At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development and testing of business continuity plans to ensure readiness for disruptions.
- Company: Join the Disclosure and Barring Service, dedicated to safeguarding services and public safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, generous leave, and a supportive culture with professional growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by ensuring vital services continue during crises in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in BCDR, strong communication skills, and relevant qualifications like BCI accreditation are essential.
- Other info: Remote and hybrid work arrangements available after probation; inclusive employer committed to diversity.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 48000 £ per year.
Salary: Grade SEO £42,075 band minimum – £44,599 band maximum
Location: Liverpool/Darlington
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time, Part Time, Flexible Working
Help keep vital safeguarding services running when it matters most. We’re looking for someone who understands what it means to plan for the unexpected and respond with confidence when the pressure is on. If you’ve worked in environments where resilience, risk and recovery are critical, this role could be the ideal next step.
About the role
As our Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) Manager, you’ll be at the heart of how DBS prepares for and responds to disruption. Working across the organisation, you’ll lead the development, testing and improvement of our business continuity plans, making sure they’re aligned, practical and ready for action. You’ll advise senior leaders, guide our response during real incidents, and ensure we learn from experience to build an even stronger organisation. This is a strategic, hands-on role with real influence. You’ll work closely with colleagues across DBS, as well as suppliers and government partners, to make sure we’re always prepared and able to deliver our safeguarding services to the public, even in challenging circumstances.
About you
You will have a background in Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR), perhaps from an operational leadership background, a public sector environment, the military or emergency services. You’re comfortable with working at pace, holding high levels of responsibility and are able to advise and challenge senior stakeholders. You will have experience of drafting and implementing BCDR documentation such as Business Impact Analysis and policies, designing and rolling out training, debriefing BCDR events, designing and delivering testing schedules and of coordination of live BCDR events. You’ll understand the importance of preparation and coordinating a calm and considered response to BCDR events as they occur; excellent communication skills are a must. You will hold a relevant qualification in business continuity such as BCI accreditation or have significant work experience in a BCDR related field.
Why choose a career at the Disclosure and Barring Service:
At DBS, we are proud of the work we do and the people we work with. Our culture values collaboration, inclusion, and professionalism. We offer flexibility, trust and room to grow, recognising our people require support, not just responsibility.
Benefits include:
- Civil Service pension with generous employer contributions
- 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 days with service, plus public holidays
- Flexible and hybrid working options, including remote working
- A supportive and inclusive organisational culture
- Ongoing learning and professional development opportunities
All DBS employees contracts are office-based by default at one of our two sites. However, as per the Right to Request Flexible Working legislation, employees are eligible to apply for a remote or hybrid work arrangement which (if approved) take effect after six months if transferring from another government department, or after successfully completing probation as a new joiner. Requests will be considered in line with business need and the requirements of the role. Informal hybrid working arrangements are also available from day one.
How to apply
To find out more about this opportunity and about working for the Disclosure and Barring Service, please click on the APPLY button. Closing date for applications: 10:00am, 28 July 2025.
The DBS is an accredited Disability Confident Employer, and we are an equal opportunities employer, welcoming suitably qualified applicants from all backgrounds. We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission’s recruitment principles. Applicants who have applied for this post in the last six months need not reapply.
Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) Manager Disclosure and Barring Service employer: Civvy Street Magazine
Contact Detail:
Civvy Street Magazine Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) Manager Disclosure and Barring Service
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific BCDR frameworks and methodologies used in the public sector. Understanding these will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with the role's requirements.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the BCDR field, especially those who have experience in public sector roles. Engaging with them can provide insights into the challenges faced and how to effectively address them in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios where you've successfully managed BCDR events. Highlighting your hands-on experience will demonstrate your capability to handle pressure and lead during critical situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Disclosure and Barring Service's current BCDR strategies and any recent incidents they’ve faced. This knowledge will allow you to tailor your discussions and show that you're proactive and genuinely interested in their operations.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) Manager Disclosure and Barring Service
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) Manager. Familiarise yourself with the key skills and experiences required, such as drafting BCDR documentation and advising senior stakeholders.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in BCDR, operational leadership, or public sector roles. Emphasise your achievements in developing and implementing business continuity plans and any qualifications like BCI accreditation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the importance of resilience and recovery in safeguarding services. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you can contribute to the DBS's mission.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a role that involves advising senior leaders.
How to prepare for a job interview at Civvy Street Magazine
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the responsibilities of a BCDR Manager. Familiarise yourself with business continuity plans, risk management, and disaster recovery processes. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with the role during the interview.
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Be ready to discuss specific instances where you've successfully managed BCDR situations. Highlight your problem-solving skills and how you’ve advised senior stakeholders in high-pressure scenarios. Concrete examples will demonstrate your capability and confidence.
✨Showcase Communication Skills
Excellent communication is crucial for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be prepared to explain complex BCDR concepts in simple terms, as you may need to communicate with various stakeholders who might not have a technical background.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the organisation's current BCDR strategies and challenges. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company culture aligns with your values, especially regarding collaboration and support.