Chief Information Security Officer (R2887)

$178,000 - $315,000/Yr

Shield Ai - Campbell, CA

Full-time - Senior

Campbell, CA

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

As the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Shield AI, you will be at the forefront of our cybersecurity efforts, leading a high-performing team dedicated to protecting our critical assets and aligning security initiatives with our business goals. This role requires a visionary leader who can blend strategic oversight with hands-on technical expertise to foster a security-first culture throughout the organization. You will be responsible for developing and enforcing comprehensive cybersecurity policies, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Your leadership will be crucial in overseeing incident response and recovery efforts, ensuring that our operations can swiftly recover from any security incidents with minimal impact. In this position, you will also be tasked with developing a robust cybersecurity strategy that evolves with the changing threat landscape. You will lead the operations of our Internal Security Operations Center (SOC), ensuring it operates efficiently to monitor, detect, and respond to security incidents in real time. Regular communication with executives and senior management will be essential, as you will provide updates on the state of cybersecurity and offer guidance on new initiatives and potential risks. Additionally, you will oversee the design and implementation of a security architecture that supports Shield AI's growth while protecting sensitive information. Your role will also involve cultivating a culture of cybersecurity awareness across the organization through comprehensive training programs. You will manage vendor and third-party risk, ensuring that all partners meet our stringent security standards. As a mentor, you will develop the next generation of cybersecurity leaders, ensuring a strong leadership pipeline for the future. This position is critical in fortifying our defenses and ensuring the safety and security of our organization.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a high-performing cybersecurity and information security team, aligning their efforts with Shield AI's overall strategic objectives.
• Develop, implement, and enforce comprehensive cybersecurity policies that protect the company's assets, data, and intellectual property at all levels of classification.
• Conduct thorough risk assessments, develop and implement mitigation strategies, and ensure compliance with regulatory and legal standards.
• Oversee the monitoring, management, and resolution of security incidents, ensuring swift recovery and minimal impact on operations.
• Develop, execute, and continuously refine a cybersecurity strategy that protects Shield AI's infrastructure and assets from evolving cyber threats.
• Lead the operations of the Internal SOC, ensuring it operates at peak efficiency to monitor, detect, and respond to security incidents in real time.
• Ensure that Shield AI's cybersecurity practices comply with relevant regulations and standards, such as CMMC, NIST 800-171/53, and ITAR, and lead efforts to maintain these standards.
• Regularly brief executives and senior management on the state of cybersecurity within the organization and provide expert guidance on new security initiatives and potential risks.
• Oversee the development and implementation of a robust security architecture that supports Shield AI's growth and protects its sensitive information.
• Implement a comprehensive cybersecurity training and awareness program to cultivate a security-first culture across all levels of the organization.
• Manage and evaluate the cybersecurity practices of third-party vendors to ensure they meet Shield AI's security standards.
• Foster a cybersecurity culture that aligns with Shield AI's mission-driven and values-focused environment, ensuring that security is embedded in every aspect of the organization.
• Mentor and develop the next generation of cybersecurity leaders within Shield AI, ensuring a strong leadership pipeline for the future.

Requirements

• B.S. in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Professional certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CISA, or GIAC (e.g., GSEC, GCIH, GCFA) are required.
• Proven experience in leading and managing cybersecurity teams, with the ability to align security initiatives with broader business goals.
• Strong foundational knowledge in cybersecurity principles, practices, and technologies, with hands-on experience in implementing and managing security frameworks in complex environments.
• Deep understanding of compliance regulations and frameworks, including CMMC, NIST 800-171, NIST 800-53, and ITAR.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting risk assessments, implementing risk mitigation strategies, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a proactive approach to identifying and addressing security challenges.
• Proven experience in managing cybersecurity incidents, ensuring swift and effective resolution while minimizing impact on business operations.
• Exceptional communication skills, capable of articulating complex security concepts to diverse audiences, including senior leadership and non-technical stakeholders.

Nice-to-haves

• 15+ years in cybersecurity and information security, with at least 8+ years in leadership roles, preferably in high-growth or highly regulated environments.
• Possession of advanced certifications such as CISM, CISSP, or specialized GIAC certifications (e.g., GCFA, GNFA) is highly desirable.
• A master's degree or higher in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience in implementing and assessing U.S. defense contracting information security requirements, including CMMC, NIST standards, and ITAR.
• Ability to connect cybersecurity strategies to business objectives and develop long-term plans and goals for information security.
• Experience building and scaling cybersecurity programs in organizations facing high-threat environments or operating under strict regulatory frameworks.
• In-depth knowledge of current and emerging cybersecurity technologies, trends, and best practices, including experience with advanced security tools and frameworks.
• Demonstrated ability to foster a security-first culture that aligns with the mission-driven and values-focused environment of Shield AI.
• Proven experience in mentoring and developing cybersecurity professionals, ensuring a strong leadership pipeline for the future.

Benefits

• Competitive salary ranging from $178,000 to $315,000 annually.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Professional development opportunities and training programs.
• Flexible work hours and remote work options.
• Paid time off and holidays.