About the job

The RSPB is seeking a proven cyber security leader to take full ownership of its cyber security strategy and operations. This is a critical and strategic role for someone who can make an immediate impact, bringing deep technical expertise to lead the organisation’s cyber security agenda. The Head of Cyber Security will be responsible for safeguarding digital infrastructure, data, and services, reporting directly to the Chief Digital Technology Officer. The successful candidate will shape and deliver a forward-thinking cyber strategy ensuring resilience, compliance, and a strong security culture. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing RSPB’s cyber security strategy, managing cyber risk, ensuring compliance with frameworks like ISO 27001 and NIST, leading incident response, advising trustees and executives, and embedding a cyber-aware culture across the organisation. Candidates must hold professional security certifications such as CISSP or CISM, have a degree in Cyber or Information Security, and possess at least 10 years of relevant experience, including 5 years in a senior leadership role. Strong knowledge of Azure, AWS, SaaS environments, and experience managing cyber security in large, complex organisations is essential. Excellent strategic leadership, communication, and crisis management skills are required. Desirable experience includes cyber leadership in the charity sector and contributions to national cyber policy. The role offers 37.5 hours per week, flexible working, and benefits such as a pension scheme, life assurance, and 26 days’ annual leave. This role is eligible for UK visa sponsorship.