Chief Information Security Officer; CISO; Remote First

Our client is seeking a visionary and strategic Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead their security initiatives within a remote-first organizational structure. This executive-level role is responsible for establishing and executing a comprehensive information security strategy that aligns with business objectives and mitigates enterprise-wide risks. The CISO will oversee all aspects of information security, including governance, risk management, compliance, incident response, and security operations, driving a robust security culture across the entire organization.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned security leader to shape the future of cybersecurity for a dynamic company, working remotely with influence over operations that may touch areas like Upington, Northern Cape . The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in executive security leadership, a deep understanding of global security trends, and the ability to inspire and guide a distributed security team.

• Develop, implement, and maintain a holistic information security strategy and program that protects the organization's assets, data, and systems.
• Establish and enforce information security policies, standards, and procedures across the organization.
• Oversee the implementation and management of security controls, technologies, and processes.
• Lead and manage the information security team, fostering a culture of security excellence and continuous improvement.
• Develop and manage the information security budget, ensuring cost-effective allocation of resources.
• Oversee the incident response program, ensuring timely and effective containment, eradication, and recovery from security breaches.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards (e.g., GDPR, POPIA, ISO 27001).
• Develop and execute a comprehensive risk management program, identifying, assessing, and mitigating security risks.
• Build strong relationships with executive leadership, board members, and other stakeholders to ensure security alignment and awareness.
• Stay abreast of emerging threats, vulnerabilities, and security technologies, and advise the organization on strategic security investments.
• Represent the organization on security matters with external parties, including regulators and partners.

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in information security leadership roles, with at least 5 years in a CISO or equivalent senior security management position.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful enterprise-wide information security programs.
• In-depth knowledge of security governance, risk management, compliance (GRC), cybersecurity frameworks, and incident response.
• Experience managing security operations, threat intelligence, and vulnerability management functions.
• Strong understanding of cloud security (AWS, Azure, GCP), network security, application security, and data protection.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, strategic thinking, and executive presence.
• Experience managing budgets and leading teams, especially in a remote or distributed environment.
• Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear business impacts and strategic recommendations.
• Relevant senior-level certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CISO certification, or equivalent.

• Executive-level compensation package, including base salary, bonuses, and equity.
• Comprehensive executive health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits.
• Significant allowance for professional development, training, and executive coaching.
• Flexibility of a remote-first work environment with significant autonomy.
• Opportunity to lead and shape the cybersecurity strategy of a growing organization.
• Influence and impact the security posture across all operational domains, including those conceptually linked to Upington, Northern Cape .
• Work with a high-performing, motivated, and globally distributed security team.