Security, Hosting and Infrastructure Lead

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s DDAT department is looking to recruit an experienced and motivated Security, Hosting and Infrastructure Lead to manage the Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT) operational area, including operational security, network and hosting arrangements, ensuring an absolute focus on business need and user access in their provision. The role is responsible for a revenue budget of £400,000 per annum and will support the capital investment decisions around an infrastructure and 3rd party spend of £1.4 million., * Lead and motivate the Security, Hosting and Networks team, driving innovation and high performance as part of the DDaT service management leadership team.

• Oversee the Council’s hosting, network and security services (physical and virtual), shaping and delivering the infrastructure strategy to meet current and future needs.
• Manage asset and configuration processes, ensuring accurate records, secure configurations and value for money across the full lifecycle.
• Ensure availability and capacity meet business demand and performance expectations.
• Lead incident and problem management in partnership with the digital commissioning team, ensuring consistent processes across internal and third-party services.
• Coordinate testing and user engagement, ensuring effective planning and delivery of functional and non-functional requirements.
• Drive service level management, ensuring services meet agreed standards, KPIs and best practice throughout the lifecycle.
• Maintain operational security and compliance, including infrastructure standards, external testing, patching and system updates, with clear reporting.
• Champion continuous improvement, ensuring seamless, high-quality services through effective SLAs and OLAs across internal and external providers.

The ideal candidate will have a degree level qualification, or equivalent experience, with significant professional expertise in ICT/digital services. You will bring strong leadership experience, with a proven track record of managing complex digital infrastructure programmes and delivering innovative technology solutions that meet business needs.

You will be experienced in working across large, multi-functional organisations, confidently engaging and influencing stakeholders up to director level, and translating technical concepts into clear, accessible language. A strong background in operational ICT service management is essential, including areas such as cloud services, networks, cybersecurity, service desk functions, and supplier management.

You will demonstrate experience of driving change and continuous improvement, managing risk in complex environments, and delivering services in fast-paced, politically aware settings. Strong programme and project management skills are key, alongside the ability to balance competing priorities and deliver to tight deadlines.

The successful candidate will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build high-performing teams and strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. You will be analytical, proactive and resilient, with a focus on delivering secure, efficient and high-quality digital services that support organisational priorities.

Desirable qualifications and knowledge include ITIL, PRINCE2 Agile, and relevant technical or leadership certifications, alongside a commitment to ongoing professional development.