At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and evolve security strategy across 40+ software and payments businesses.
- Company: Fast-growing international software and payments group with a dynamic culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private medical insurance, generous holiday, and hybrid working model.
- Other info: Opportunity to safeguard future growth in a complex, evolving environment.
- Why this job: Shape security strategy and influence critical business decisions at an executive level.
- Qualifications: CISO experience in multi-product organisations and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 61408 - 70089 £ per year.
ClearCourse is seeking an experienced Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead and evolve our group‑wide security strategy across a diverse portfolio of 40+ software and payments businesses. Reporting to the Chief Technology & Transformation Officer, with a dotted line to the Board and Audit Committee, this is a pivotal executive leadership role responsible for security governance, operations, compliance, and risk management across a complex technology estate spanning payments, healthcare, and B2B SaaS. With ongoing M&A activity, active PCI-DSS obligations, and a rapidly evolving platform landscape, you’ll play a critical role in protecting our customers, supporting business growth, and embedding security across the organisation.
What you’ll do:
- Define and lead the Group’s security strategy, policies, and governance framework
- Provide Board-level reporting on security posture, risks, and compliance activities
- Oversee security operations, including threat detection, incident response, and remediation
- Act as the executive lead during security incidents and manage external stakeholder communications
- Own PCI-DSS compliance across ClearAccept and ClearDebit payment platforms
- Lead the Group’s Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) function, including ISO 27001, Cyber Essentials, PCI-DSS, and data protection obligations
- Manage relationships with auditors, regulators, cyber insurers, and certification bodies
- Lead security assessments and integration activities for acquisitions, driving alignment to Group standards
- Partner with Platform Engineering teams to embed security practices into development lifecycles without impacting delivery velocity
- Lead and develop the GRC function to support a proactive and risk‑aware security culture
Requirements:
- Previous experience operating at CISO level within a multi-product or multi-entity organisation
- Hands‑on experience leading PCI‑DSS compliance programmes and QSA assessments
- Proven expertise building and managing enterprise‑wide GRC frameworks and risk registers
- Experience assessing and integrating security functions following M&A activity
- Strong understanding of DevSecOps principles and embedding security into engineering practices
- Experience leading major security incidents, including external communications and stakeholder management
- Ability to influence at Board and executive leadership level
- Strong leadership skills with experience building and developing high‑performing security teams
Benefits:
- Competitive salary + benefits
- 25 days holiday + your birthday off
- Private medical insurance (Bupa) & health cash plan
- Life assurance & income protection
- Enhanced parental leave & family wellbeing support
- Perkbox discounts & perks
- Generous pension contributions
- Hybrid working model
This is a rare opportunity to shape and lead the security strategy of a fast‑growing international software and payments group. You’ll work at executive level, influence critical business decisions, and play a key role in safeguarding the future growth of the organisation. If you’re passionate about security leadership and thrive in complex, evolving environments, we’d love to hear from you.
Head of Security in London employer: ClearCourse
ClearCourse is an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic and supportive work environment, particularly for those in leadership roles like the Chief Information Security Officer. With a strong focus on employee growth, competitive benefits including private medical insurance and generous pension contributions, and a hybrid working model, ClearCourse fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, making it an ideal place for professionals looking to make a significant impact in the security landscape of a diverse portfolio of businesses.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Security in London
✨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 ClearCourse, 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 ClearCourse
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at ClearCourse. 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 Security in London
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 ClearCourse 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 ClearCourse that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at ClearCourse
✨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 ClearCourse 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 ClearCourse.
✨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.
