Information Security and Compliance Lead
Information Security and Compliance Lead

Information Security and Compliance Lead

Full-Time 55000 - 65000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
University of Oxford

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead security and compliance for Oxford's innovative Trusted Research Environment.
  • Company: Join a prestigious university committed to world-leading research.
  • Benefits: 38 days annual leave, generous family leave, hybrid working, and excellent pension scheme.
  • Other info: Engage with diverse stakeholders in a dynamic and supportive environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on research while ensuring data security and compliance.
  • Qualifications: Experience in information security management and strong communication skills required.

The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.

We are looking for an Information Security and Compliance Lead to ensure the secure and compliant development of Oxford's new Trusted Research Environment (TRE) for handling sensitive research data. As part of a small, agile team, you will work at the heart of platform governance – shaping processes that meet regulatory and data provider requirements while supporting world‑leading research. You will lead certification processes, oversee risk and audit frameworks, and collaborate with central assurance teams to deliver robust security and compliance. Your work will also ensure that users are appropriately trained and authorised, and that access controls remain effective as the TRE evolves.

Qualifications

  • Proven experience in information security management, ideally with CISSP certification or equivalent qualification or experience
  • Familiarity with security standards and legislation in academic/research contexts
  • A track record of responding to security incidents and overseeing risk management
  • Excellent communication skills – able to convey complex security concepts to diverse stakeholders
  • Strong initiative, independence, and a user‑centred mindset
  • An ability to navigate and work effectively within university governance structures – engaging constructively with assurance teams, researchers, and leadership to get things done in a complex environment

Benefits

  • 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service
  • One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full‑pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full‑pay paternity/partner leave
  • A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle
  • An excellent contributory pension scheme
  • Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans
  • Access to a vibrant community through social, cultural, and sports clubs

If you’re passionate about enabling research that changes lives, we want to hear from you.

Information Security and Compliance Lead employer: University of Oxford

As an employer, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to make a meaningful impact in the realm of research data security. With generous benefits such as 38 days of annual leave, a robust family leave scheme, and a commitment to flexible working arrangements, we support our team members' well-being and professional growth. Join us in Oxford, where you will be at the forefront of shaping secure processes that enable world-leading research while enjoying access to a vibrant community and excellent employee benefits.
University of Oxford

Contact Detail:

University of Oxford Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Information Security and Compliance Lead

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the information security and compliance field, especially those connected to Oxford. Attend relevant events or webinars to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.

✨Tip Number 2

Showcase your expertise! Prepare to discuss your experience with security standards and risk management in detail during interviews. Use real-life examples to demonstrate how you've tackled challenges in previous roles.

✨Tip Number 3

Be proactive! If you see a job opening on our website, don’t just apply – follow up with a friendly email expressing your enthusiasm. This shows initiative and can help you stand out from the crowd.

✨Tip Number 4

Practice your communication skills! Since you'll need to convey complex security concepts to diverse stakeholders, consider doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your ability to explain these ideas clearly.

We think you need these skills to ace Information Security and Compliance Lead

Information Security Management
CISSP Certification or Equivalent
Risk Management
Incident Response
Knowledge of Security Standards and Legislation
Communication Skills
User-Centred Mindset
Governance Navigation
Collaboration with Assurance Teams
Stakeholder Engagement
Process Shaping
Access Control Management
Training and Authorisation Oversight

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Information Security and Compliance Lead. Highlight your experience in information security management and any relevant certifications like CISSP. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about securing sensitive research data and how you can contribute to our agile team. Keep it engaging and make sure to mention your familiarity with academic security standards.

Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since you'll be conveying complex security concepts to diverse stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your communication prowess. In your application, use clear and concise language, and maybe even include examples of how you've successfully communicated in past roles.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our community!

How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford

✨Know Your Security Standards

Make sure you brush up on the key security standards and legislation relevant to academic and research contexts. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you understand the landscape and can navigate it effectively.

✨Showcase Your Incident Response Skills

Prepare specific examples of how you've responded to security incidents in the past. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and ability to manage risk, which is crucial for the role.

✨Communicate Complex Concepts Simply

Practice explaining complex security concepts in a way that anyone can understand. This is vital as you'll need to engage with diverse stakeholders, so being clear and concise will set you apart.

✨Engage with Governance Structures

Familiarise yourself with university governance structures and think about how you would engage with assurance teams and leadership. Showing that you can work within these frameworks will highlight your initiative and user-centred mindset.

Information Security and Compliance Lead
University of Oxford

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