The UK Cyber Security Council has appointed Andrew Jones as the Chair of its Professional Standards Working Group. This significant appointment recognizes Andy’s extensive contributions to the advancement of the UK’s cyber security industry, including his two-year tenure as service owner for several CESG (now NCSC) assured services, which encompassed product assurance, Certified Consultancy, Cyber Essentials, and Assured Penetration Testing (CHECK).
The UK Cyber Security Council, an independent organization funded by the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology (DSIT), has a core mission of establishing professional registration pathways for individuals and providing a platform for Government entities, public sector organizations, industry regulators, critical national infrastructure (CNI), and commercial enterprises to select qualified professionals tailored to their specific requirements. The Council, in collaboration with its members, is developing nationally recognized standards for all specializations within the cybersecurity field, aligning with the UK Government’s National Cyber Security Strategy and enhancing online safety for UK citizens both at home and in the workplace.
The newly established Professional Standards Working Group will play a crucial role in defining and upholding these professional standards. By harnessing sector-specific knowledge, the working group will facilitate innovation and thought leadership through various means, including expanding community participation within the cybersecurity profession, shaping recommendations based on pilot programs, raising awareness of cybersecurity specializations, collaborating with core council working groups, and defining professional titles.
Andy brings an impressive 38 years of experience in Central Government, International Government, and commercial consultancy, covering a wide range of delivery roles encompassing Cyber and Information Security, Intelligence, technical operations, crisis management, and complex project and program delivery. With a profound understanding of risk, Andy’s expertise will be invaluable in his role as Chair.
Reflecting on his appointment, Andy expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Cyber Security presents many challenges as society embraces the technological transformation that affects every aspect of our lives. As Chair of the Professional Standards Working Group, I am delighted to collaborate with the UK Cyber Security Council and industry colleagues who possess a deep understanding of the challenges and the professional standards required in the present and future.”
