AI Assurance Advisor

Job summary

We're MI6, also known as the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS). Our mission is to protect the security and economic wellbeing of the UK from overseas threats such as regional instability, terrorism, and cyber attacks. Working across the globe and in close partnership with MI5 and GCHQ, we help the Government to counter these threats through the provision of secret intelligence. A role in MI6 will see you providing vital support to this work, within a supportive and encouraging environment that puts the emphasis on teamwork.

Job description

Enhancing how we operate today will better prepare us for the challenges of tomorrow. That’s why we’re creating dedicated teams focused on bringing Artificial Intelligence (AI) into some of our most mission critical areas. As an AI Information Assurance Advisor, you'll play a central role in shaping how AI is assessed, trusted, and used responsibly at MI6 in both new capabilities and its integration into existing systems. Independent, authoritative, and close to the heart of the action, you'll make sure any AI capabilities are secure, aligned to recognised national frameworks, and our risk appetite. You'll translate that assurance into clear, actionable documentation for project teams, governance boards, and the senior leadership team alike.

As part of a close-knit Information Security (InfoSec) team, you’ll carry out in-depth risk assessments on AI systems, weigh up proposed mitigations against real business objectives, and give clear, honest advice on whether a system is safe and ready for deployment. You’ll also work closely with fellow accreditors as well as with architects, and engineering teams, reviewing artefacts, identifying residual risk, and making sure that assurance is baked into any development right from the start. Day to day, you’ll be embedded in live AI projects, working closely with Information Assurance Security Managers who bridge the gap between business need and security rigour.

In this role, your reach will extend far beyond any single team. You’ll engage regularly with senior leadership on AI risk posture, work across internal networks and partner organisations, and occasionally lend your expertise to overseas partners in an advisory capacity. Your judgement will be sought, your recommendations will carry weight, and your ability to communicate clearly will make a genuine difference to how decisions get made at the highest levels.

With AI capabilities constantly evolving, you’ll be expected to look beyond the horizon, considering emerging risk areas including the long-term implications of quantum computing. This will support you as you shape organisational policy on AI adoption, and contribute to the broader conversation about what responsible AI use looks like at MI6.

Person specification

You’re a natural collaborator, someone who builds relationships easily and communicates with confidence at every level. You'll have a broad and current understanding of AI and how rapidly the landscape has shifted, and you'll be comfortable bringing that knowledge into a unique, complex environment.

Your previous experience spans risk management, security tools and techniques, and the implementation of AI systems and technologies. You'll also have experience developing and delivering effective security controls and countermeasures, backed by broader InfoSec experience gained on large-scale IT projects and programmes.

Qualifications-wise, you'll bring a relevant professional information security credential such as Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) or SANS certifications, alongside a formal AI-related qualification such as the AI Governance Professional (AIGP).

Benefits

You’ll receive a starting salary of £80,875 plus other benefits including:

• 25 Days Annual Leave automatically rising to 30 days after 5 years' service, and an additional 10.5 days public and privilege holidays
• Opportunities to be recognised through our employee performance scheme
• Interest-free season ticket loan
• Excellent pension scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Facilities such as a gym, restaurant and on-site coffee bars (at some locations)
• Paid parental and adoption leave

Things you need to know

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please see our candidate guidance (opens in a new window) for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.

Selection process details

Our recruitment process is fair, transparent, and based on merit. Here is a brief overview of each stage, in order:

1. An initial online application form including pre-screening questions to ensure you meet our eligibility criteria
2. Online Situational Judgement Test (SJT) rating the appropriateness of your responses to a series of short scenarios. The SJT tests criteria important for all roles in our organisation
3. Application sift looking at your skills and motivation for the role and organisation
4. Online HR and Competency Interview
5. In-person interview looking at your technical skills against the DDaT framework
6. If successful you will receive a conditional offer of employment

Please note, you must successfully pass each stage of the process to progress to the next. Your application may take around 6 - 9 months to process including vetting, so we advise you continue any current employment until you have received your final job offer.

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.

Security

Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is developed vetting (opens in a new window).

See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.

Nationality requirements

Open to UK nationals only.

Working for the Civil Service

Please note this Post is NOT regulated by the Civil Service Commission.The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.

Diversity and Inclusion

The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see theCivil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).

Apply and further information

Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.

Contact point for applicants

Job contact :

• Name : The Recruitment Team
• Email : careers@recruitmentoffice.org.uk

Recruitment team

• Email : careers@recruitmentoffice.org.uk

Further information

https://www.sis.gov.uk/careers/