Information & Cyber Policy Lead - Inside IR35 - SC Cleared
The Information & Cyber Policy Lead will provide senior ownership of information security and cyber policy across a highly secure defence programme. The role combines strategic policy leadership with hands-on development and assurance, acting as the authority for how security policy is defined, interpreted and applied across the programme.
Operating at a head-of-function level in practice, this role ensures policy frameworks are aligned to defence standards, programme risk appetite and real-world delivery constraints within classified environments.
Key Responsibilities-
Own the end-to-end information and cyber security policy framework for the programme
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Set policy direction, standards and principles in line with defence security requirements
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Develop, maintain and review security policies, standards and supporting guidance
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Act as the senior point of authority for policy interpretation, waivers and exceptions
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Ensure policies are practical, implementable and aligned to operational realities
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Support assurance, audit and compliance activities across the programme
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Engage closely with cyber, engineering, assurance and programme leadership teams
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Drive continuous improvement of policy maturity, adoption and consistency
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Extensive experience in information and cyber security policy management
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Background operating at policy lead / head-of / senior manager level on secure or regulated programmes
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Strong understanding of risk-based security governance and assurance
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Experience aligning policy with complex technical and operational environments
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Proven ability to translate policy intent into actionable, delivery-focused guidance
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Comfortable operating as a senior authority with executives, assurance bodies and delivery teams
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SC clearance required (minimum)
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Highly secure defence programme with classified assets and restricted environments
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Hybrid working: Reading site, 2-3 days per week on site (expensable)
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Contract role, inside IR35, £500 - £600 p/d