Head of IT

About the role

We’re hiring a Head of IT to design and lead the infrastructure powering our fast-growing biotech company. You’ll define our IT roadmap, implement secure and scalable systems, and ensure compliance across cloud platforms and collaboration tools. From LIMS to cybersecurity, you'll shape our digital infrastructure and safeguard our data. This is a high-impact leadership role with cross-functional reach—from R&D to Legal—and the chance to build a world-class IT & security function from the ground up.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Develop and execute the overall IT roadmap in line with scientific, operational, and business needs.
• Lead implementation and lifecycle management of business-critical systems (e.g. LIMS, ELNs, data storage, collaboration tools).
• Define and implement security policies (access control, data protection, secure development, device management).
• Lead risk assessments, threat modelling, and internal audits.
• Achieve and ensure compliance with relevant frameworks (e.g. Cyber Essentials,
• GDPR, if applicable).
• Coordinate security incident response plans and employee training.
• Oversee security across cloud infrastructure (e.g. Azure, AWS, GCP) and SaaS platforms.
• Build and lead IT & security function as the company grows.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams: R&D, QA, HR, Legal, Data, and external vendors.
• Report regularly to the executive team on infrastructure performance, risk posture, and upcoming needs.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in IT leadership roles, preferably in fast-growing or regulated environments (biotech, health tech, pharma, etc.)
• Strong track record of managing IT infrastructure and cloud-based environments (EntraAD, Slack, Azure, etc.).
• In-depth knowledge of information security principles and best practices
• Experience implementing or working within ISO 27001, NIST, or similar frameworks
• Hands-on familiarity with SSO, MDM, endpoint protection, network security, and SaaS risk management
• Strong stakeholder management and excellent communication skills

Desirable

• Prior experience in a life sciences or research-intensive environment
• Familiarity with GxP/CSV, HIPAA, or GDPR in data and system handling
• Experience supporting scientific computing environments or high-performance computing (HPC)
• Technical certifications (e.g. CISSP, CISM, AWS Security, ISO Lead Implementer)