University of Manchester appoints Michael Knight as Chief Information Security Officer
The University of Manchester in the UK has appointed Michael Knight as its next Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). He will begin the role in October 2025, joining the Directorate of IT Services and becoming part of the institution’s senior technology leadership team.
Photo credit: University of Manchester
As CISO, Knight will lead the Information Security division and oversee the development of the university’s next cybersecurity program. His remit includes shaping long-term security strategy in line with the Manchester 2035 plan and protecting the university’s digital infrastructure across education, research, and administration.
Knight will also work closely with academic departments, particularly in research, to ensure compliance, enable secure collaboration, and support digital innovation across the institution.
Background in public sector cybersecurity and IT strategy
Knight is currently Chief Information Security Officer at NHS South East London, where he leads cybersecurity and resilience strategy across the region’s health and social care system. Prior to this, he served as Chief Technology Officer at NHS South, Central and West, supporting more than 45,000 staff with managed IT services and information security across southern England.
He is a Fellow of the British Computer Society and a Chartered Healthcare Chief Information Officer.
PJ Hemmaway, Chief Information Officer at the University of Manchester, says, “This is a key appointment for the University as we continue to strengthen our cyber security posture and build digital trust across all areas of our work. With growing reliance on data, digital platforms, and AI, having the right leadership in place is essential. Michael will bring a wealth of experience and insight that will help us innovate responsibly, safeguard our communities, and support the University’s strategic ambitions.”
Knight says, “I'm really excited to be joining an organisation that is recognised globally for its innovation and impact to society – this means a great deal to me personally and professionally. I look forward to working collaboratively across the institution to strengthen our cyber resilience and enable innovation in a secure and trusted way.”
