CE+ Lead Assessor
Wayne is a qualified CE+ Lead Assessor, working through trusted Certification Body (CB) partners to deliver formal Cyber Essentials Plus assessments. This includes sign-off authority, DCC Level 0 capability, and the ability to operate across multiple CBs — providing independence and flexibility for organisations at any stage of their CE+ journey.
What a CE+ Lead Assessor Does
A CE+ Lead Assessor is the qualified individual who formally reviews evidence during a Cyber Essentials Plus assessment and makes the certification determination. This is a distinct and formal role within the NCSC-backed scheme, requiring specific accreditation and operating under the governance of a Certification Body.
It is important to distinguish this from advisory work: as a Lead Assessor, Wayne makes binding certification decisions. As an adviser, Wayne provides guidance and readiness support. Both services are available, and can be combined — with appropriate independence maintained throughout.
What This Service Covers
- Full CE+ Assessment: Conducted by Wayne as Lead Assessor through our CB partners, covering all five technical controls and the full verification process
- DCC Level 0: Wayne is qualified to conduct DCC Level 0 CE+ assessments, supporting MOD supply chain requirements and other contractually mandated DCC assessments
- Multi-CB Flexibility: We work with more than one CB, enabling organisations to select a CB that meets their procurement or procurement rules, and ensuring genuine independence in the assessment process
- Remote Verification: CE+ assessments are conducted via structured remote sessions, with Wayne reviewing live evidence from your devices and systems in a controlled and consistent manner
- IASME Governance: Where required, IASME Governance assessment can be completed alongside CE+ under the same engagement
- Certificate Issuance: Upon successful assessment, the certificate is issued by the CB in accordance with scheme rules
Credentials That Underpin This Service
CE+ Lead Assessor
Formally qualified CE+ Lead Assessor, accredited through the IASME-administered Cyber Essentials scheme. Authorised to sign off CE+ certificates via CB partners.
PCSP & CISSP
Professional Standards qualification (PCSP) and CISSP — the gold standard security credential — underpin the depth of technical judgement applied during CE+ assessments. Not all Lead Assessors hold these credentials.
CITP Chartered
Chartered IT Professional status through BCS, reflecting long-standing commitment to professional standards and independent, ethical practice.
IASME Governance Assessor
Qualified to assess the IASME Governance standard alongside CE+, providing a combined assurance package where required.
Who Uses This Service
Defence Supply Chain
Organisations contractually required to hold CE+ as a condition of MOD or wider defence supply chain participation. DCC Level 0 assessments available where specified.
SMBs & Mid-Market
Organisations pursuing CE+ to satisfy customer requirements, tender criteria, insurance conditions, or as a foundation for broader compliance obligations such as DORA or sector-specific frameworks.
Annual Renewals
CE+ is annual. Organisations who have previously certified and are returning for renewal, including those who have experienced infrastructure or ownership changes since last assessment.
First-Time Applicants
Organisations coming to CE+ for the first time, who may also benefit from advisory support prior to formal assessment to ensure readiness and minimise re-assessment risk.
Advisory vs Lead Assessor: What’s the Difference?
This is a question worth answering clearly:
💬 CE/CE+ Advisory
- Gap assessment against the CE question set
- Technical remediation guidance ahead of assessment
- Evidence preparation and scope/boundary review
- No certificate issued — this is preparatory work only
- Can be done before a formal assessment with any assessor/CB
⭐ CE+ Lead Assessor (Formal)
- Formal assessment delivered through a CB
- Wayne acts as Lead Assessor and makes the certification determination
- Certificate issued by the CB on successful outcome
- DCC Level 0 capable where required
- Advisory and Lead Assessor roles are kept separate for independence
Arrange a CE+ Assessment
Contact us to discuss your CE+ assessment requirements, including DCC Level 0 needs, scope, timescales, and which CB partner would best suit your situation.