At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic security initiatives and provide expert advice to financial services clients.
- Company: Join a top MSP known for delivering exceptional security solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, remote work flexibility, and potential for increased hours.
- Other info: This is a contract role with a commitment of 2-3 days per week, increasing as needed.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cyber resilience while working with high-profile clients.
- Qualifications: Must have experience with FCA regulations and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
One of Reed Technology’s best MSPs clients has a requirement for a CISO to come on board and deliver strategic security leadership, regulatory guidance, and cyber risk oversight to financial services clients.
Role: Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
Day rate: Competitive OUTSIDE IR35
Time commitment: Expected time commitment – 2-3 days per week, although this could rise to 4-5 days depending on client engagement
Start date: ASAP (Targeting mid-June)
Location: Remote – with occasional client visits in person in London
About the Role
We are seeking a highly experienced and strategic Contract vCISO to provide expert security leadership to our financial services clients. This role is ideal for a senior security professional who thrives in a client-facing, advisory capacity and is passionate about helping organisations meet regulatory expectations and strengthen their cyber resilience.
As a vCISO, you will act as an outsourced Chief Information Security Officer, delivering tailored security advice, overseeing cyber risk management, and supporting clients through regulatory and audit readiness processes (e.g., ISO 27001, SOC 2). You will also play a key role in shaping and expanding our security advisory services.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as a trusted security advisor to FCA-regulated financial services clients.
- Provide strategic guidance aligned with FCA, PRA, SYSC, and GDPR requirements.
- Lead and support risk assessments, security posture reviews, and audit preparations (ISO 27001, SOC 2).
- Communicate effectively with board-level stakeholders and senior leadership.
- Collaborate with the sales team to evolve existing services and design new offerings.
- Support the transition to a long-term fractional retainer model for vCISO services.
Required Experience & Skills
- Proven experience advising FCA-regulated firms.
- Deep knowledge of SYSC, GDPR, and at least one audit framework (ISO 27001 or SOC 2).
- Strong client-facing and communication skills, with the ability to engage C-level and board stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to deliver pragmatic, business-aligned security strategies.
- UK-based, with availability for occasional in-person meetings in London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Information Security Officer CISO - CONTRACT - REMOTE in Leeds
✨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 Reed, 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 Reed
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at Reed. 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 CISO - CONTRACT - REMOTE in Leeds
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 Reed 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 Reed that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at Reed
✨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 Reed 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 Reed.
✨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.
