Security Operations Manager

The role

As Security Operations Manager, you will play a key role in protecting Outcomes First Group’s information systems, data, staff, and service users. You will lead and develop security operations capability across the organisation, ensuring robust detection, response, and resilience against cyber threats.

You will manage day-to-day security operations, oversee incident response, and work closely with third-party partners to maintain 24/7 operational security coverage. Using threat intelligence, proactive monitoring, and automation, you will continuously enhance OFG’s cyber security posture in line with the Cyber Security Strategy.

• Ensure OFG has effective capabilities in place to detect, respond to, and recover from security incidents.
• Liaise with a third-party managed service provider.
• Own and develop the incident response framework and playbooks, including regular testing and executive-level tabletop exercises.
• Lead and mature OFG’s threat intelligence capability, delivering actionable insights to operational teams and key stakeholders.
• Own the end-to-end vulnerability management programme, including penetration testing, remediation tracking, and risk mitigation.
• Manage and develop a team of security analysts, acting as an escalation point for operational security issues.
• Drive efficiency improvements through automation and the use of AI within security operations processes.
• Deliver regular management information and reporting on OFG’s security posture, identifying risks and recommending improvements.
• Conduct proactive threat hunting and monitoring across the technology estate to identify weaknesses and emerging threats.
• Identify key cyber risks to the organisation and collaborate with stakeholders to implement effective mitigation strategies.
• Support the delivery of cyber security projects aligned to OFG’s Cyber Security Strategy.
• Identify future security operations needs and develop capability to support organisational growth.

• Proven experience in a Cyber Security Manager, SOC Lead, or similar security operations leadership role.
• Demonstrable experience building, developing, or maturing security operations capabilities and playbooks.
• Strong experience implementing and managing vulnerability management programmes across large IT estates.
• Hands-on knowledge of security technologies such as SIEM, endpoint protection, email and web gateways.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to communicate complex security issues clearly.
• Experience of security investigations and incident response best practice; knowledge of Microsoft Purview and digital forensics is advantageous.
• Ideally, hands-on experience with Microsoft security technologies such as Defender, Intune, and Entra .
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with strong attention to detail and ownership mindset.
• CISSP or similar industry-recognised cyber security qualifications are desirable.

Outcomes First Group is the largest independent provider of high quality special needs education and care. We are a vital part of local communities in England, Scotland and Wales with a renowned reputation for quality and positive outcomes for the people we educate and care for.

Our divisional brands include Acorn Education, Options Autism, Blenheim Schools and Momenta Connect.

Empower every child, whatever their ability, with a world-class education that nurtures potential, inspires lifelong learning, and equips them to thrive in a diverse and evolving world.

We commit to unlocking our pupils’ potential through personalised learning, innovation, and opportunity, supporting growth and aspirations.

We Listen.

We never assume.

We work together.

To make the remarkable happen.

We are accountable.

Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you’ll get an exceptional reward package including:

• Life Assurance
• Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions
• “Your Wellbeing Matters” – access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks
• Family Growth Support – inclusive benefits…