Location: Reading (hybrid working / onsite when required)Duration: 2-month initial contractRate: 107ph UMB (Inside IR35) Role details: Our client, a leader in the Defence and Security sector, is currently seeking a dynamic Product Assurance Functional Lead to join their team on a contract basis in Reading, with hybrid working options available.Key Responsibilities:Safeguarding applications, infrastructure, and cloud environments throughout their lifecycle according to the Security by Design framework and principles. Ensure knowledge and application of relevant standards, including but not limited to (ISO 44001, NIST 800-53, (Apply online only), (Apply online only), NIS2, DEFSTAN, JSP''s).Define and follow secure development guidelines. Collaborate with development teams to embed requirements and guarantee controls to protect critical data. Cohere technical solutions to mitigate vulnerabilities during development and in production.Assure infrastructure and cloud through continuous compliance with established standards and procedures.Oversee risk management and recommend tactical and strategic improvements to systems and processes, aligned to best practice.Work cross functionally and use collaborative leadership skills to assure secure solutions aligned with programme objectives.Lead security enhancements and initiatives that strengthen assurance and advance compliance across the programme.Job Requirements:Comprehensive engagement management skills to enhance collaboration acro