OverviewWe are seeking a dynamic and experienced Security Consulting Leader, with deep expertise in Data Protection, to join our team. This role is pivotal in driving our security consulting practice, leading presales activities, generating a robust pipeline of opportunities, whilst engaging in some of the most exciting, complex, and leading-edge projects. You will play an active role in transforming our client’s Information Protection strategy, capabilities, and operations through the design and implementation of Microsoft security products. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills in security consulting, with a proven track record in growing pipeline, solutioning and delivering deals. This role includes partial delivery expectations for the year.Avanade is headquartered in Newcastle Upon Tyne, England, United Kingdom.Note: This description reflects the job posting contents as provided and includes only legally required information and role-related details.ResponsibilitiesLead and inspire a team of security consultants, providing strategic direction for data protection and fostering a culture of excellence.Drive presales activities, identify and generate new business opportunities, and build a strong pipeline to achieve growth targets.Develop innovative security solutions and architect deals that meet client needs and align with our business objectives, predominantly in the data protection space.A contribute to brand amplification by representing the company at key events and thought leadership opportunities.Own and nurture new and existing client relationships, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and long-term partnerships.Identify and capitalize on new opportunities across the sales team to expand our security consulting services.Develop and enhance the capabilities of the security consulting team through training, mentoring, and knowledge sharing.Drive the growth of the security business by achieving sales targets and expanding market presence.Key Technical ResponsibilitiesLead large projects and project teams; manage deliverables and critical milestones.Engage in solution architecture and pre-sales deal shaping; develop and maintain long-term strategic client relationships.Lead the implementation and management of Microsoft Purview for data discovery, classification, sensitivity labeling, and retention policies.Drive DSPM (Data Security Posture Management) strategy to ensure AI models, pipelines, and infrastructure meet enterprise data protection and compliance requirements.Design and enforce DSPM frameworks tailored for AI-driven data infrastructure; define and monitor KPIs for data discovery, classification, and protection coverage.Implement DSPM solutions to discover, classify, and secure data across AI pipelines; integrate data classification and retention policies within AI lifecycle.Provide forensic tracing of AI usage and auditability of input data; integrate Purview alerts and telemetry with Microsoft Defender and Sentinel for real-time threat detection and incident correlation.Oversee configuration of E5 security tools, including Microsoft Information Protection, Data Loss Prevention, and Insider Risk Management.Stay current with evolving data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, CCPA, NIST AI RMF) and recommend policy updates accordingly.Develop high-level documentation and executive reports on data security posture, risk exposures, and improvement roadmaps.Additional experience with Entra suite, M365, and Defender is valuable but not mandatory.QualificationsExtensive experience in security consulting with a focus on leadership.Proven track record in presales, pipeline generation, and solutioning/architecting deals.Strong understanding of the security landscape and industry trends.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to build and maintain strong client relationships.Demonstrated ability to drive business growth and achieve sales targets.Advanced Microsoft Security Certifications such as: SC-100, SC-200, SC-401, AI-900.Industry-recognised certifications such as: CISSP, CCSP, CISM, GIAC.In-depth knowledge of Azure Security Tools with experience implementing Purview and DSPM strategies for AI models or hybrid data platforms.Strong background in Security Architecture Design for cloud-based applications and services.Continuous learning mindset and ability to improve security processes and tools.Familiarity with compliance frameworks (e.g., GDPR, NIST AI RMF, ISO 27001, SOC 2).Familiarity with cloud security best practices and industry standards.Beneficial KnowledgeUnderstanding of how AI/ML models handle training data, inference data, and derived data.Experience with case management workflows and insider threat response protocols.Data lineage tracking for model input/output; familiarity with Responsible AI practices including bias, fairness, and explainability.Knowledge of the Microsoft Defender suite, including Defender for Endpoint, Defender for Identity, Defender for Office 365, and Microsoft Cloud App Security.What You’ll DoLead and manage security leadership activities; oversee delivery and client engagement for data protection initiatives.Ensure alignment of security solutions with client goals and Avanade’s business objectives.Develop and maintain long-term strategic client relationships; manage communications with stakeholders.Drive and participate in proposal development, solution presentations, and deal closure discussions.EEO and BenefitsAvanade is an inclusive employer. We work to provide a diverse culture with a deep sense of belonging for all employees and applicants. Avanade is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status as defined by law.BenefitsWork for Microsoft’s Global Alliance Partner of the Year with extensive development and training opportunities.Comprehensive benefits including pension, health coverage, 25 days holiday, bonuses, life and income protection, and more.Access to Avanade University and dedicated career advisory services.Seniority levelMid-Senior levelEmployment typePart-timeJob functionInformation TechnologyIndustries: IT Services and IT ConsultingNote: This refined description preserves the core responsibilities and requirements while removing extraneous boilerplate and preserving the required EEO statement. #J-18808-Ljbffr