At a Glance
- Tasks: Protect our digital environment and enhance cyber security across the organisation.
- Company: Rethink Mental Illness, a purpose-led organisation making a real difference.
- Benefits: Remote work, supportive culture, and the chance to impact lives positively.
- Other info: Be part of a transformative journey in a values-driven environment.
- Why this job: Join a forward-thinking team and shape the future of cyber security.
- Qualifications: Strong technical skills in Azure, Microsoft 365, and cyber security frameworks.
Make a difference with every line of defence you build. At Rethink Mental Illness, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live a better quality of life. Technology plays a vital role in making that happen — and that’s where you come in. The Business Improvement & Technology directorate was formed in January 2026, bringing together Technology & Business Systems with Compliance, Quality, Audit and PMO. This new directorate has an exciting purpose to drive real, meaningful change across the organisation.
It will play a key role in improving how we work, maintaining compliance, shaping and strengthening our technology, systems, and data to deliver quality services, demonstrate our impact and enable strategic planning & delivery. We’ve already transformed our technology services, earning recognition through Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus. Now we’re looking for a Cyber Specialist to take us further — strengthening our cyber resilience, protecting vital services, and enabling our colleagues to deliver life-changing support safely and securely.
What you’ll be doing
- You’ll be at the heart of protecting our digital environment — shaping how we manage risk, respond to threats and embed security across everything we do.
- Lead and continuously improve our cyber security posture.
- Design and implement robust security controls, policies and frameworks.
- Protect key platforms including Microsoft 365, Azure, SharePoint, and Intune.
- Drive threat detection and response using tools such as Microsoft Sentinel, EDR/XDR.
- Ensure compliance with standards like Cyber Essentials, NIST and regulatory requirements.
- Oversee patch management, endpoint protection and identity/access controls (incl. MFA).
- Provide expert advice on cyber risk, infrastructure changes and new technology.
- Use automation and innovation (PowerShell, Power Apps, AI/ML where appropriate).
- Monitor, report on and proactively mitigate risk across systems and data.
- Collaborate with teams across Technology, Compliance and wider business areas.
- Support projects and organisational change with a strong security-first mindset.
What you’ll bring
You’re someone who combines strong technical expertise with a passion for making a real-world difference.
Essential experience & skills
- Expertise in Azure, Microsoft 365, SharePoint and Intune.
- Strong knowledge of cyber tools and frameworks (SIEM, EDR, XDR, NIST, Cyber Essentials).
- Hands-on experience with PowerShell, Active Directory, networking and server management.
- Ability to design and implement security controls and policies.
- Experience managing incidents across the full lifecycle: identify, detect, protect, respond, recover.
- Clear communication skills — able to translate complex technical risks for non-technical audiences.
- A proactive, solution-focused mindset with the drive to improve and innovate.
Nice to have
- Certifications in Azure or Cyber Security.
- Experience in the charity or not-for-profit sector.
- Knowledge of project delivery methodologies.
Why join us?
- Work remotely with a supportive, purpose-led organisation.
- Help protect services that make a real difference to people’s lives.
- Be part of a forward-thinking technology transformation journey.
- Use your expertise to shape the future of cyber security in a values-driven organisation.
Ready to rethink your next move? If you’re looking for a role where your cyber expertise directly supports meaningful change, we’d love to hear from you.
Cyber Specialist employer: Rethink Mental Illness
At Rethink Mental Illness, we pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment where every employee can thrive. Our commitment to employee wellbeing is reflected in our comprehensive benefits package, including access to a Wellbeing Hub, flexible working arrangements, and generous leave policies. With a strong focus on professional development and a culture that values diversity, we empower our team members to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those they serve within the North East Prisons.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cyber Specialist
✨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 Rethink Mental Illness, 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 Rethink Mental Illness
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at Rethink Mental Illness. 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 Cyber Specialist
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 Rethink Mental Illness 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 Rethink Mental Illness that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at Rethink Mental Illness
✨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 Rethink Mental Illness 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 Rethink Mental Illness.
✨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.
