the future of our technology function as the business continues to grow. Why Join ECA? Make an immediate impact in a growing global SaaS business. Lead both IT Operations and Cyber Security. Work closely with the CTO and senior leadership team. Influence technology strategy, security and operational excellence. Join on an interim basis with a genuine opportunity to become a permanent member of the leadership team. Hybrid working from our London office. The Opportunity You'll lead a high-performing IT team responsible for delivering secure, reliable and scalable technology services across the business. This is a broad leadership role where you'll balance strategic thinking with a hands-on approach, helping the team deliver an outstanding internal technology service while continually improving security, infrastructure and operational maturity. You'll also play a key role in supporting our cloud-first environment, working closely with Engineering, DevOps and Product teams as ECA continues to evolve its technology platform. Key Responsibilities Lead the IT Operations and Cyber Security functions. Develop and deliver the IT and Security roadmap aligned to business objectives. Own cyber security, governance, risk and compliance across the business. Ensure the stability, resilience and security of our cloud-based infrastructure. Work closely with Engineering and DevOps teams to support modern software delivery. Drive continual improvement across IT services, automation and operational efficiency. Lead incident management, disaster recovery and business continuity planning. Manage external technology suppliers and strategic partners. Develop and mentor a high-performing IT team. Manage budgets, technology investments and vendor relationships. Provide regular reporting and recommendations to senior leadership. We're looking for someone who has successfully led IT Operations and Cyber Security within a modern SaaS or technology business. You'll ideally bring: Experience leading both IT Operations and Cyber Security. Strong cloud experience (AWS preferred). Experience working alongside DevOps and Engineering teams. Experience leading ISO 27001 and wider security governance programmes. Strong knowledge of cyber security, risk management and compliance. Experience leading technology transformation and infrastructure modernisation. Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to communicate at Executive level. A hands-on leadership style and willingness to roll your sleeves up when required. An interest in AI and automation, and how they can improve IT Operations and Security. Experience: Proven experience in IT management with a strong focus on cybersecurity, preferably in a multi-location or global organisation. Experience in developing and implementing IT security strategies and managing IT infrastructure. Experience in conducting security risk assessments and managing security incidents. Skills and Behaviours: Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to lead a team of IT and security professionals. Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with a strategic approach to managing IT operations and security. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders. Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency in IT management and security tools, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment software. Ability to stay current with emerging IT security trends, technologies, and threats. What’s in it for you 💼 Enhanced Stakeholder Pension Contribution 🌴 25 days annual leave 🏥 Health, Life Insurance + EAP Wellbeing Support 💰 Eligible for Annual Bonus Scheme 🎉 Long Service Awards 🏋️‍♀️ ClassPass Membership 👶 Enhanced Family Leave 📚 Up to £1,000 per year for personal development & training 🚆 Season Ticket Loan 🏠 Flexible/hybrid Work Environment 🚲 Cycle to Work Scheme 👓 Free Eye Test Interim to Permanent Opportunity This role is being offered initially on an interim basis as we continue our technology transformation. For the right individual, there is a genuine opportunity to move into a permanent leadership position. We're particularly interested in speaking with candidates who are available immediately or at short notice. Why This Role? This isn't simply about keeping the lights on. It's an opportunity to shape the future of IT and Cyber Security within a growing international technology business, influence senior stakeholders, build on an already strong team and play a key role in ECA's next phase of growth. If you're looking for an opportunity where you can make an immediate impact—with the potential to build something long term—we'd love to hear from you. Our Team and Culture We are a super friendly team that thrives on collaboration and supporting each other. We cultivate an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best work, helping us to realise our ambitious growth goals and mission. Our hybrid working structure includes spending around two days a week at our Head Office in Holborn, London, in a great space filled with creative, colourful.