Head of Cyber Security and Risk

Company: Brighton & Hove City Council
Apply for the Head of Cyber Security and Risk
Location: Hove
Job Description:

Head of Cyber Security and Risk

Brighton & Hove City Council is breaking barriers and setting a new standard for what good looks like in tech: we move at breakneck speed, clear obstacles, deliver great technology, and have placed technology at the very heart of our strategy.

We are looking for an exceptional Head of Cyber Security & Risk to build a new service from the ground up and protect the council against one of its most significant risks.

You will define the council’s cyber security strategy, posture and risk approach, creating a robust modern cyber capability that meets national expectations and protects vital public services.

From compliance and audit through to incident response and threat intelligence, you will be the senior expert guiding the organisation through an increasingly complex security landscape.

In a world where cyber incidents can shut down councils for months, this is a mission‑critical role with real‑world consequences—and one where your expertise will directly safeguard services, residents and the city.

We want you to bring your experience and expertise to the table as one of six brand‑new heads of service: build the team your way, create a setup you believe in, set the standard for what you know good looks like. Set direction instead of waiting for it; find ways to get things done, instead of reasons not to; and deliver outcomes people notice and care about.

Encouraging a diverse workforce. Our city is known and loved for its diversity. We are committed to developing and retaining a workforce that is representative of the diverse communities we serve so we welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds. We particularly encourage applicants from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background, as well as those who identify as disabled, male or trans.

Responsibilities

  • Define and implement the council’s cyber security strategy, posture and risk framework.
  • Lead compliance, audit, incident response, threat intelligence and cyber governance.
  • Build and lead a cyber security and risk management service from the ground up.
  • Protect essential public services and safeguard residents and the city from cyber threats.
  • Set direction for the service, build the team, and establish best‑practice standards.
  • Act as a senior security advisor to the organisation, guiding through complex security landscape.

Qualifications

  • Extensive experience leading cyber security and risk management functions.
  • Strong knowledge of national security standards and expectations.
  • Proven track record in building and leading technical teams.
  • Strategic thinking and ability to drive outcomes in a fast‑paced environment.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Relevant professional qualifications or memberships in the cyber security field are desirable.

Benefits and package

Salary £70,591 – £75,505. Contractual hours 37. Package includes comprehensive wellbeing support, leave and pensions, training and development.

Location

Hove Town Hall, Norton Road, Hove, BN3 3BQ

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage candidates from under‑represented groups to apply.

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Posted: July 8th, 2026