June 05, 2023
Director of Strategy at The Cyber Scheme, Andy Jones has secured the role of Chair of the Professional Standards Working Group of the UK Cyber Security Council.
The UK Cyber Security Council has appointed Andrew Jones as Chair of its Professional Standards Working Group. This appointment reflects Andy’s many years of contribution to the development of the UK’s cyber security industry, including a two-year period as service owner for several CESG (now NCSC) assured services covering product assurance, Certified Consultancy, Cyber Essentials, and Assured Penetration Testing (CHECK).
The stated mission of The UK Cyber Security Council, an independent body funded by DSIT (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology), is to provide the route to professional registration for individuals and a platform to allow Government, Public sector, Industry Regulators, CNI and commercial organisations to select the right professionals for their needs. Nationally recognised standards across all the specialisms found in cybersecurity are being developed by the Council and its members, to help achieve the UK Government’s National Cyber Security Strategy, increasing online safety for UK citizens at home and at work.
The Professional Standards Working Group has been established to create and uphold these professional standards. The working group will be critical in helping to contribute critical sector knowledge, enabling innovation and thought leadership through:
- Widening community participation within the cyber security profession
- Shaping recommendations following pilot programmes
- Raising awareness of cyber security specialisms
- Collaborating with core council working groups
- Defining professional titles.
Andy brings 38 years’ experience in Central Government, International Government, and commercial consultancy in a wide range of delivery roles covering Cyber and Information Security, Intelligence, technical operations, crisis management and complex project and programme delivery and has developed a deep understanding of risk.
Commenting on his appointment, Andy said: ” Cyber Security presents many challenges as society embraces the technology transformation that touches every aspect of life. As Chair of the PSWG I am pleased to be working with the UKCSC and colleagues from across the industry who bring a deep understanding of the challenges and the professional standards needed now and going forward”.