Deputy Chief Information Security Officer

Overview

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) in London is seeking a senior cyber security leader to serve as Deputy Chief Information Security Officer. This pivotal position is focused on embedding cyber security at the core of the UK's defence capabilities. The successful candidate will lead cyber risk strategy for critical digital systems, influence senior Defence decision-makers, and ensure secure-by-design principles are applied throughout. This role requires regular travel approximately 2–4 times per month to various MOD sites alongside attendance at the MOD Main Building in Whitehall.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement cyber risk strategies within a complex digital environment, promoting secure-by-design in all programmes and services.
• Establish governance, risk management, and compliance frameworks that align with Defence policies and respond to evolving cyber threats.
• Provide audit and compliance assurance with consistent application of core security standards.
• Utilize data analytics and tools to enhance cyber insight and risk assessment across digital capabilities, informing broader Defence cybersecurity operations.
• Serve as a primary cyber security leader within Defence, building partnerships and influencing stakeholders.
• Lead, inspire, and develop a high-performing cybersecurity team, fostering a robust security culture.
• Oversee cyber incident response and risk management, ensuring that robust incident plans are developed, tested, and maintained in collaboration with incident reporting teams.
• Hold delivery programmes accountable for cybersecurity resilience and continuous improvement measures.

Candidate Profile

Ideal candidates will be experienced cyber security leaders with a track record of enhancing security in complex and high-risk settings. You should have:

• Extensive experience managing cybersecurity governance, risk, and compliance frameworks.
• Proven ability in incident management, including leading responses and driving favorable outcomes.
• Strong leadership capabilities with experience managing and developing teams and coordinating with external resources.
• Exceptional communication skills, able to clearly translate technical risks to business leaders and influence strategic decisions.
• Sound analytical thinking and judgment to assess risk and provide direction for mitigation and improvement.
• A commitment to cultivating a positive cyber security culture within the organisation.

Additional Information

• Position requires UK nationals only and the ability to obtain Developed Vetting clearance.
• Typical working hours are 37 per week.
• Regular travel required to MOD sites approximately 2–4 times monthly.
• Participation in a digital skills allowance scheme, with levels ranging from £6,000 to £18,000 annually, and potential for a London location allowance of up to £3,300.
• Flexible working arrangements are offered, with a minimum of 60% office presence expected where business needs allow.
• This role includes pension contributions under the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.
• Generous annual leave starting at 25 days, increasing to 30 days after five years.
• Special leave provisions for volunteering, maternity, paternity, and adoption.
• No relocation expenses provided; probation period of six months applies for new external civil servants.
• The MOD is undergoing transformational changes which may affect roles over time.

Location

Primary work location is MOD Main Building, Whitehall, London, SW1A 2HB, United Kingdom.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: £72,840 per annum.
• Civil Service pension contribution of approximately 28.97%.
• Access to varied training and development opportunities, including industry qualifications.
• Facilities include sports and social clubs, gyms, and good travel links with free car parking at many sites.