Cyber Operations Lead

We are seeking an experienced Cyber Operations Lead for a contract-to-hire (W2 only) position with our Austin, Texas client. This position will lead our client's cybersecurity team, support their clients, and provide technical and strategic cybersecurity guidance. The role requires strong leadership, knowledge of security architecture, operational experience, excellent communication, and presentation skills. The Cyber Operations Lead oversees the organization's cybersecurity operations, ensuring the effective protection of enterprise systems, applications, data, and identities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and mentor the cybersecurity operations team and collaborate with the broader consulting team.
• Serve as a trusted cybersecurity advisor to clients and senior executives.
• Communicate security risks, recommendations, and priorities clearly to technical and executive leaders.
• Develop and review enterprise security architecture and security controls.
• Provide strong technical guidance on Microsoft Azure security architecture.
• Lead Governance Risk and Compliance (GRC) activities based on NIST 800-53 Risk Management Framework.
• Maintain the Cyber Incident Response Plan and coordinate incident response activities.
• Lead vulnerability management, including risk prioritization and remediation tracking.
• Oversee Identity and Access Management (IAM) and provide strong guidance on Active Directory security.
• Lead security monitoring and SIEM operations, including detection and response.
• Drive continuous improvement, automation, and security operational maturity.
• Prepare and deliver client presentations, security assessments, and executive briefings. Key

Qualifications:

• Proven experience leading cybersecurity operations teams.
• Strong knowledge of security architecture and cybersecurity operations.
• Strong understanding of Azure security and cloud security principles.
• Strong Active Directory and IAM knowledge.
• Strong knowledge of NIST 800-53 rev 5 and experience with GRC and Authority to Operate approval process.
• Experience with incident response and security vulnerability management.
• Understanding SIEM, security monitoring, and threat detection.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and client-facing skills.
• Strong executive presence and ability to communicate with senior leadership.
• Ability to work effectively across technical, business, and consulting teams.