Chief Information Security Officer

University of Leeds; Leeds; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research-intensive university in the UK is seeking a Chief Information Security Officer to lead the cyber security transformation. The role involves developing security strategies and ensuring alignment with academic goals. Candidates should have a proven track record in senior security roles and a strong strategic mindset. This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous leave and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

One of the best pension schemes in the UK

42 days annual leave

Family friendly policies

Access to wellbeing resources

Sector discounts

Opportunities for professional development

Qualifications

• Experience in aligning cyber security with business outcomes.
• Ability to inspire and empower teams.
• Commitment to inclusion and diversity.

Responsibilities

• Lead and implement a University-wide information and cyber security strategy.
• Design modern security architecture and promote a zero-trust approach.
• Empower a high-performing cyber security team.

Skills

Proven success in senior information security roles

Strategic mindset

Emotional intelligence

Collaborative leadership

Deep expertise in governance and risk management

Job description

Shape the Future of Cyber Leadership in Higher Education

The University of Leeds is seeking a visionary and strategic Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead the transformation of our digital security landscape. As one of the UK's largest and most respected research-intensive universities, we are committed to tackling global challenges through innovation, collaboration, and excellence.

The post holder will be an integral member of the IT Executive Leadership team and will work closely with members of the University Executive Group to ensure our security standards and protocols enable the University to deliver its strategic aims and objectives across student education, research & innovation, and international collaboration. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of cyber resilience in a globally recognised institution.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and implement a University-wide information and cyber security strategy
• Design modern security architecture and foster a zero-trust approach
• Sustain and empower a high-performing cyber security team
• Collaborate with stakeholders across the University to facilitate change and align security with academic freedom and research integrity
• Represent Leeds in national and sector-wide cyber security initiatives
• Foster a culture of awareness, ownership and proactive cyber hygiene

Requirements

• Proven success in senior information security roles within large, complex organisations
• A strategic mindset with the ability to align cyber priorities to business outcomes
• Emotional intelligence and the ability to inspire, influence, and empower others
• A collaborative approach to leadership and a commitment to inclusion and diversity
• Deep expertise in areas such as governance, risk management, compliance (ISO27001, PCI-DSS, Cyber Essentials), identity and access management, threat and vulnerability management, and cloud/network security

Benefits

• One of the best pension schemes in the UK
• 42 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays and University closure days
• Family friendly policies
• Access to wellbeing, learning, and lifestyle resources
• Sector discounts
• Opportunities for continued professional development and sector engagement