Chief Information Security Officer

Shape the Future of Cyber Leadership in Higher Education

The University of Leeds is seeking a visionary and strategic Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead the transformation of our digital security landscape. As one of the UK’s largest and most respected research-intensive universities, we are committed to tackling global challenges through innovation, collaboration, and excellence.

The post holder will be an integral member of the IT Executive Leadership team and will work closely with members of the University Executive Group to ensure our security standards and protocols enable the University to deliver its strategic aims and objectives across student education, research & innovation, and international collaboration. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of cyber resilience in a globally recognised institution.

About the Role

Reporting to the Chief Digital and Information Officer (CDIO) and with a dotted line to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), the CISO will:

• Lead and implement a University-wide information and cyber security strategy
• Design modern security architecture and foster a zero-trust approach
• Sustain and empower a high-performing cyber security team  
• Collaborate with stakeholders across the University to facilitate change and align security with academic freedom and research integrity  
• Represent Leeds in national and sector-wide cyber security initiatives  
• Foster a culture of awareness, ownership and proactive cyber hygiene

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for an exceptional leader who brings:

• Proven success in senior information security roles within large, complex organisations
• A strategic mindset with the ability to align cyber priorities to business outcomes
• Emotional intelligence and the ability to inspire, influence, and empower others
• A collaborative approach to leadership and a commitment to inclusion and diversity
• Deep expertise in areas such as governance, risk management, compliance (ISO27001, PCI-DSS, Cyber Essentials), identity and access management, threat and vulnerability management, and cloud/network security

Why Join Us?

• One of the best pension schemes in the UK
• 42 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays and University closure days
• Family friendly policies
• Access to wellbeing, learning, and lifestyle resources
• Sector discounts 
• Opportunities for continued professional development and sector engagement

The candidate brief contains further information about the role.  Should you require any additional details or wish to have a confidential, informal discussion please contact Masud Khokhar, Chief Digital and Information Officer: m.khokhar@leeds.ac.uk 

To apply for the role, please submit a CV and supporting statement of not more than 3 pages of A4, providing how your knowledge and expertise equip you to carry out the role set out in the candidate brief.