UK Health Security Agency
Deputy Director Cyber Security
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Deputy Director Cyber Security
Deputy Director of Cyber Security
Locations: Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, London
Working Pattern: Full Time, Flexible Working, Job Share
About the Role
UKHSA has an exciting opportunity for a Deputy Director of Cyber Security to strengthen its capability in protecting digital assets.
Working closely with internal teams and key stakeholders (Government Security Group, NCSC, CPNI), the role will help build a resilient infrastructure that supports UKHSA’s ambition to become a global leader in health security—a critical component of national security.
You will be part of the Chief Data Officer (CDO) Group senior leadership team, uniting Trusted Data & Technology, Data & Digital, and Analysis & Intelligence Assessment. This Group leverages data, safeguards systems, and supports integrated analysis to assess health risks, inform policy, and protect public health.
The Trusted Data & Technology Directorate (TDT) delivers impact by transforming the UK’s approach to public health data, analytics, and surveillance. It comprises four divisions: Information Management & Privacy, Data Strategy & Performance, Technology, and Cyber Security.
As Deputy Director Cyber Security, reporting to the Director of TDT, you will lead and develop an effective, resilient cyber function that protects UKHSA from threats.
This role involves:
- Leading a mixed team of civil servants and managed service providers.
- Embedding a strong security culture.
- Maintaining robust incident response.
- Ensuring long-term resilience of networks, systems, and data.
- Managing the division’s budget and contracts within a fast-paced environment with competing priorities.
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You will also contribute to wider senior leadership, supporting an inclusive culture and fulfilling a strong corporate role across UKHSA.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and motivate cyber security teams (comprising civil servants and contractors).
- Horizon-scan and plan for emerging cyber threats, collaborating with NHS England, NCSC, CPNI, and other government bodies.
- Promote a strong security culture across UKHSA.
- Develop cyber capability within the team and wider organisation.
- Ensure robust, tested resilience and incident response plans.
- Embed "secure by design" principles across systems and programmes.
- Develop metrics to inform SIRO governance and risk management.
- Oversee budget, contracts, and financial accountability adhering to public sector standards.
Leadership & Reporting Responsibilities
Reporting to the Director of Trusted Data & Technology, you will:
- Develop and mature UKHSA’s cyber security function.
- Lead a team of approximately 42 staff and managed service partners.
- Support compliance programmes (e.g., DSPT-CAF).
- Act as a senior cyber advisor to the UKHSA SIRO, contributing to governance and risk escalation.
- Provide balanced advice across operational, information, IT, and supply chain security.
- Manage responses to cyber threats impacting services and data.
- Oversee delegated budgets and commercial processes.
The role requires you to:
- Stay current with a rapidly evolving technical landscape.
- Maintain strong relationships across government and industry.
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Person Specification
Your CV and Statement of Suitability must evidence and clearly demonstrate examples of proven experience in meeting the following essential selection criteria:
Cyber Security Expertise
A proven cyber security professional capable of engaging technical audiences. Requirements include:
- Strong practical cyber knowledge.
- Relevant qualifications, where applicable.
Leadership
An exceptional people leader with a track record of:
- Building, leading, and developing diverse security teams.
- Supporting organisational goals and fostering individual career growth.
Influencing & Stakeholder Management
A highly effective communicator and accomplished stakeholder manager who:
- Influences at senior levels.
- Builds trusted relationships across internal and external partners.
Decision-Making & Problem Solving
The ability to:
- Navigate complex challenges within a fast-changing environment.
- Draw on expertise from others to manage risks and make sound decisions at pace.
Risk, Compliance & Governance
A robust understanding of cyber security legal and regulatory requirements, including:
- GDPR and NIS.
- Ability to balance threats and mitigations to provide clear, risk-based recommendations.
Commercial & Financial Acumen
Strong commercial and financial awareness with experience in:
- Driving efficiency.
- Delivering value for money.
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