Head of Cyber Security

Overview

Head of Cyber Security – Lead the Mission to Protect Islington’s Public Services

Islington Council is seeking a strategic, inspiring leader to head cyber security, safeguarding the community’s data and digital services. In this high-profile role you’ll set the direction of the council’s cyber security strategy and lead a team of experts to keep systems secure, resilient, and ready for the future. This is an opportunity to protect critical public services that thousands of residents rely on every day.

• Be the council’s go‑to authority on all things cyber and advise senior leaders on emerging risks and best practices.
• Develop and enforce robust security policies, oversee governance and compliance, and champion a culture of vigilance across the organisation.
• Shape long‑term defence strategy and lead swift, effective responses to incidents to keep essential services and data safe.
• Coach and empower a dedicated cyber security team and the wider organisation to be proactive guardians of the digital environment.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the council to maintain public trust and ensure services run securely.

• Experienced cyber security professional with strategic, big‑picture thinking and strong leadership in people and projects.
• Ability to communicate complex cyber risks in plain language to technical teams and senior executives.
• Keeping current with the latest threats and innovations, always looking for ways to improve and innovate.
• Commitment to public service and protecting a diverse community through robust cyber defence.
• Natural collaborator who can inspire others and make sound decisions under pressure.

We live by the CARE values – Collaborative, Ambitious, Resourceful, Empowering. These values shape how we work together to serve residents. You will embody these values, collaborate across the council, drive security improvements, use expertise resourcefully, and empower staff to prioritise cyber security.

This role offers a hybrid workstyle – remote work for much of the week with at least one day in the office (Islington, London) to connect with the team and stakeholders. Flexibility is valued as long as the job gets done. Please note that the successful candidate will need to pass a Basic DBS check and BPSS security check. The role is politically restricted to maintain impartiality in safeguarding public trust.

This is a chance to lead a critical function at the heart of public service. You’ll set strategy, build a robust cyber defence, and influence how we protect Islington in the digital age. We offer ongoing professional development, support from a committed leadership team, and the knowledge that your work contributes to residents’ wellbeing.

Our offer to you includes:

• Up to 31 days of leave per year, increasing to 36 days after five years of local government service
• Flexible working arrangements and a 35‑hour week
• Learning and development opportunities
• Competitive pay and the London Living Wage at minimum
• Excellent local government pension scheme
• Cycle to Work scheme and discounted gym memberships
• Local discounts from restaurants, shops, health and beauty providers

Please note: Priority will be given to those at risk of redundancy within Islington Council. Current redeployment pool staff will be prioritised if they meet essential criteria.

Any offer of employment will be subject to the successful completion of required pre‑employment checks. These may include:

• Proof of address
• Evidence of name changes (if applicable)
• Right to work in the UK
• Overseas criminal record check (if applicable)
• Satisfactory references
• Occupational Health clearance
• Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations
• DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable)

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. Some posts require Disclosure submissions to the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Islington Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities and supports reasonable adjustments during recruitment and throughout employment.