At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Information Governance and Cyber Security, providing strategic direction and hands-on involvement.
- Company: Local authority in East London focused on information management and security.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, potential for contract extension or permanent role.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence organisational maturity and improve information risk management.
- Why this job: Shape the future of information governance and cyber security in a vital public sector role.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in Information Governance, data protection, and Cyber Security compliance.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
- Title: Head of Information Governance & Cyber Security
- IR35: Inside IR35
- Start: As soon as possible
The Opportunity
We are working with a London local authority that requires an experienced Head of Service to lead its Information Governance and Cyber Security functions.
This is a broad, hands‑on leadership role for someone who understands how an organisation should manage, protect and use its information.
You will provide senior direction while remaining actively involved in complex governance, assurance and compliance matters.
The position sits between traditional Information Governance and Cyber Security.
It would suit someone with strong IG, data protection or information assurance experience who also understands Cyber Security governance, risk and compliance.
The Role
You will lead a service covering Information Governance and Cyber Security, supported by existing specialists within both areas.
- Providing advice on complex Information Governance, data protection, FOI and SAR matters.
- Reviewing and advising on DPIAs, data‑sharing arrangements and information risks.
- Overseeing DSPT and wider public‑sector compliance and assurance activity.
- Developing policies, governance processes and clear organisational standards.
- Ensuring information‑related decisions are lawful, proportionate and properly evidenced.
- Providing senior advice on sensitive cases and, where required, supporting regulatory or legal proceedings.
- Overseeing Cyber Security governance, risk and compliance.
- Reviewing the findings from IT health checks, penetration tests and security assessments.
- Challenging technical teams on identified risks and ensuring remediation is properly managed.
- Working across a significant portfolio of organisational and technology projects.
- Improving maturity across information management, data protection and Cyber Security.
- Reporting clearly to senior stakeholders on priorities, risks and progress.
- Leading and developing the service while remaining personally involved in important areas of work.
The role is not just focused on processing routine FOI or SAR requests, and you will not be expected to perform technical Cyber Security activity yourself.
The emphasis is on handling complex matters, setting direction, providing assurance and making sure the right work is completed.
The Person
We are looking for someone who can demonstrate a credible balance across Information Governance and Cyber Security.
- Senior experience within Information Governance, data protection, Cyber Security GRC or information assurance.
- A good understanding of UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act, FOI and related information legislation.
- Experience advising on complex SARs, FOIs, DPIAs, breaches or data‑sharing questions.
- The confidence to explain and defend the reasoning behind sensitive information decisions.
- Experience of Cyber Security governance, risk, audit and compliance.
- The ability to interpret assurance findings and challenge technical teams on remediation.
- Experience developing policies, processes, controls and organisational governance.
- The ability to work independently, establish priorities and make progress quickly.
- A collaborative leadership style, with evidence of gaining cooperation and improving compliance.
- Strong communication skills and the credibility to advise senior managers and other stakeholders.
Local‑authority or wider public‑sector experience would be particularly useful, as would exposure to DSPT, Cabinet Office requirements, ICO engagement or formal legal proceedings.
You do not need to be an out‑and‑out technical Cyber Security specialist or to have formally managed every area of Information Governance.
However, you must be able to provide informed, practical advice across both disciplines rather than relying entirely on other specialists.
Why Consider It?
This is an opportunity to take ownership of a developing service at an important point in its evolution.
The successful person will have genuine scope to improve maturity, influence how the organisation manages information risk and shape the longer‑term structure of the function.
The initial appointment will be a contract, although the authority is considering how the role could develop into a longer‑term permanent or fixed‑term position for the right candidate
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Head of Information Governance & Cyber Security employer: JLA Resourcing Ltd
As a Service Desk Engineer at our Farnborough location, you will be part of a dynamic and supportive team that values innovation and collaboration. We offer competitive rates, a strong focus on employee development, and a work culture that encourages continuous learning and growth. With the opportunity to work on critical projects requiring DV Clearance, you will find meaningful and rewarding employment in a company that prioritises your professional journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Information Governance & Cyber Security
✨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 JLA Resourcing Ltd, 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 JLA Resourcing Ltd
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at JLA Resourcing Ltd. 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 Information Governance & Cyber Security
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 JLA Resourcing Ltd 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 JLA Resourcing Ltd that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at JLA Resourcing Ltd
✨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 JLA Resourcing Ltd 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 JLA Resourcing Ltd.
✨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.