IT Systems Lead

IT Systems Lead - London - Hybrid

£70,000 - £90,000 (dependent on experience) + Equity & Benefits

Help Build Europe's Hypersonic Capability

This organisation is redefining what's possible in European defence technology, delivering speed, resilience, and technological independence at a pace that sets a new standard. Operating as a small, elite, and highly capable team, it focuses on solving complex, high-impact problems quickly and effectively.

They are seeking an IT Systems Lead to take ownership of core IT infrastructure and operations within a talent-dense environment where every individual has a direct impact. This is not a predefined or siloed position, it is an opportunity for a high-calibre operator to shape, build, and run IT systems from the ground up, with the autonomy to define best practice and standards.

The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring secure, reliable, and scalable IT operations, directly contributing to the organisation's mission and Europe's broader technological independence.

The Role

The IT Systems Lead will:

• Own the Microsoft environment end-to-end, including Entra ID, Windows endpoints, Intune/Autopilot (or GPO where appropriate), and core Microsoft server services
• Build and operate IT infrastructure for a UK-based engineering workshop from the ground up, including secure network access, device provisioning, and endpoint compliance
• Define and implement a hardened baseline across all endpoints, including MFA enforcement, least-privilege access, patching strategies, encryption, and standardised security policies
• Act as the on-site IT authority, diagnosing and resolving issues quickly, documenting outcomes, and implementing preventative measures
• Partner closely with international IT teams (including Linux/Kubernetes environments) to ensure consistent identity, access, and security controls across regions
• Oversight and delivery of a new UK office move
• Maintain high operational standards through clear documentation, asset management, streamlined workflows, and responsive user support

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will bring:

• Proven experience owning and operating Microsoft environments in real-world settings (Entra ID, Windows endpoint management, Intune/GPO, and core server infrastructure)
• A security-first mindset, with strong understanding of access control, system hardening, and auditability
• The ability to operate autonomously with sound judgement, particularly in environments where they may be the sole on-site IT lead
• A practical, solutions-focused approach, prioritising root cause resolution, prevention, and long-term system integrity
• Experience working in fast-paced, high-performance environments where uptime, security, and delivery speed are critical
• Curiosity and willingness to collaborate across technology stacks, particularly with Linux and Kubernetes-based systems

Security Clearance

Due to the nature of the work, applicants must be British citizens (or dual nationals with British citizenship) and eligible for UK Security Clearance (SC), with the potential requirement for Developed Vetting (DV).

What's on Offer

• The opportunity to contribute directly to one of Europe's most consequential defence and technology challenges
• High ownership and autonomy, with full responsibility for shaping IT systems and standards
• Close collaboration with leading experts across engineering, operations, and defence
• A fast-paced environment where ideas are implemented quickly and outcomes matter
• A culture built on clarity, integrity, and excellence, supporting individuals who take initiative and operate with accountability
• Competitive compensation and meaningful equity aligned to impact and responsibility

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