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Job overview
We’re seeking an experienced Head of Cyber Security to lead and shape our cyber security strategy. You’ll provide senior technical leadership, protecting critical systems and information assets. Working closely with executive leaders, you’ll manage risk, compliance, and incident response. You’ll lead and develop a specialist cyber security team and oversee SOC operations. This role is key to enabling secure digital transformation across the organisation.
Main duties of the job
Head of Cyber Security
About you: • Proven senior cyber security leadership experience • Strong knowledge of NHS / regulated environments • Expertise in ISO27001, GDPR, and cyber incident management • Confident communicator with inclusive, values‑based leadership
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Visa sponsorship is not possible for this role for either candidates or existing employees. This role does not meet the eligibility criteria for Skilled Worker/ Health and Care Worker visas as set out at gov.uk. Graduate visa holders should have no expectation of long-term employment through sponsorship. Additionally, your visa conditions and validity period must allow you to work in the role question and for a suitable period to allow training and execution without requiring sponsorship.
Please check the attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details about this role and its responsibilities.
Person specification
Experience
Essential
- Extensive experience in senior cyber security roles within complex, regulated environments (NHS or similar).
- Track record of delivering strategic security initiatives and operational excellence.
- Proven ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams and external partnership.
- Experience in developing and influencing complex stakeholder relationships to shape digital strategy, support informed decision-making, and manage expectations effectively.
- Experience in working across organisational boundaries, sharing best practice and contributing to system-wide planning and improvement
- Demonstrated success in delivering strategic technology initiatives and operational excellence at organisational scale.
- Experience in leading and developing high-performing teams and setting standards for delivery.
- Experience in setting and delivering strategic objectives
- Experience managing budgets and supplier contracts for large-scale technology services.
Skills / Competencies
Essential
- Proven ability to define and deliver enterprise-wide cyber security strategies
- Deep knowledge of security architectures, network security, cloud security, and identity management.
- Proven experience implementing ISO27001, GDPR, NHS digital standards, and national cyber frameworks.
- Expertise in managing major incidents, forensic investigations, and threat intelligence.
- Strong understanding of ITIL v4 principles and ability to integrate security into service delivery.
- Skilled in presenting complex security strategies to senior leadership and external stakeholders.
- Experience with security automation, SIEM platforms, and SOC operations.
- Knowledge of enterprise architecture frameworks (TOGAF).
- Familiarity with NHS Data Security and Protection Toolkit and Cyber Essentials Plus.
- Demonstrable compassionate and inclusive leadership.
- Experience in the application of HR processes.
- Demonstrable experience of line management responsibilities.
Values and Behaviours
Essential
- Working together – demonstrate collaborative and inclusive working and challenge behaviour that is not inclusive or acceptable.
Qualification and Knowledge
Essential
- Degree in Cyber Security, Information Security, or related discipline.
- CISSP or CISM certification.
- Evidence of continued professional and personal development.
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Applying for this NHS job
This advert is for Head of Cyber Security with North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust in Bolton, North West, England. It is listed as a Band 8 Estates and facilities role. The advertised salary is £66,582 - £77,368 PA. The contract type is Permanent. The application deadline is 13 Jul 2026.
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