Locations: Cheltenham, London, Manchester
Closing Date: 23:55 on Monday 23rd March 2026
Salary: £96,981 – £130,000, plus a non‑concessionary payment of £3,030 (subject to security compliance) and a London Pay Addition of £6,250 if contracted to London.
Grade: SCS 1 – Open to applicants on promotion
Working Pattern: Flexible working arrangements will be considered; a small amount of home working is possible but the role is primarily office based.
Clearance: DV clearance required
About Us
GCHQ is the nation’s intelligence, cyber and security agency. We work to make the UK the safest place to live and work online; connect the national security community securely; and provide insights and counter‑threats through SIGINT and effects. We collaborate with MI5, MI6, defence, international and industry partners across the UK and overseas, and we live by the values of ingenuity, integrity, impact and teamwork.
About The Role
We are seeking an outstanding Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead cyber security and information governance across the UK Intelligence Community (UKIC). Accountable to the UKIC Infosec Director, the CISO will shape the strategic direction of information security, ensuring operational resilience and secure innovation in support of national intelligence objectives.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop, maintain and articulate a clear understanding of the cyber and information security risks across the organisation.
* Create and implement an information security strategy that balances capabilities, acceptable risk and technological progress.
* Ensure an effective cyber and information security governance framework integrated with overall organisational governance.
* Define and track cybersecurity KPIs, producing regular executive and board‑level reports on security posture.
* Advise senior leadership on potential risks and implications of major decisions to enable safe innovation.
* Oversee the creation and implementation of relevant policies and standards for effective information risk management.
* Identify and deliver opportunities for improvement of the security operations function to enable timely detection and response to incidents.
* Lead and mentor high‑performing information security professionals, fostering a culture of professional development.
* Play a leading role in multiple technical and programme boards.
* Work closely with stakeholders across the UK Intelligence Community to embed cyber security at all levels.
Essential Criteria, Qualifications and Experience
* Exceptional communication skills with the ability to present complex security concepts to diverse audiences.
* Proven experience developing and implementing information security strategies and policies within complex organisations.
* In‑depth understanding of cybersecurity threats, technologies and risk‑management practices.
* Professional certification such as CISSP, CISM or CCISO (highly desirable).
* Deep understanding of cloud security.
* Experience leading an operational cyber security function or delivering cyber security capabilities.
* Extensive knowledge of relevant public and private sector cyber security practice.
SCS Competency Framework
* Seeing the Big Picture
* Making Effective Decisions
* Driving Innovation and Change
* Providing Customer Value
How to Apply
To apply, please copy and paste the following into the relevant sections of the application form:
* Statement of suitability outlining how your personal skills, qualities and experiences demonstrate your suitability for the role.
* CV setting out your career history, key responsibilities and achievements. Include reasons for any gaps within the last two years.
All information must be submitted through the official GCHQ application portal. The process consists of an initial eligibility check and a full application stage. For any queries, email seniorrecruitment@gchq.gov.uk.
What to Expect
* Initial eligibility check against essential criteria.
* Staff Engagement Session with a small group of GCHQ staff (if shortlisted).
* Panel interview assessing motivational fit, values, competency evidence and technical experience.
* Processing time may take 6‑9 months including vetting.
Terms & Conditions
This role is open to civil‑service employees transferring from another agency. Minimum salary is £96,981 plus the non‑concessionary payment and London Pay Addition (if applicable). The role requires UK Intelligence Community Developed Vetting, including validation checks, induction and drug and alcohol tests.
Rewards and Benefits
* 25 days annual leave, rising automatically to 30 days after 5 years’ service plus 10.5 public and privilege holidays.
* Recognition through the employee performance scheme.
* Interest‑free season ticket loan.
* Excellent pension scheme.
* Cycle to work scheme.
* Facilities such as gym, restaurant and on‑site coffee bars (some locations).
* Paid parental and adoption leave.
Equal Opportunities
GCHQ is committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, including women, ethnic minorities, people with disabilities and those from low socio‑economic backgrounds.
Right to Withdraw Statement
We reserve the right to adjust the closing date in response to the number of applications received. Please submit your application at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment.
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