Overview
GCHQ is an intelligence, cyber and security agency with a mission to keep the UK safe. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), part of GCHQ, is the UK Government’s lead authority on cyber security. The organisation aims to make the UK the safest place to live and work online.
Job Description
As a Cyber Security Consultant, you will deliver expert cyber consultancy to critical systems and major projects across government and the wider public sector. You will lead and support large-scale interventions that enhance cyber resilience at a national level, ensuring that the UK’s most vital services are protected against evolving threats. You will establish strong partnerships with departments and agencies and collaborate closely with teams across the NCSC, including technical specialists and incident response teams, to ensure a joined-up and effective approach.
What will the successful candidate be doing
* Protect critical systems and shape the UK’s cyber resilience.
* Provide expert advice to senior stakeholders, helping them to manage cyber risks effectively and embed robust security measures from the beginning of major projects.
* Coordinate and lead efforts that bring together internal and external stakeholders to tackle large-scale cyber challenges across government and sector boundaries.
* Offer a blend of technical expertise, incident response support, and strategic guidance from the full range of NCSC services.
* Represent the NCSC at forums and events, influencing national cyber policy and championing best practice across sectors.
* Use customer insights to refine and enhance delivery, ensuring interventions are data-driven, relevant and impactful.
Person Specification
We’re seeking a passionate and skilled professional with experience in cybersecurity, consultancy, or policy, or the ability to demonstrate how you’ll develop these skills and explain why you want to work as a Cyber Consultant in the Government Team.
* Proven experience preparing and coordinating briefings for ministers and senior officials, ensuring complex information is communicated clearly at the highest levels; strong communication skills and ability to build productive stakeholder relationships.
* Ability to perform effectively in high-pressure situations and deliver results; experience collaborating with organisations across diverse sectors and navigating different cultures.
* Strong skills in risk management and project oversight, ensuring objectives are met while identifying and addressing challenges proactively.
GCHQ Competencies
The NCSC will assess you against competencies used by the UK Intelligence Community, based on Civil Service Behaviours. Level 3 competencies include: Driving Innovation and Change; Communicating and Influencing; Working Collaboratively; Making Effective Decisions; Delivering Outcomes.
Benefits and Rewards
At NCSC and GCHQ we offer an inclusive and supportive environment with comprehensive training and development opportunities. You’ll receive a starting salary of £44,044. Other benefits include:
* 25 days annual leave rising to 30 days after 5 years, plus 10.5 days public and privilege holidays
* Flexible working options
* Performance recognition through our employee scheme
* Interest-free season ticket loan
* Cycle to work scheme
* On-site facilities such as gym, restaurant and coffee bars (at some locations)
* Paid parental and adoption leave
* Civil Service pension
Equal Opportunities
We welcome applications from everyone and value diversity and inclusion to reflect the society we serve.
Disability Confident
GCHQ is a Disability Confident Leader. The minimum criteria include ability to work with external stakeholders, effective written and verbal communication, and ability to explain technical issues and collaborate with varied teams.
What to Expect
Recruitment is fair, transparent and based on merit. Stages: online application, application sift, interview, and conditional offer. You must pass each stage to progress; the process including vetting may take 6–9 months. Do not leave your current employment until you have received a final offer.
Before You Apply
To work at the NCSC, you must be a British citizen or hold dual British nationality. This role requires Developed Vetting (DV). Consider applying from within the UK. The role is based in Manchester; you should live within a commutable distance as relocation costs are not offered. The closing date is 17/09/25 at 23:55. Right to Withdraw statements may apply.
Please note this message contains other important notes about eligibility and the application process.
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