At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cyber security strategy and protect vital information for the UK government.
- Company: Join FCDO Services, a key player in safeguarding national interests.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and a Civil Service pension.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a supportive, inclusive culture await you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global security while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Expertise in cyber security and relevant professional qualifications required.
The predicted salary is between 75055 - 82400 £ per year.
Location: Milton Keynes
Salary: 75,055 - 82,400 per year plus a location allowance of 1,750 and excellent benefits
Employment: Full time
Job summary
At FCDO Services we protect the UK’s interests at home and overseas. We design and construct secure government buildings and courier diplomatic packages worldwide, safeguard government tech and a whole lot more. Our work is as varied and vital as it gets, but we never lose sight of our people. Their skills, aspirations and growth mean as much as the global mission we’re on.
Job description
Our Digital, Data and Technology team are at the forefront of digital innovation. They provide best-in-class solutions for our clients, helping to shape and support a data driven future for UK government. Whether it’s creating bespoke, secure software, offering programme and application support or moving an entire embassy’s servers to a Cloud platform. No matter the task, they are on hand to support.
Drive operational security and digital transformation. As Chief Information Security Officer, you’ll provide strategic leadership for information and cyber security across FCDO Services. You’ll ensure that security objectives support organisational priorities, enable digital transformation and strengthen operational resilience.
Playing a key role in developing and communicating FCDO Services’ Information Security and Cyber Assurance Vision and Strategy, you’ll bring different teams together to establish shared direction for delivering this new strategy. Leading our Information and Cyber Security functions, you’ll ensure we develop, maintain and continually improve a comprehensive, risk-based security capability that protects the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information, systems and services.
To succeed in this role, you should be able to drive cyber and information security and assurance across a variety of business areas, projects and programmes. You’ll bring a broad range of experience gained in a Deputy CISO, Head of Cyber Security or equivalent role. This could include working in incident response, SOC, security architecture, vulnerability and compliance, governance or risk. Preferably, you’ll have experience of working in both the public and private sectors, but this isn’t essential.
You’ll also bring significant technical experience in cloud and mobile technologies and enterprise level architectures, along with knowledge of how different products and services may impact business security risks. As well as working with different technical teams to deliver complex solutions, you should be able to translate cyber and information security issues into meaningful language for non-specialist audiences across the business.
Essential:
- Expert level of competency in Applied Security Capability, Cyber Security Operations, Incident Management, Incident Investigation and Response, Information Risk Assessment and Risk Management, Risk Understanding and Mitigation, Security Architecture, Threat Intelligence and Threat Assessment, Threat Understanding.
- Able to directly brief the Board and Executive team on all matters pertaining to information security and cyber operations.
- Track record of driving information security, information assurance and cyber security at the strategic level across a broad range of business areas, projects and programmes delivering complex solutions.
- Significant technical experience in enterprise level architectures, cloud and mobile technologies.
- Demonstrable substantial combined experience in information security and information risk management frameworks.
- Appropriate professional qualification in relevant discipline, e.g. CISSP, NCSC Certified Professional or level 6 equivalent qualification, Certified CISO qualification, e.g. CISA, CISM, CRISC.
Benefits
Alongside your salary of 75,055, FCDO Services contributes 21,743 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Learning and development tailored to your role, an environment with flexible working options, a culture encouraging inclusion and diversity, a Civil Service pension, a leave allowance of 25 days per annum, 9 days per annum public and privilege days.
Every single colleague must be security cleared before joining us. If you’re successful in your application, we’ll ask you to undergo our vetting process to achieve Developed Vetting (DV) clearance.
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. We run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
Chief Information Security Officer employer: FCDO Services
As a Services Officer at Hanslope Park, Milton Keynes, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to supporting the UK's diplomatic efforts. The company offers a competitive salary package, generous pension contributions, and a strong commitment to employee development within a collaborative work culture that values public service. With opportunities for growth and a focus on meaningful work, this role is ideal for those seeking a rewarding career in the public sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Information Security Officer
✨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 FCDO Services, 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 FCDO Services
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at FCDO Services. 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 Chief Information Security Officer
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 FCDO Services 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 FCDO Services that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at FCDO Services
✨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 FCDO Services 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 FCDO Services.
✨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.
