About the Directorate
At IT&D, we’re shaping the University of the future by designing innovative ways of working, enhancing productivity, simplifying processes, supporting innovation, and providing valuable insights to drive continuous improvement. As we embrace a digital-first approach within a modern university environment, you’ll collaborate with academic and Professional Services teams to deliver digital services that align with the University’s strategic goals for teaching and research, both nationally and globally.
About the Department
The Information Security department is dedicated to safeguarding the University’s information assets through the development, operation, and improvement of robust security practices. Our role is to ensure the availability, confidentiality, and integrity of information, while aligning with the University’s operational needs.
We design security policies and procedures, offer expert advice on secure IT frameworks, provide training and practical guidance, and empower the University community to meet business objectives securely. Additionally, we oversee risk management, regulatory compliance, and systems monitoring to prevent, detect, and respond to potential cyber threats.
About the Team
The Cyber Security Operations team is central to protecting the University’s diverse digital environment. We defend students, staff, and systems by monitoring, identifying, and responding to cybersecurity threats across a dynamic and complex technology landscape.
As part of the wider Information Security function, this multi-skilled team of Security Analysts and Engineers collaborates with colleagues across IT&D to ensure a coordinated and effective cyber defence strategy. Our tools and services include a Security Operations Centre (SOC), vulnerability and threat monitoring, incident response, and rigorous security testing capabilities.
Our practices are aligned with globally recognised frameworks, such as the NCSC Cyber Assessment Framework (CAF), NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), and CIS Controls, ensuring we adopt industry-leading standards while tailoring our approach to the unique needs of the higher education sector.
Joining the team means becoming part of a supportive and collaborative environment that values innovation and professional development. Your work will have a meaningful and lasting impact. Looking ahead, the Cyber Security Operations team will lead on a transformative security and risk programme, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to enhancing cyber resilience at Manchester Met.
About the Role
We are seeking a talented and proactive Cyber Security Analyst to help safeguard our extensive digital ecosystem and support the development of a resilient, adaptive, and forward-thinking cybersecurity capability.
As a key member of the Cyber Security Operations team, you will play a pivotal role in monitoring, identifying, and responding to threats targeting the University’s systems. Working with a “Microsoft-first” security toolset — including Sentinel and Defender — you will deliver rapid and effective incident responses and threat analyses.
This is a hands-on operational position where your expertise directly contributes to the safety and integrity of the University’s digital assets. You will collaborate across IT&D and Information Security teams, contributing to the refinement of detection rules, the improvement of response playbooks, and the continuous enhancement of our cybersecurity posture.
Key Responsibilities
- Continuous Threat Monitoring: Actively monitor security events and alerts across the University’s IT systems using advanced security platforms to rapidly identify and assess potential threats.
- Incident Triage & Response: Perform thorough triage of security incidents to evaluate urgency and impact. Investigate occurrences, lead initial response efforts, and escalate critical matters to senior stakeholders or external partners as required.
- Threat Analysis & Intelligence Integration: Assess malicious activities to identify root causes and attack vectors, leveraging threat intelligence to contextualise findings, predict emerging risks, and enhance defences.
- Security Platform Expertise: Serve as a subject matter expert for security tools, including log analysis, endpoint protection, identity monitoring, and cloud application security.
- Vulnerability Identification & Management: Analyse vulnerability data sourced from internal scanning tools and external reports. Assess severity, exploitability, and impact, ensuring appropriate stakeholders are informed for timely remediation.
- Reporting & Communication: Create clear and actionable reports, incident summaries, trend analyses, and operational metrics. Share critical insights with IT teams to bolster security measures and increase awareness across the University.
Key Skills & Experience
- Practical experience in cyber security operations or as a SOC Analyst.
- Strong knowledge of Microsoft security tools and platforms.
- Analytical skills to process complex technical data and communicate findings effectively.
- Proven track record in handling security incidents and conducting investigations using KQL.
- Understanding of IT infrastructure, networking protocols, and threat detection methodologies.
- A collaborative mindset that fosters cooperation and supports continuous improvement.
Desirable Qualifications
- A degree in an IT-related field or equivalent professional experience.
- Industry certifications such as SC-200, CompTIA CYSA , GIAC (GCIA, GCIH), or similar.
To learn more about this exciting opportunity and the benefits we offer, please review the attached Job Description and Candidate Pack.
Application & Assessment Details
To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role on our application portal.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to deliver a presentation and attend a panel interview as part of the assessment process.
Please note that due to high levels of interest in our roles, early submissions are encouraged as we reserve the right to close vacancies before the stated deadlines.
For informal inquiries about this vacancy, contact Darrell Wilkinson at [email protected].
Join Us
If you’re ready to bring your expertise to Manchester Metropolitan University and contribute to our shared ambition, we’d love to hear from you!
Manchester Met is committed to fostering an inclusive culture of belonging, promoting equity, and celebrating diversity. We value the innovation and varied perspectives that come with a diverse workforce and welcome applications from individuals from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled individuals, and members of the LGBTQ community.
We support flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and bespoke schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, we encourage you to reach out for support.
Our dedication to inclusion includes mentoring, accessibility resources, and professional opportunities aimed at empowering underrepresented groups.
Manchester Met is a proud Disability Confident Leader committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities. Disabled candidates who meet the essential criteria outlined in the attached Job Description will be given priority consideration for interviews.
Recruitment Agencies
The University has a list of approved recruitment agencies for specific vacancies. Applications from other agencies will not be accepted