Head of Security

Head of Security
Norwich, Norfolk
Highly Competitive Salary

Service Service are working with a leading organisation in the defence sector who are seeking an experienced Head of Security to join their senior leadership team. This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of the security function for a well-respected organisation that plays a key role in supporting UK Government and Defence operations.

The Role:
As Head of Security, you will be responsible for shaping and leading the company’s security strategy, ensuring full compliance with UK Government, Defence, and industry security standards. You will act as the organisation’s foremost authority on security, working closely with the executive team and liaising with government security bodies to mitigate risk, strengthen compliance, and foster a culture of security awareness across the business.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, lead, and implement a comprehensive security strategy that meets statutory and contractual obligations.
  
  
• Ensure compliance with UK security regulations, including GovS007, Security Aspects Letters (SALs), and the CAA Known Consignor scheme.
  
  
• Oversee physical, personnel, and information security, including access control, vetting processes (BPSS, SC, DV), and classified material management.
  
  
• Lead investigations into security incidents and ensure appropriate reporting and resolution.
  
  
• Promote a security-first culture through training, communication, and leadership.
  
  
• Manage security risk assessment processes, identifying and mitigating risks effectively.
  
  
• Prepare for and manage security audits from external bodies such as the MoD and CAA.
  
  
• Build and maintain relationships with government agencies, law enforcement, and accrediting bodies.
  
  
• Act as Security Programme Manager for the Known Consignor scheme, ensuring compliance with CAA requirements.
  
  Skills and Experience Required:
  
  
• Significant experience in a senior security leadership role within a defence or other high-security environment.
  
  
• Strong knowledge of UK Government security frameworks (e.g., GovS007), MoD security requirements, and the Known Consignor scheme.
  
  
• Proven experience managing security vetting and personnel clearance processes (BPSS, SC, DV).
  
  
• Expertise in risk management, compliance reporting, and audit preparation.
  
  
• Experience engaging with government security stakeholders and external security bodies.
  
  
• Policy development and continuous improvement experience.
  
  
• Multi-site security management experience is highly desirable.
  
  Qualifications:
  
  
• DISA-accredited Security Controller and Personnel Security & Vetting training (Document/Information Security, Security Clearance Procedures).
  
  
• Relevant professional security qualification (e.g., CSyP, CPP, MSc Security & Risk Management).
  
  
• BTEC Level 2 – Applying Security Controls within the Defence Industry.
  
  
• Willingness to undertake regular training to stay up to date with new security policies and regulations.
  
  Security Clearance:
  It is essential that you are able to meet the relevant SC Security clearance criteria for this role.
  
  How to Apply:
  If you have the skills and experience to lead as the Head of Security, then click “Apply Now”.
  
  A member of our team will be in touch to discuss your application in more detail