Cybersecurity in the UK government has never been more critical, as public services, critical infrastructure, and national security rely on resilient and innovative defenses. The individuals on this list are driving the country’s cyber agenda forward. While some hold the official title of Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), others operate in strategic roles closely tied to cybersecurity leadership, making them influential figures to watch in the coming years.
Glen Hymers — Deputy Director Cyber and Information Security (CISO), Cabinet Office
Glen Hymers is an award-winning security leader dedicated to safeguarding IT and data infrastructure while delivering significant cost savings. As the Cabinet Office’s Deputy Director Cyber and Information Security, he oversees national-level cyber risk management, governance, and incident response frameworks. Glen is passionate about embedding security awareness across teams, integrating emerging technologies, and supporting secure digital transformation. Recognized as the 2021 Cyber OSPAs Outstanding CISO and 2022 PICCASO Privacy Leader of the Year in the Public Sector, he exemplifies innovation and practical excellence in public-sector cybersecurity.
Ciaran Osborn — Chief Information Security Officer, UK Government
With nearly three decades in government service, Ciaran Osborn focuses on creating and implementing cyber security strategy across the public sector. A Certified CISO with a master’s in Information Technology Security, he motivates and aligns technical teams to enable business delivery, overseeing both operational and industrial control system security. His leadership ensures cyber resilience is embedded at every level of government IT operations.
Ciaran Martin — President, CISO Network EMEA, SANS Institute
Founder of the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Ciaran Martin is a global authority on cybersecurity. While not a serving government CISO, his decades-long experience in senior UK government roles, including HM Treasury, Cabinet Office, and GCHQ, has shaped national cyber policy and resilience. He continues to influence the next generation of cyber leaders as a professor at Oxford and through advisory roles across industry and public-sector organizations.
Richard Horne — Chief Executive Officer, National Cyber Security Centre
Richard Horne leads the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, the country’s technical authority on cybersecurity. Under his leadership, the NCSC coordinates national cyber defense strategies, incident response, and guidance for both public and private sectors, solidifying the UK’s position as a global leader in cybersecurity.
Paul Chichester — Director of Operations, National Cyber Security Centre
With over 25 years in offensive and defensive cyber roles, Paul Chichester directs operations at the NCSC. Awarded an MBE in 2005 and a CMG in 2024, Paul’s work encompasses cyber defense strategy, intelligence, and incident response, making him a pivotal figure in protecting the UK’s critical infrastructure.
Kerry Gibson — Head of Cyber Security, UK Ministry of Defence
Kerry Gibson oversees cyber strategy and operational security for the Ministry of Defence. Her role ensures that the UK’s defense systems are resilient against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, balancing strategic planning with practical implementation across military and support operations.
Phil Huggins — Director (SCS2), Department of Health and Social Care
Phil Huggins serves as the Department of Health and Social Care’s National Chief Information Security Officer for Health and Care. He previously led cybersecurity for NHS Test & Trace and the Joint Cyber Unit, combining public health digital transformation with strong governance and cyber resilience frameworks. His expertise spans national infrastructure, enterprise architecture, and risk management.
Dr. Claudia Natanson, MBE — Chair Board of Trustees, UK Cyber Security Council
A globally recognized cybersecurity thought leader, Dr. Claudia Natanson guides the UK Cyber Security Council while advising governments and organizations worldwide. Awarded an MBE in 2022, she has been named one of the top cybersecurity leaders by multiple industry publications, and she continues to shape policy, governance, and resilience initiatives in both public and private sectors.
Pioneers and Guardians: Leading the Next Era of UK Government Cybersecurity
These professionals represent the vanguard of UK government cybersecurity. Whether holding the formal title of CISO or operating in closely related strategic roles, their leadership, vision, and expertise ensure that the UK remains resilient in the face of evolving cyber threats. By bridging technical mastery with strategic oversight, they not only protect national interests but also set a standard for innovation, collaboration, and excellence across the public sector.