At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cyber security strategies and protect vital digital services at NICE.
- Company: Join the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, making a real difference in health.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous NHS pension, and 27 days annual leave.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive, inclusive team dedicated to improving health and wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make an impact on national health by safeguarding critical digital infrastructure.
- Qualifications: Expertise in cyber security with relevant certifications and leadership experience.
Location: Manchester
Salary: £66,582 to £77,368 per annum
Vacancy Type: Permanent, Full Time
The closing date is 14 June 2026
Do you want to do meaningful work that makes a genuine difference to society? Our main purpose here at The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) is to improve health and wellbeing by putting science and evidence at the heart of health and care decision-making. As an organisation we all collaborate to achieve this goal by empowering our workforce to do great things!
Please note that this role may not be eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route. We reserve the right to close adverts early should we receive sufficient applications, so please don't delay your submission.
Main duties of the job:
- Lead the development, implementation and enforcement of cyber security strategies, policies and standards across the organisation.
- Act as NICE's cyber security subject matter expert, advising senior leaders and technical teams on complex risks, threats and mitigations.
- Oversee security operations, incident response and threat intelligence, ensuring strong protection and rapid response to cyber incidents.
- Manage organisational risk and vulnerability management, including compliance with Cyber Essentials Plus and the Data Security and Protection Toolkit.
- Embed secure-by-design principles into digital services, systems and technology programmes from early design through delivery.
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders, NHS partners and suppliers to align security approaches and share intelligence.
About us:
The Infrastructure, Cyber & IT Operations team plays a critical role in ensuring NICE's digital services are secure, resilient, and reliable. The team is responsible for safeguarding systems and information, supporting users across the organisation, and maintaining operational stability with minimal risk or disruption. As part of this team, you will help protect nationally important digital services while enabling NICE to deliver trusted guidance and information to health and care users across England.
NICE offer:
- Generous NHS Pension - Secure your future with one of the most rewarding pension schemes in the UK
- Flexible working - Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with options like remote working, compressed hours and flexible start/finish times
- Exclusive discounts - Save on shopping, dining and more with a Blue Light Card
- Time to recharge - Start with 27 days' annual leave plus bank holidays
- Inclusive staff networks - Join supportive communities like Women in NICE, Race Equality Network, Disability Advocacy and NICE and Proud - we celebrate diversity
- Tailored development - Grow your career with personalised learning and development opportunities
Person Specification:
Essential:
- Holds highly developed specialist knowledge and expertise acquired through master's degree level or equivalent qualification/experience.
- Additionally holds specialist knowledge of the relevant area(s) of expertise as outlined in the person specification, acquired through relevant practical experience and training/development.
- Hold either Certified Information Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) or Certified Cyber Professional (CCP) qualification.
- Proven experience in a senior cyber security role with direct line management, performance management, and coaching responsibilities.
- Significant practical experience in security operations, vulnerability assessment and threat intelligence.
- Expert-level understanding of core cyber security concepts, infrastructure security, and the modern threat landscape.
- Proficiency in developing and implementing security policies and risk management frameworks based on standards like CAF, Cyber Essentials, ISO27001 etc.
Desirable:
- Experience working in the Health Sector/NHS
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
To Apply:
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for NICE (The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence), please click apply to be redirected to their website to complete your application.
Head of Cyber Security in Manchester employer: NICE
At the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to improving health and wellbeing across society. Our Manchester location offers a supportive and inclusive work culture, with flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, and tailored development opportunities that empower our employees to thrive. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying the benefits of a rewarding career in cyber security within a passionate team committed to safeguarding vital digital services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Cyber Security in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the cyber security field, especially those connected to NICE. Attend industry events or webinars and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare to discuss your experience with security operations and risk management in detail. Think of specific examples where you’ve made a difference in previous roles. This will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest trends in cyber security. Follow relevant blogs, podcasts, or news outlets. Being knowledgeable about current threats and solutions will not only impress interviewers but also show your passion for the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in working with NICE. Don’t forget to tailor your application to highlight how your skills align with their mission!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Cyber Security in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in cyber security. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what NICE is looking for.
Showcase Your Expertise:Don’t hold back on showcasing your qualifications and certifications like CISSP or CISM. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Head of Cyber Security, so be specific about your achievements.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read through your experience and skills quickly.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at NICE.
How to prepare for a job interview at NICE
✨Know Your Cyber Security Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and threats in cyber security. Be ready to discuss your experience with security operations, risk management, and compliance frameworks like Cyber Essentials and ISO27001. This will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also passionate about the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Cyber Security, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead teams and manage performance. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led projects or initiatives in the past, especially those that involved collaboration with senior leaders and technical teams.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific cyber security incidents or challenges. Think through potential scenarios and how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
✨Build Relationships Before You Even Start
Since this role involves working closely with various stakeholders, think about how you can demonstrate your relationship-building skills. Share examples of how you've collaborated with internal teams or external partners to enhance security measures in previous roles.
