Non-Executive Director Technology and Digital Lead
GCHQ is the United Kingdom's intelligence, security and cyber agency, working to identify, analyse and disrupt threats to the UK.
About Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ)
A UK public body whose statutory function includes foreign-focused signals intelligence. GCHQ uses technical capabilities, analysis and online effects across counter-terrorism, cyber security, serious and organised crime, strategic advantage and support to defence. It has publicly described responsible AI use in its national-security mission.
Skills
Candidate Availability
Required and preferred rules are kept separate and reflect the wording in the original posting.
About the Role
You will serve on the Board, contributing to strategy, direction, performance assessment, accountability, and governance. You will provide independent advice and challenge on major technology issues, digital modernisation, and AI adoption. You will coach directors, participate in Board committees, support cultural change, oversee risk management, and attend Board meetings and relevant secure-site activities.
Requirements
- Recent and extensive board- and executive-level experience in a complex organisation
- Leadership experience in a leading-edge technology environment
- Experience delivering significant transformation and large-scale change
- Track record in digital or technological improvement, innovation, and research and development
- Experience supporting, mentoring, and coaching directors
- Experience delivering equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives and culture change
- British citizenship eligibility
- Normally resident in the UK for seven of the last ten years
- Ability to obtain Developed Vetting clearance
- No conflicts of interest
Responsibilities
- Provide strategic advice on digital modernisation and future direction
- Challenge major technology transformations and AI adoption
- Contribute to Board strategy, decision-making, governance, and performance oversight
- Provide independent counsel and constructive challenge to the Director and executives
- Ensure operations remain within the agreed risk appetite and risk-management framework
- Participate in Board committees and sub-committees
- Coach, mentor, and support directors
- Maintain current knowledge of the business, risks, regulatory environment, and legal framework
Benefits
- Reasonable travel and subsistence allowance
Hiring Process
Eligibility application and Situational Judgement Test → full application with suitability statement, CV, and technical career summary → application sift → telephone interview → virtual technical panel discussion → in-person panel interview → face-to-face discussion with the Director.