At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic security initiatives and ensure compliance in a transforming tech environment.
- Company: Dynamic organisation transitioning to AI-first solutions with a focus on security.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and the chance to shape security strategy.
- Other info: High-autonomy role with significant impact on modernising security architecture.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovative security practices during a major organisational transformation.
- Qualifications: Proven executive security experience and hands-on knowledge of SOC2 and CMMC compliance.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 120000 £ per year.
Location: Colchester
Salary: £100,000 to £120,000 pro rata
Employment Type: Permanent, 2 days per week
Working Arrangements: Onsite working for 2 days a week
We are seeking an experienced Interim Chief Information Security Officer (Interim CISO) to provide strategic information security, compliance, and rigorous IT financial governance on a two day per week. This is a high-autonomy, top level representative role during a period of active organisational transformation, reporting to the CTO.
The organisation is actively transitioning away from legacy commercial SaaS platforms toward AI-first, customised add-ons built on proprietary Product Data Management (PDM) software and core ERP architectures to drive significant operating cost reductions with process optimisation. The incoming CISO will hold ultimate accountability for ensuring this lean, modernised architecture remains aggressively secure and audit-ready.
Core Responsibilities- AI-First Architecture & Security Scoping: Personally audit and define the compliance boundaries for newly deployed custom AI infrastructure. Ensure robust data handling, strict access controls, and correct isolation of proprietary data pipelines.
- Rigorous Framework Delivery: Maintain full operational control of an in-progress SOC2 Type 1/Type 2 compliance track via a GRP automation platform. Own the internal execution, documentation, and C3PAO assessment preparation for CMMC Level 2 (NIST SP 800-171) utilising a secure proxy architecture.
- Budget Ownership & Cost Consolidation: Take immediate custody of the IT OPEX budget. Ruthlessly consolidate a fragmented AI tooling footprint and manage vendor contract rationalisation following structural changes.
- Vendor & Operational Governance: Oversee all external IT vendor relationships and contract lifecycles. Provide clear technical escalation paths and strategic direction for our on-site IT technician.
- Proven Executive Security Experience: Demonstrated tenure as a CISO, Head of Information Security, or Security-focused IT Director in an organisation of 50–300 employees.
- Hands-on SOC2 & CMMC Tracking: Direct experience personally driving a SOC2 audit to completion and a deep, non-advisory familiarity with CMMC Level 2/NIST SP 800-171 compliance paths. Strong competence utilising GRC automation tools and encrypted enclave/secure proxy solution.
- Emerging Tech Literacy: A clear, practical understanding of security profiles, scoping, and data governance for custom LLM integrations and proprietary software ecosystems.
- Commercial Sharpness: Proven experience managing $500k+ IT budgets, reporting directly to the C-Suite/Board, and negotiating vendor agreements.
- Must come with a strong understanding of UK GDPR compliance and Cyber Essentials frameworks.
For more information, please contact Cathy Swain.
Interim Chief Information Security Officer in Chelmsford employer: Verso Recruitment Group
Join a forward-thinking organisation in Colchester as an Interim Chief Information Security Officer, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our IT security landscape. We offer a dynamic work culture that values innovation and autonomy, alongside competitive remuneration and flexible working arrangements. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, this position provides a unique opportunity to lead transformative projects while ensuring robust compliance and security in a rapidly evolving technological environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Chief Information Security Officer in Chelmsford
✨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 Verso Recruitment Group, 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 Verso Recruitment Group
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at Verso Recruitment Group. 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 Interim Chief Information Security Officer in Chelmsford
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 Verso Recruitment Group 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 Verso Recruitment Group that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at Verso Recruitment Group
✨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 Verso Recruitment Group 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 Verso Recruitment Group.
✨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.
