The role is an exciting opportunity for an inspiring and collaborative leader to continue the development of one of the UK’s most successful cyber security clusters. CyberNorth has developed exponentially over the past few years responding to the need for the North East to grow strong cyber security businesses, create innovative cyber solutions and develop cutting edge cyber skills, and connects 100 businesses and drives significant regional investment.
This role will offer the post holder a huge amount of flexibility to be innovative and creative, to find new ways to engage and to bring the cyber and digital community even closer, for the benefit of the wider business community.
With the development of the North East’s AI growth zone, the growing defence and space sectors in the region, cyber is on everyone’s lips. This is a chance to make a difference, support the growing sectors in the region and ensure that the North East is an incredibly safe place to work and study online.
The role will suit someone who builds strong, trusted relationships and enjoys developing them across industry, government and academia.
You will bring creativity, innovation and leadership experience with the ability to inspire and leading a small, talented team and managing a budget derived from multiple public and private sources.
Experience of managing funding or working within purpose-led or partnership-based organisations would be an advantage as would experience of managing funding from multiple public and private sources.
Key responsibilities of the role
- Lead and Execute Strategy: Define the overarching strategy for the Community Interest Company (CIC), aligning all internal operations and external partners to achieve the vision of making the North East the UK’s most connected and collaborative cyber hub. Team leadership including line management of a small team of in-house and contractor staff; setting priorities, supporting staff and measuring performance
- Revenue and Partnership Development: Working with private and public sector to seek funding opportunities, projects and revenue generating opportunities in addition to working with existing partners to build strong partnerships.
- Voice of the North East Cyber Sector: Working with members to understand their needs and advocating for them at a local and national policy level, particularly to leverage opportunities arising from the region’s growth in AI, defence, and space sectors.
- Operational and Financial Stewardship: Oversee the effective day-to-day management of the CIC, including finance, governance, planning, HR, and contract management.
Key skills required for the role
- Proven strategic leadership skills gained over 3 years in senior management or a similar director-level role.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to engage stakeholders of all levels and backgrounds
- A passion for cyber and growing the sector in the North East
- Demonstrated experience in securing, managing, and reporting on funding from multiple public and private sources, including developing revenue-generating opportunities
If you’re purpose-driven and passionate about supporting a thriving, collaborative cyber community in the North East, we’d love to hear from you, whatever your background or career path.
We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive community where everyone feels they belong. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, and we’re happy to discuss any adjustments or support you may need throughout the recruitment process.
- Contract: Permanent, Full-time (Flexible working arrangements are available)
- Location: Hybrid working, based in the North East, UK (requires regional and national travel)
- Reporting: Reports to the CyberNorth Board of Directors
- Salary: £65,000 – £75,000 per year (FTE)
Application Details
- How to Apply: Submit a CV and Cover Letter demonstrating how your experience aligns with the strategic responsibilities to hello@cybernorth.biz
- Application Deadline: Monday 1st December 2025
- Interview Dates: First stage interviews will be scheduled for early December.
Diversity and Inclusion
We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive community where everyone feels they belong. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, and we’re happy to discuss any adjustments or support you may need throughout the recruitment process.