Head of Data and Information Security

London School of Science and Technology (LSST); Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading higher education institution in the UK is seeking a Head of Data and Information Security to provide strategic leadership in cyber security and information governance. This role is crucial for ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of information assets while reducing cyber risk across the institution. The ideal candidate will develop comprehensive strategies, oversee compliance with regulations, and coordinate responses to security incidents. The position offers competitive salaries, flexible working hours, and generous leave policies.

Benefits

Flexible working hours

Working from home opportunities

Generous annual leave

Tax-efficient pension scheme

Relocation allowance

Qualifications

• Experience in developing and delivering cyber security and information governance strategies.
• Ability to undertake risk assessments and maintain oversight of governance risks.
• Proven track record in ensuring compliance with legislation and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of data and information security strategies.
• Oversee security policy compliance and risk assessments.
• Coordinate responses to significant security incidents.

Skills

Cyber security strategy development

Information governance

Risk assessment

Incident response

Stakeholder relationship building

Job description

Job Description

The London School of Science & Technology (LSST) is one of UK’s leading, largest and fastest growing independent higher education provider with over 8000 students, 6 campuses and 3 university partnerships.

The team behind LSST is passionately committed to transforming lives by providing excellent education. We believe no matter what your background, your age or personal circumstances everyone is entitled to access a good education. We have one of the highest National Student Survey scores of 96.7%, placing us in the top 15 in the UK.

Job Purpose:

The Head of Data and Information Security provides strategic leadership and institutional oversight for cyber security and information governance at The London School of Science and Technology. The role is accountable for ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of LSST’s information assets and for reducing cyber and information risk across the institution.

The post holder will define, implement, and maintain LSST’s cyber security and information governance framework, working closely with Infrastructure Services, including IT Operations teams, who are responsible for the day-to-day operation of technical security controls.

Duties of the Role

• Develop and deliver a comprehensive cyber security and information governance strategy aligned with institutional objectives and the requirements of a complex higher education environment.
• Establish, maintain, and oversee information security and data governance policies, standards, and procedures.
• Undertake cyber security and information risk assessments and maintain oversight of cyber and information governance risks.
• Ensure institutional compliance with relevant legislation, regulatory requirements, and sector guidance.
• Work closely with senior leaders, service owners, and technical teams to ensure effective security monitoring, incident detection, response, and recovery.
• Provide oversight and assurance for third‑party and supplier security risk management.
• Build strong working relationships across the institution and embed a culture of shared responsibility for data protection and cyber security.
• Lead LSST’s cyber incident management and business continuity arrangements, ensuring institutional preparedness.
• Provide expert guidance on incident response processes and support local response arrangements.
• Coordinate and lead the institutional response to significant cyber or information security incidents, ensuring timely resolution and effective internal and external communications.
• Design and deliver a comprehensive information security and data protection awareness and training programme.
• Provide authoritative advice and assurance to the Executive and senior leadership on cyber security and information governance risks and controls.
• Translate complex technical and security risks into clear, actionable guidance to support informed decision‑making.
• Engage actively in external and professional networks to maintain awareness of emerging threats, regulatory developments, and sector best practice.
• Ensure LSST’s approach to data and information security remains current, proportionate, and effective.

Work-Life Balance:

We aim to support and provide a healthy work‑life balance for employees who may have personal commitments through the following:

• Flexible working hours
• Working from home opportunities
• Generous annual leave (28 days including bank holiday) increasing to 33 days after three years of continuous service)
• Additional leave between Christmas and New Year, in addition to all public holidays
• Special leave and compassionate leave for important occasions

Financial Benefits:

• A progressive pay structure with competitive salaries
• Tax‑efficient pension scheme by Aviva
• Relocation allowance
• Gift Vouchers
• Hardship assistance in exceptional circumstances

LSST IS COMMITTED TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES AND REPRESENTING THE DIVERSITY OF THE COMMUNITIES WE SERVE.

To apply, please click the 'Apply' button above ([e-mail])