Cybersecurity Lead

My client is Ireland's national regulator, responsible for safety, security and consumer protection across a highly specialised sector. They are now seeking an experienced Cybersecurity Lead to manage the implementation of cybersecurity oversight within their Security function.

The Role

You will lead the delivery of the National Civil Security Quality Control Programme, overseeing compliance with EU regulations including NIS 2 and Critical Entities Resilience (CER) requirements. You will manage and develop a cybersecurity implementation team, liaise with national and European authorities, and represent the organisation at bodies including ICAO, EASA, ECAC and the European Commission.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and manage the National Civil Security Quality Control Programme ensuring compliance with EU regulations, NIS 2 and CER requirements
• Lead, develop and empower the Cybersecurity Implementation team, fostering a high-performance culture
• Advise senior leadership on cybersecurity oversight matters including enforcement actions
• Manage entity approvals and contribute to Ireland's annual report to the European Commission
• Develop and maintain operational policies, procedures, and guidance material for regulated entities
• Liaise with national competent authorities and key internal stakeholders on NIS 2 and CER implementation
• Coordinate and facilitate State and regulatory inspections of cybersecurity controls in the sector
• Represent the organisation at ICAO, EASA, ECAC, EUROCONTROL and European Commission committees (international travel required)
• Develop and maintain a communications plan to keep regulated entities informed of regulatory developments and best practices

What You'll Need

• 8 to 10+ years in cybersecurity with at least 3 years in a leadership or regulatory oversight role
• Degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science or related discipline (NFQ Level 6 minimum)
• Demonstrated experience in security compliance, risk assessment and standards implementation (ISO 27001, NIST CSF, etc.)
• Experience working in highly regulated sectors such as public sector or critical infrastructure
• Strong background in incident response, threat awareness and audit/inspection methodologies
• Ability to obtain top secret national security clearance
• Proficiency across the full Microsoft O365 suite
• Certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CISA, CCSP or GIAC qualifications are highly desirable
• Experience in international cybersecurity policy, EU cyber certification schemes or forensic investigation is a distinct advantage