Aviation Cyber Security Lead

Aviation Cyber Security Lead

Department: Cyber Services and Capabilities

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: G  London

Reporting To: Gary Cannon

Role:
Cyber Security Aviation Lead (Global Transport)

Locations:
Cheltenham, Manchester or London - Hybrid/Global Remit

We are seeking a highly skilled Cyber Security Aviation Lead to join our Global Transport Practice. This role will serve as the subject‑matter expert (SME) for aviation cyber security, covering operational technology (OT), safety‑critical aviation systems, and regulatory standards across the global aviation ecosystem.

You will play a pivotal role in shaping NCC Group’s aviation offerings, supporting delivery, mentoring colleagues, engaging clients, and driving growth in the aviation market. While aviation is the primary focus, the role also offers opportunities to work across rail, maritime, and automotive with full support from the wider transport team.

This is a client‑facing, collaborative, and technically hands‑on role suited to someone with solid aviation cyber experience who can also support business development activities.

Aviation Cyber Security Leadership

• Act as the global aviation cyber security SME, providing expert knowledge of:
• Part-IS and other aviation‑specific security frameworks
• ISA/IEC 62443 requirements and application to aviation OT
• Penetration testing techniques relevant to OT and aviation systems
• Avionics, airport infrastructure, ground systems, airline operational technologies
• Lead and oversee cyber engagements within the aviation ecosystem, including:
• Airports, ANSPs, MNO, airlines, OEMs, ground handling, avionics suppliers
• Safety‑critical OT networks and mission‑critical control systems

Technical Delivery

• Perform and/or lead OT penetration testing
• Threat modelling and risk assessments
• Security architecture review for aviation technologies
• Compliance assessments and gap analyses (Part-IS, 62443, NIS2 where applicable)
• Oversee technical quality, ensuring best‑in‑class delivery to clients.

Business Development & Practice Growth

• Support the creation and refinement of NCC Group’s aviation services and propositions.
• Work with business development teams to identify opportunities, create proposals, participate in client meetings and presentations, and represent NCC Group at aviation cyber conferences, industry forums, and working groups.

Collaboration & Cross‑Transport Support

• Operate as part of the wider Global Transport Practice, contributing to multi‑modal cyber projects.
• When required (and with team support), step into cyber roles in rail, maritime, automotive, and work closely with colleagues across geographies to develop integrated cyber security solutions.

Knowledge Sharing & Mentoring

• Coach and mentor internal consultants on aviation cyber security concepts, systems, and regulations.
• Develop internal guidance, training materials, and workbooks/playbooks.
• Promote a collaborative, high‑performance culture.

Client Engagement

• Act as a trusted advisor to stakeholders at all levels.
• Ensure exceptional client experience through clear communication, professionalism, and delivery excellence.
• Build long‑term relationships with global aviation customers.

Essential Experience & Skills

• Proven experience in the aviation ecosystem, such as working with airports, airlines, OEMs, avionics manufacturers, ANSPs

Strong understanding of aviation operational technologies and safety‑critical systems.

Knowledge of:

• Part-IS
• ISA/IEC 62443
• OT networks, architectures, and protocols
• Security risk assessment in safety‑critical environments

Hands‑on cyber security experience, such as:

• Penetration testing (OT preferred)
• Threat modelling
• Incident response
• Architecture review
• Comfortable providing client‑facing advisory services.
• Experience working in or with regulated environments.
• Ability to simplify complex cyber concepts for diverse audiences.

Desirable Skills

• Certifications (one or more): GICSP, CISSP, CISM, CRT/OSCP, CISA, CCSFP, 62443 certificates, CREST
• Background in engineering, avionics, or airport operations.
• Experience with NIS/NIS2, EASA, FAA, ICAO cyber requirements.
• Experience contributing to sales or pre‑sales…