Intelligence agency opens recruitment for three non-executive directors – but potential candidates are advised to only talk to their immediate family about applications and that appointments will not be publicly revealed

GCHQ is seeking to bring in tech expertise via the recruitment of three new non-executive directors who, if appointed, will serve the intelligence agency without anyone outside of their immediate family ever knowing they have done so.

The UK’s specialist signals intelligence organisation is seeking to hear from people interested in joining its boardroom set-up in one of three designated roles – including a post as the lead non-executive director and key “strategic advisor… [on] future direction”.

Also being recruited is a dedicated technology and digital lead to serve GCHQ – which also houses the National Cyber Security Centre – in a non-executive capacity.

The job advert advises potential applicants for that role: “Bringing recent and extensive experience of technological innovation, you’ll help us navigate an ever-changing digital landscape and ever-evolving threats. You’ll bring independent oversight and counsel to the board, so we’re primed for advanced services and future-proofing processes at scale.”

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The third and final boardroom slot up for grabs is a post as audit and risk lead, which comes with a remit to help GCHQ “ensure we operate within the risk appetite and risk management framework agreed, providing the independent view on related matters”.

Anyone interested in applying for any of the three roles has until 11.55pm to send an email to the agency’s recruitment team to find out more and arrange “a confidential discussion”.

“Your discretion is vital,” the job advert adds. “Please limit the number of people you talk to about any of these roles to your immediate family and/or partner. Successful candidates will not normally be able to disclose that they are a non-executive director for GCHQ.”

Each of the positions will require about 20 days work each year, in return for compensation of £1,000.

Applications are limited to UK citizens – including those who hold dual nationality – who have resided in this country for at least seven of the last ten years. Those who have held government jobs overseas or have been posted abroad with the Armed Forces will also be considered.

Before their appointment is confirmed, candidates will need to successfully negotiate a developed vetting process – which will then provide them with the highest level of security clearance.