At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the charge in defining and implementing cyber security strategies to protect vital public services.
- Company: Brighton & Hove City Council, a forward-thinking organisation at the forefront of tech innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, comprehensive wellbeing support, training, and development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse team and build a service that sets the standard for excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by safeguarding the city against cyber threats in a mission-critical role.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in cyber security leadership and strong knowledge of national security standards.
The predicted salary is between 70591 - 75505 £ per year.
Head of Cyber Security and Risk
Brighton & Hove City Council is breaking barriers and setting a new standard for what good looks like in tech: we move at breakneck speed, clear obstacles, deliver great technology, and have placed technology at the very heart of our strategy.
We are looking for an exceptional Head of Cyber Security & Risk to build a new service from the ground up and protect the council against one of its most significant risks.
You will define the council’s cyber security strategy, posture and risk approach, creating a robust modern cyber capability that meets national expectations and protects vital public services.
From compliance and audit through to incident response and threat intelligence, you will be the senior expert guiding the organisation through an increasingly complex security landscape.
In a world where cyber incidents can shut down councils for months, this is a mission‑critical role with real‑world consequences—and one where your expertise will directly safeguard services, residents and the city.
We want you to bring your experience and expertise to the table as one of six brand‑new heads of service: build the team your way, create a setup you believe in, set the standard for what you know good looks like.
Set direction instead of waiting for it; find ways to get things done, instead of reasons not to; and deliver outcomes people notice and care about.
Encouraging a diverse workforce.
Our city is known and loved for its diversity.
We are committed to developing and retaining a workforce that is representative of the diverse communities we serve so we welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds.
We particularly encourage applicants from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background, as well as those who identify as disabled, male or trans.
Responsibilities
- Define and implement the council’s cyber security strategy, posture and risk framework.
- Lead compliance, audit, incident response, threat intelligence and cyber governance.
- Build and lead a cyber security and risk management service from the ground up.
- Protect essential public services and safeguard residents and the city from cyber threats.
- Set direction for the service, build the team, and establish best‑practice standards.
- Act as a senior security advisor to the organisation, guiding through complex security landscape.
Qualifications
- Extensive experience leading cyber security and risk management functions.
- Strong knowledge of national security standards and expectations.
- Proven track record in building and leading technical teams.
- Strategic thinking and ability to drive outcomes in a fast‑paced environment.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Relevant professional qualifications or memberships in the cyber security field are desirable.
Benefits and package
Salary £70,591 - £75,505. Contractual hours 37. Package includes comprehensive wellbeing support, leave and pensions, training and development.
- Location
- Hove Town Hall, Norton Road, Hove, BN3 3BQ
- Equal Opportunities
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage candidates from under‑represented groups to apply.
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Contact Details:
Brighton & Hove City Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Cyber Security and Risk in Hove
✨Get Involved in the Cybersecurity Community
Diving into the cybersecurity community is key for landing that full-time gig. Join forums like Reddit's r/cybersecurity or attend local meetups to connect with industry veterans and other job seekers. Networking is everything in this field—don’t just be a passive lurker!
✨Show Off Your Skills with Capture the Flag Competitions
Participate in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions; these are not just a fun way to boost your skills but also a chance to showcase your talent to potential employers. Many companies, including Brighton & Hove City Council, love seeing candidates who actively engage in these challenges.
✨Tailor Your Online Presence
Make sure your LinkedIn and any professional profiles reflect your cybersecurity expertise. Share your projects, whether they’re personal or from a previous role, to catch the eye of hiring managers. This is how they’ll find your passion and commitment to the field!
✨Apply Directly Through Brighton & Hove City Council
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at Brighton & Hove City Council. Applying directly can sometimes give you an edge, especially if you can mention that you've been following our work or engaging in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Cyber Security and Risk in Hove
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your technical skills:In cybersecurity, it's crucial to highlight your technical prowess. Make sure your CV showcases specific skills like network security, penetration testing, or threat analysis. If you have relevant certifications (like CEH or CISSP), pop those on the front page to grab attention!
Tailor your portfolio for the role:Even for a full-time role, a portfolio can set you apart. If you've worked on any cybersecurity projects—be it CTF challenges, security assessments, or research papers—include these in your application. This demonstrates not just your skills, but also your hands-on experience!
Use real-world examples:When writing your cover letter, don’t just stick to your qualifications. Share real-world examples of how you’ve tackled security issues or vulnerabilities. This gives the hiring team at Brighton & Hove City Council insight into your practical problem-solving abilities and makes your application memorable.
Demonstrate your passion for cybersecurity:Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, so show us that you’re always learning! Mention any recent courses, webinars, or industry events you’ve attended. This not only exhibits your enthusiasm but also signals to Brighton & Hove City Council that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at Brighton & Hove City Council
✨Sharpen Your Technical Skills
For a role in cybersecurity, it’s essential to be up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you’ve applied these skills, as hands-on experience can really set us apart in interviews.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect the interviewers at Brighton & Hove City Council to throw in some hypothetical situations to see how you’d handle them. Think about common security breaches or incidents and be prepared to explain how you would respond. This not only shows your problem-solving skills but also your understanding of real-world cybersecurity challenges.
✨Highlight Your Certifications
Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH can give you a significant edge in a full-time role in cybersecurity. Make sure to mention these during your interview and be prepared to discuss what you learned through those certifications and how they relate to the position at Brighton & Hove City Council.
✨Show Your Passion for Cybersecurity
Since you’re going for a full-time gig, showing genuine enthusiasm for the field can make all the difference. Share any personal projects, blogs, or communities you’re part of that relate to cybersecurity. This not only showcases your passion but also your commitment to staying engaged in this ever-evolving field.
