Job Description

A member of the senior leadership team, responsible for setting the security strategy, providing expert advice, and delivering an operational service, in partnership with the relevant national bodies. Working closely and collaborating across NPL with key stakeholders ensuring appropriate processes and procedures are in place for the effective delivery of excellent science with impact, whilst ensuring that Security risks are identified and mitigated to an appropriate level to ensure a sustainable business performance aligned with our role as a national laboratory.




Accountable for safeguarding NPL's people, assets, information, and reputation. Lead the ongoing development and implementation of NPL's Security strategy, responding to the rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape and increased demand for NPL's services. Work closely with Cyber Security and Trusted Research colleagues to deliver a coordinated, organisation-wide approach to risk management. Ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory obligations, lead proactive threat identification and risk mitigation, and build strong internal and external stakeholder relationships to maintain resilience and trust within an increasingly complex security environment


Experienced in developing and implementing Security strategies, providing a professional service that aligns security requirements with business needs and taking a pro-active approach to identifying trends and anticipating risks Provide inspirational leadership to ensure NPL's mission, strategy and plans are articulated and understood inside and outside the organisation, that employees and partners are excited by, engaged with and focussed on its successful delivery to maximise impact and growth. Build strategic relationships with national security agencies, supply chains and internal customers that will enhance NPL's ability to deliver its mission, its reputation and remain sustainable. Drive the performance and potential of employees and external consultants & contractors, building highly motivated, customer focused and performing teams. Ensure compliance with appropriate internal and external governance including quality, health, safety, security and environmental legislation minimising risk to the business and enhancing NPL's reputation. Support continuous improvement to ensure efficient and effective operational delivery. Act as a brand ambassador for NPL, maximising NPL's external reputation

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.

You will need to have an SC clearance with no restrictions, or you must have the ability to obtain an SC clearance.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.


The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. Find out more about what it is like working here - The measure of us - Overview

NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.


At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we ensure we're creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome. More about this on our Diversity & Inclusion page.


We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of rewards, benefits and recognition. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we're always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.