Head of Information Security in Southampton

We are Ordnance Survey, Great Britain’s national mapping service and a pioneer in geospatial technology. With over 230 years of trusted data, we empower better decisions, deeper understanding, and meaningful connections to the places we live, move through, and care for.

At Ordnance Survey, information security is about more than protecting systems and managing cyber threats. It's about creating the trust and confidence that allows our organisation to innovate, grow and deliver nationally important services every day. As technology continues to evolve, security plays a vital role in helping us make informed decisions, manage risk effectively and deliver trusted digital services.

We're looking for an experienced and collaborative Head of Information Security to lead the delivery and continual improvement of our Information Security capability. Reporting to the Chief Information Security Officer, you will help shape the direction of Information Security at OS while leading the services, controls and operational activities that keep our organisation secure.

As a member of the Security & Resilience Leadership Team, you'll contribute to the development of security strategy and be accountable for translating that strategy into effective capabilities, services and outcomes. Working closely with colleagues across technology, product, operations and corporate functions, you will ensure security is practical, proportionate and embedded in the way we deliver services and manage risk.

What you'll be doing

• Leading the day-to-day operation, delivery and continual improvement of OS's Information Security capability.
• Contributing to the development and delivery of the Security Strategy and roadmap.
• Providing expert Information Security advice, guidance and assurance.
• Leading the response to cyber and information security incidents.
• Leading cyber and information security risk management activities.
• Developing security reporting, metrics and insights.
• Building strong partnerships across OS and with external stakeholders.

As an OS Leader

• Engage – Build trust, alignment and shared purpose across teams, functions and stakeholders.
• Grow – Develop leaders, strengthen capability and prepare the organisation for future challenges and opportunities.
• Deliver – Drive joined-up outcomes through effective decision-making, collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement.

What we're looking for

• Significant experience leading information security, cyber security or security operations functions.
• Strong understanding of information security risk management, security assurance, threat management and vulnerability management.
• Knowledge of recognised security frameworks, standards, maturity models and related industry good practice.
• Experience developing capabilities, services or operating models through structured maturity approaches and continuous improvement.
• The ability to influence senior leaders and translate complex security challenges into practical organisational outcomes.
• Experience using data, reporting and insights to support decision-making and drive performance improvement.
• A collaborative leadership style that develops capability, builds trust and enables others to succeed.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to lead the continued development of Information Security at Ordnance Survey, helping ensure security remains effective, practical and aligned to organisational priorities. You'll play a key role in helping protect the information, systems and services that support customers, partners and the wider public.

We know that great candidates don't always meet every requirement listed. If this opportunity excites you and you believe you can make a positive contribution, we'd love to hear from you. We value different experiences, perspectives and backgrounds, and we know that diverse teams help us make better decisions, solve problems more effectively and achieve stronger outcomes for our customers and communities.

The Rewards

• Competitive salary and pension (OS contribute up to 12.07%)
• Performance‑related bonus (where applicable)
• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (increasing with service)
• Enhanced family leave, including paid partner leave
• Hybrid and flexible working options
• Learning and development support, coaching and mentoring
• Free subscription to OS Maps and access to wellbeing support
• Volunteering leave and matched fundraising

Location & working pattern

You’ll be based at our fantastic HQ in Southampton, where you'll be expected to spend a minimum of 4 days per week leading and collaborating face-to-face with colleagues.

Security

A key requirement of this role is the ability to obtain and maintain Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance. OS conducts pre-employment checks for anyone made an offer of employment.

Closing Date - Sunday 4th October 2026 at 23:59pm.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and Covering letter to support the above criteria.

Inclusion

We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that people may need during the recruitment process. At Ordnance Survey, we are dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive and genuine workplace where everyone can thrive.

Skills required for this role:

• Government Security
• Information Technology Security
• Information Technology Strategies
• Line Management Experience
• National Security Law
• Security Management
• Security Programming
• Security Standards
• Security Tools
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Strategy Development

Summary

Location: Southampton, United Kingdom

Type: Full time