My six months as a BBC information security policy officer

I joined the BBC information security department nearly six months ago as their information security policy officer. It’s my job to write information security policies, standards and guidelines which are used by the whole of the BBC.

It is also part of my job to maintain and enhance the information security policy framework, make recommendations where policy gaps are identified and ensure that security policies and associated documents are kept up to date and regularly reviewed.

The BBC is truly a fascinating place to work, where every day presents me with a fresh challenge. As the world’s largest broadcaster, it is important to keep expanding its digital services and constantly find new, innovative ways to entertain audiences. The role of the information security department has never been more important.

The BBC feels like an excellent place for an aspiring information security professional or anyone to thrive. With an extremely talented team, support is plentiful and opportunities to get involved in other areas of work are very common.

Despite being such a large organisation, I think communication is robust and the internal communications to staff are frequent, helping create a sense of familiarity with other initiatives and upcoming changes. This is invaluable when working in information security. Understanding the BBC, its values and its goals are instrumental to applying information security principles in a balanced and appropriate way that works for everyone.

I think that the dynamic nature of the BBC makes it a great place to gain and apply your skills. I'll never get tired of bumping into Craig Charles in the lift or watching Daleks from Doctor Who being unloaded from a truck in the court yard.