Chief Information Security Officer

job description

Location: Liverpool, Darlington or Remote

Closing date: 9am, Monday 5th October 2026

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) performs a critical role in safeguarding communities and protecting vulnerable people across the United Kingdom. The information we hold and the services we provide are central to public trust, making security, resilience and responsible data management fundamental to our success. As DBS continues its digital transformation journey, we are seeking an outstanding security leader to help shape the future of cyber, information and operational security across the organisation.

Reporting to the Executive Director for Technology and Innovation, the Chief Information Security Officer will provide strategic leadership for information security, cyber security, operational security and data protection across DBS. This is a high-profile executive role with responsibility for ensuring that security and privacy are embedded within organisational decision-making, digital transformation programmes and day-to-day operations. The postholder will also act as Data Protection Officer, providing independent assurance and expert advice on compliance, risk and regulatory obligations.

As a trusted adviser to the Board, Executive Team and senior leadership community, you will develop and deliver a comprehensive security strategy that supports DBS's safeguarding mission while enabling innovation and transformation. You will oversee governance, risk management, operational security, resilience and incident readiness, ensuring that the organisation is equipped to respond effectively to an evolving threat landscape. You will also build a strong culture of security awareness and accountability, helping colleagues across DBS understand their role in maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of the services we provide.

We are looking for an accomplished and credible leader with extensive experience of developing and leading security, cyber and data protection functions within complex organisations. You will have a proven track record of influencing at Board level, managing strategic risk and driving improvements in security maturity. Alongside technical expertise, you will bring excellent judgement, commercial awareness and the ability to communicate complex security issues clearly and persuasively to a wide range of audiences.

This is an exceptional opportunity to lead security within an organisation where public trust is paramount. You will have the chance to shape the future security posture of DBS, protect nationally important services and play a central role in ensuring that innovation, resilience and safeguarding remain at the heart of everything we do.For further information contact dbsciso@gatenbysanderson.com