Cyber Security Manager

As Cyber Security Manager, you will lead the delivery of a robust and forward-thinking cyber security service that safeguards Gateshead Council's digital assets, infrastructure and information. You'll manage a team of specialists, champion best practice, strengthen organisational resilience, and lead the implementation of innovative security solutions. This is a fantastic opportunity for a strategic cyber security leader who thrives on tackling complex challenges while helping to protect services that matter to local people.

What you'll get to do:

• Lead and develop the Council's Cyber Security Team, ensuring our systems, infrastructure and data remain secure, resilient and protected from emerging threats.
• Shape and deliver the Council's cyber security strategy, policies, standards and frameworks, driving best practice across the organisation.
• Lead the Council's cyber security governance, risk, compliance and assurance (GRC) programme, ensuring that risks are effectively managed, controls are regularly assessed, and assurance activities provide confidence that security obligations are being met.
• Design and implement security controls, standards and solutions that protect critical services while enabling innovation and digital transformation.
• Identify, assess, report and manage cyber security risks, ensuring effective mitigation measures are in place and organisational resilience is maintained.
• Develop and maintain cyber security assurance frameworks, performance measures and reporting mechanisms, providing clear insight to senior leaders on the effectiveness of security controls and the organisation's security posture.
• Lead cyber security projects and the implementation of new technologies, from business case development through to delivery and benefits realisation.
• Oversee compliance with relevant legislation, regulations, standards and industry best practice, supporting audits, inspections and accreditation activities where required.
• Develop and manage the team's work programme, resources and performance, creating a culture of continuous improvement and professional excellence.
• Provide expert advice and guidance to senior leaders, project teams and stakeholders, translating complex technical concepts into practical business solutions.
• Manage relationships with suppliers and partners, ensuring high-quality service delivery and value for money through effective contract and performance management.
• Champion cyber security awareness across the Council, promoting a security-first culture and helping colleagues understand their role in protecting information and systems.
• Lead on cyber resilience, business continuity and recovery planning, ensuring the Council is prepared to respond effectively to cyber incidents.
• Keep pace with emerging technologies, threats and industry developments, identifying opportunities to strengthen security and improve services.
• Produce high-quality reports, presentations and recommendations to support informed decision-making, including regular reporting on cyber risks, compliance, assurance outcomes and security performance.
• A degree in a relevant subject or significant equivalent experience in a senior cyber security role.
• CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional or similar industry recognised cyber security qualification.
• Extensive experience of leading cyber security services within a large, complex organisation, including the management and development of technical teams and resources.
• Proven expertise in developing and implementing cyber security strategies, policies and frameworks, ensuring compliance with legislation, standards and industry best practice.
• Strong technical knowledge of cyber security technologies and controls, including network security,…