Defence Security & Compliance Officer

Our client, a leading organisation in the defence and advanced engineering sector, is seeking a Defence Security & Compliance Officer to join its team in Kidlington on a permanent basis. The role will support the protection of sensitive information, personnel, technical assets and business operations while ensuring compliance with UK Government and Ministry of Defence requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement and maintain security policies, standards and procedures aligned with GovS 007 and Def Stan 05-0138
• Support security assurance, auditing, monitoring and assessment activities across business areas and information systems
• Manage security risks relating to personnel, physical assets, information, contracts, suppliers and wider supply chains
• Oversee appropriate procedures and delegations for responding to security incidents and breaches, supporting investigations where required
• Manage security vetting processes, including Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) requirements
• Provide guidance on export controls, including ITAR and EAR, data protection and defence security obligations
• Deliver security training, inductions, briefings and awareness activities across the organisation
• Act as a senior security point of contact for government bodies, external agencies, suppliers and internal stakeholders

Job Requirements:

• Strong working knowledge of UK GovS 007 and its application within a defence contractor environment
• Significant experience leading or supporting a security function covering personnel, physical, information and contract security
• Understanding of Def Stan 05-0138, HMG security policies and relevant defence sector standards
• Experience in security auditing, risk assessment, incident response and data protection mechanisms
• Ability to assess emerging threats, geopolitical developments and defence sector risks
• Experience delivering security training and awareness programmes, including inductions and briefings
• Strong stakeholder management, leadership and communication skills, with the confidence to report to senior leadership
• Ability to support defence programme management, business development and strategy requirements

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to achieve and maintain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance
• Experience planning and managing international visits
• Willingness and ability to travel outside the UK when required
• Ability to work collaboratively across multiple business areas and with external suppliers

Benefits:

• Bonus scheme
• Aviva pension and group life assurance
• Group income protection and private medical insurance
• Electric car scheme and health cash plan
• Employee assistance programme
• Annual leave entitlement plus public holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave
• Childcare benefits
• Free on-site gym access and discounted national memberships

Our client is committed to creating an inclusive working environment where people from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to contribute and develop. If you have expertise in defence security, compliance, policy and risk management, apply now to help protect critical engineering and defence operations in Kidlington.