Security Controller
Salary - £60,000 – £85,000 + bonus
Location - Cheltenham
Clearance - eDV Clearance Required
We are recruiting a Security Controller on behalf of a leading UK software consultancy with a growing portfolio of work across the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and national security agencies. The organisation is establishing a secure facility to support classified client programmes and requires a dedicated security professional to lead this critical function.
As Security Controller you will be the primary authority on all physical and personnel security matters, acting as the bridge between the business, the MOD, and other secure government contracting authorities.
Key Responsibilities
* Secure Facility Management & Compliance
* Act as the officially appointed Security Controller, responsible to the Board for all day-to-day security operations. Manage the receipt, storage, distribution, and disposal of classified documents and assets in accordance with government standards.
* Prepare for and manage external audits from MOD Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) and other accreditors.
* Maintain the Security Risk Management framework and Company Security Instructions.
* Complete annual Crypto audits and all associated filings.
* Manage strict access control for the facility, including vetting and escorting of visitors, contractors, and international guests in compliance with IVCO (International Visits Control Office) protocols.
Personnel Security (Vetting)
* Oversee the full lifecycle of United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and other clearances for all staff and associates.
* Conduct initial security briefings for new starters and fulfil ongoing aftercare duties.
* Ensure all personnel understand their obligations under the Official Secrets Act and the Security Policy Framework.
* Monitor and mitigate insider threats through risk assessments and close liaison with HR and line management.
Strategic Security Liaison
* Serve as the primary point of contact for government security officials.
* Lead the investigation and reporting of any security breaches or incidents to the relevant Contracting Authority and the Industry Security Assurance Centre (ISAC).
* Advise the Board and Senior Leadership Team on security implications of new contracts, office moves, or changes in company ownership or structure.
* Integrated Security Support
* Collaborate with the IT Manager (responsible for ISO 27001/Cyber Essentials Plus) to ensure physical and cyber security measures are fully aligned.
* Support the implementation of relevant ISO standards.
* Assist the bid team by providing security capability statements for tenders requiring facility clearances.
Essential Requirements
* British National (citizenship requirement for this role).
* Proven experience as a Security Controller or Deputy Security Controller within a UK Defence or National Security List X environment.
* Deep knowledge of the Security Policy Framework (SPF), Cabinet Office security controls, and List X requirements (specifically FSA/iv).
* Active Developed Vetting (eDV) clearance.
* Meticulous attention to detail; skilled in record-keeping including musters, visitor logs, and classified document registers.
Desirable
* DSIA / SyI membership or equivalent professional security qualifications.
* Experience liaising with the International Visits Control Office (IVCO) for overseas visits and classified exchanges.
* Experience establishing a new List X facility from scratch.
Why Apply?
This is a rare opportunity to shape the security function of a growing organisation at the heart of UK defence and national security. You will have direct board-level visibility, genuine influence over strategy, and the chance to build and own a security operation from the ground up.
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