Overview

About UsGCHQ is an intelligence, cyber and security agency with a mission to keep the UK safe. We use cutting-edge technology, ingenuity and partnerships to identify, analyse and disrupt threats. Working with our intelligence partners MI5 and MI6, we protect the UK from terrorism, cyber-attacks and espionage. At GCHQ you’ll do varied and fascinating work in a supportive and inclusive environment that puts the emphasis on teamwork. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), part of GCHQ, is the UK Government’s lead authority on cyber security. The organisation is at the heart of the Government’s cyber security strategy and aims to make the UK the safest place to live and work online.

Job Description

As a Cyber Security Consultant, you will play a pivotal role in delivering expert cyber consultancy to critical systems and major projects across government and the wider public sector. You will lead and support large-scale interventions that enhance cyber resilience at a national level, ensuring that the UK’s most vital services are protected against evolving threats. Establishing strong partnerships with departments and agencies is key to driving meaningful outcomes. You’ll collaborate closely with teams across the NCSC, including technical specialists and incident response teams, to ensure a joined-up and effective approach.

Responsibilities

Provide expert advice to senior stakeholders, helping them manage cyber risks effectively and embed robust security measures from the beginning of major projects.Lead and coordinate efforts across government and sector boundaries, bringing together internal and external stakeholders to tackle large-scale cyber challenges.Draw on the full range of NCSC services to offer technical expertise, incident response support and strategic guidance to meet customer needs.Represent the NCSC at forums and events, influencing national cyber policy and championing best practice across sectors.Use customer insights to refine and enhance delivery, ensuring interventions are data-driven, relevant and impactful.

Person Specification / Qualifications

Proven experience in cybersecurity, consultancy, or policy, or demonstrated ability to develop these skills and explain interest in a Cyber Consultant role in the Government Team.Experience preparing and coordinating briefings for ministers and senior officials, communicating complex information clearly at the highest levels.Strong communication skills and the ability to work with a wide variety of stakeholders to build productive relationships.Ability to perform effectively in high-pressure situations, delivering results when it matters most, and experience working with organisations across diverse sectors.Strong skills in risk management and project oversight, identifying challenges and addressing them proactively.

GCHQ Competencies

The NCSC will assess you against competencies used by the UK Intelligence Community, based on Civil Service Behaviours. Level 3 competencies assessed include:Driving Innovation and ChangeCommunicating and InfluencingWorking CollaborativelyMaking Effective DecisionsDelivering Outcomes

Further information on Civil Service Behaviours.

Benefits and Rewards

At NCSC and GCHQ, we are proud of our inclusive and supportive environment with comprehensive training and development opportunities. The starting salary is £44,044. Other benefits include:25 days annual leave rising to 30 days after 5 years, plus 10.5 days public and privilege holidaysFlexible working optionsEmployee recognition through performance schemesInterest-free season ticket loanCycle to work schemeOn-site facilities (gym, restaurant, coffee bars at some locations)Paid parental and adoption leaveCivil Service pension

Equal Opportunities

We value diversity and inclusion in our workforce and welcome applications from everyone, including groups under-represented in our workforce. We encourage applicants from women, ethnic minorities, people with disabilities and those from low socio-economic backgrounds.

Disability Confident

GCHQ is a Disability Confident Leader. We aim to ensure a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants who meet essential criteria are offered an interview. Minimum criteria include experience with external stakeholders, effective written and verbal communication skills, and ability to explain technical issues and collaborate with varied teams. Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process.

What to Expect

Our recruitment process is fair, transparent and merit-based. Stages include online application, sift, interview and conditional offer if successful. You must pass each stage to progress. Processing may take 6–9 months including vetting; consider continuing current employment until you have a final offer.

Before You Apply

To work at the NCSC, you must be a British citizen or hold dual British nationality. You may need Developed Vetting (DV) clearance. Read eligibility criteria and vetting information. We have a strict drugs policy; recreational drug use is not permitted during the application process. Create a separate email address for communications if possible to protect your privacy. The role is based in Manchester; relocation is not offered. Applications should be launched from within the UK.

Closing Date

The closing date for this role is 17/09/25 at 23:55.

Right to Withdraw

We reserve the right to bring forward the closing date if a sufficient number of applications are received. Submit your application early to avoid disappointment.

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