Critical Asset and Classification Lead

As the Critical Asset and Classification Lead, you will be part of the Information Security team, focused on identifying, managing, and protecting Thames Water’s most critical data assets, often referred to as “crown jewels.” This role will also lead the development and implementation of data classification methodologies to ensure appropriate protection based on sensitivity and importance.

The role will be based in Reading and will report directly to the Head of Governance, Risk and Compliance, working to deliver the company's goals for a fit-for-purpose critical asset and classification framework. This is a role that requires independence, a proactive approach to a fast-paced environment, and a strong sense of accountability to meet and drive the needs of the program.

What you’ll be doing as the Critical Asset and Classification Lead:

• Critical Asset Framework Development: Lead the development and ongoing refresh of the framework for identifying and protecting critical information systems and data assets.
• Data Classification Methodology: Design and implement methodologies to classify data assets based on sensitivity, criticality, and business importance.
• Security Controls Monitoring: Assign and monitor appropriate security controls aligned with system criticality and data classification standards.
• Asset Register Management: Maintain and periodically review registers for both critical information systems and information assets.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate with business and digital teams to identify, score, and categorise critical assets and ensure alignment with strategic security objectives.
• Compliance & Best Practice: Ensure data classification and asset management practices align with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Awareness & Training: Educate stakeholders and employees on data classification standards and practices.
• Exception Management: Track and manage exceptions to classification or control frameworks and report progress to senior management.

Base Location: Hybrid – Clearwater Court, Reading
Working Pattern: Full Time / 36 Hours per week

What you should bring to the role:
Essential Experience:

• Information Security: Experience working in information security.
• Regulatory and Framework Knowledge: Familiarity with frameworks and regulations such as CIS, NIS-R, and GDPR.
• Collaboration Across Functions: Proven experience working with multiple business units and stakeholder groups.
• Data Asset Management: Experience supporting the classification of data and management of critical information systems.

Essential Skills & Qualifications:

• Critical Asset & Data Classification: Proven ability to develop and manage critical asset and data classification registers.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, able to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Analytical Skills: Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and documentation abilities.
• Self-Starter: Ability to work independently and take initiative in driving program outcomes.

Desirable Experience:

• Information Asset Register Delivery: Experience delivering and maintaining critical and information asset registers.
• Risk Management: Exposure to or experience in information risk management practices.

Desirable Technical Skills & Qualifications:

• Industry Certifications: Certifications such as CISSP, CISM, or CISA.

Key Relationships & Interactions:

• CISO direct reports: Security Operations Manager, Security Architecture Manager, Security Governance Manager, Cyber Security Programme Manager, Cyber Resilience Manager
• CIO and CIO Direct Reports: Operational Technology, Enterprise Architects, PMO and Programme Delivery, Business Change and Engagement
• Key Business Stakeholders
• Service Owners

What’s in it for you?

• Competitive salary up to £72,600 per annum depending on experience
• Annual Leave - 26 days holiday per year increasing to 30 with the length of service (plus bank holidays)
• Generous Pension Scheme through AON
• Access to lots of benefits to help you take care of you and your family’s health and wellbeing, and your finances – from annual health MOTs and access to physiotherapy and counselling, to Cycle to Work schemes, shopping vouchers and life assurance.

Find out more about our benefits and perks

Who are we?
We’re the UK’s largest water and wastewater company, with more than 16 million customers relying on us every day to supply water for their taps and toilets. We want to build a better future for all, helping our customers, communities, people, and the planet to thrive. It’s a big job and we’ve got a long way to go, so we need help from passionate and skilled people, committed to making a difference and getting us to where we want to be in the years and decades to come.

Learn more about our purpose and values

Working at Thames Water
Thames Water is a unique, rewarding, and diverse place to work, where every day you can make a difference, yet no day is the same. As part of our family, you’ll enjoy fast-tracked career opportunities, flexible working arrangements and excellent benefits.

Whether you’re interested in a role in one of our call centres or science labs, we’re looking for people like you with real passion and a burning desire to make things better.

So, if you’re looking for a sustainable and successful career where you can make a daily difference to millions of people’s lives while helping to protect the world of water for future generations, we’ll be here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can build a better future for our customers, our region and our planet.

Real purpose, real support, real opportunities. Come and join the Thames Water family. Why choose us? Learn more.

Our overarching aim is to ensure that Thames Water is great, diverse, and inclusive place to work. We welcome applications from everyone and offer extra support for those who need it throughout the recruitment process. Our aim is to remove any real or perceived barriers to success, so if you need assistance, we’re here to help and support.

When a crisis happens, we all rally around to support our customers. As part of Team Thames, you’ll have the opportunity to sign up to support our customers on the frontline as an ambassador. Full training will be given for what is undoubtedly an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s also a great opportunity to learn more about our business and meet colleagues.

Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications we receive, we may close the advert earlier than the advertised date, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.