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- Tasks: Lead network security for a high-stakes UK Defence project, ensuring robust protection of sensitive assets.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on classified network security initiatives.
- Benefits: Competitive contract terms with potential for extension and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in national security while advancing your career in a critical field.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in senior information security roles with expertise in network security technologies.
- Other info: Active DV clearance required; ideal for those passionate about cybersecurity in defence.
Interim Chief Information Security Officer required for a high-stakes classified UK Defence project. This role leads the Network Security initiative, ensuring robust protection of sensitive assets in a secure environment. Reporting directly to the Chief Information Officer (CIO), you will drive security strategy, compliance, and risk mitigation to safeguard mission-critical operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design, implementation, and oversight of Network Security architecture for classified systems, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention, encryption protocols, and secure access controls.
- Conduct risk assessments, vulnerability management, and incident response planning tailored to defence-grade threats, ensuring alignment with NCSC and CPNI standards.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, ops, intel) to integrate security-by-design into project deliverables, focusing on zero-trust models and SASE frameworks.
- Advise the CIO on emerging cyber threats, regulatory changes and strategic security enhancements to maintain project integrity.
- Oversee compliance audits, security clearances for team members, and reporting on security metrics to senior stakeholders.
- Manage third-party vendor security risks and ensure all protocols meet classified information handling requirements.
- Drive rapid incident resolution and post-event analysis to minimise downtime in high-sensitivity operations.
Requirements / Qualifications
- Active Enhanced Developed Vetting (eDV) or Developed Vetting (DV) clearance.
- 10+ years in Senior Information Security Roles, with proven leadership in UK Defence or Intelligence Community projects.
- Expertise in Network Security technologies (e.g., PKI, cryptography, secure cloud architectures on AWS/Azure/GCP with defence integrations).
- Strong background in classified environments.
- Demonstrable experience leading security teams on time-bound projects, with a track record of delivering under pressure.
- Professional certifications: CISSP, CISM, or equivalent; NCSC/CLAS consultancy experience highly desirable.
- Offensive cyber/red teaming knowledge (CHECK/CREST/Tiger Scheme).
- Experience with SOC operations, threat intelligence, or DevSecOps in secure-by-design pipelines.
- Familiarity with defence primes (e.g., BAE, QinetiQ) and framework agreements.
Contract Type: Interim/Contract (12-18 months initial, high likelihood of extension) - Outside IR35
Location: UK Hybrid
If interested, please send your most recent CV to the recruiter to discuss the role in more detail.
Interim Chief Information Security Officer in London employer: iO Associates
Contact Detail:
iO Associates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Chief Information Security Officer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network, network, network! Reach out to your connections in the defence and cybersecurity sectors. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know. Don’t hesitate to slide into DMs or connect on LinkedIn!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews like a pro! Research the company and its projects, especially their approach to security. We want you to showcase your expertise in Network Security and how you can lead their initiatives effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! In your conversations, highlight your experience leading teams in high-pressure environments. We need to see that you can drive security strategy and compliance while keeping everyone motivated.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for top talent like you to join our mission in securing sensitive assets.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Chief Information Security Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Interim Chief Information Security Officer. Highlight your experience in network security, compliance, and risk management, especially in classified environments. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!
Showcase Relevant Experience: When writing your application, focus on your 10+ years in senior information security roles. Share specific examples of projects you've led, particularly those related to UK Defence or Intelligence Community. This will help us understand your leadership capabilities.
Highlight Certifications: Don’t forget to mention your professional certifications like CISSP or CISM. If you have NCSC/CLAS consultancy experience, make it stand out! These credentials are crucial for us to gauge your expertise in the field.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at iO Associates
✨Know Your Cybersecurity Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in network security, especially those relevant to classified environments. Be ready to discuss specific technologies like firewalls, encryption protocols, and zero-trust models, as these will likely come up during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Since this role requires strong leadership skills, prepare examples of how you've successfully led security teams in high-pressure situations. Highlight any experience with time-bound projects, especially within the UK Defence or Intelligence Community.
✨Understand the Compliance Landscape
Familiarise yourself with NCSC and CPNI standards, as well as any relevant compliance audits you've conducted. Be prepared to discuss how you've ensured adherence to these standards in past roles, particularly in relation to classified information handling.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your incident response planning and risk assessment skills. Think through potential cyber threats and how you would mitigate them, as well as how you would advise the CIO on emerging threats and strategic enhancements.