Head of Information Security (CISO)

Placements24; Southampton; Remote; GBP 150,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an accomplished Head of Information Security (CISO) to define and drive the company’s global security strategy in a remote-first environment. You will safeguard digital assets, ensure regulatory compliance, and foster a security culture across all departments.

The ideal candidate has 15+ years in information security with at least 7 in senior leadership, deep experience with risk management, incident response, and cloud security, and holds CISSP/CISM/CISO certifications.

Qualifications

• 15+ years in information security with 7+ in senior leadership roles
• Master's degree in Cybersecurity, IT, or related field
• Proven success in developing and executing enterprise-wide security strategies
• Deep understanding of cybersecurity frameworks and regulatory compliance
• Experience with cloud security architectures and secure SDLC
• CISSP/CISM/CISO certification or equivalent
• Experience leading remote or distributed teams

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive information security strategy aligned with business objectives
• Oversee information security operations including risk management, threat intelligence, incident response, and vulnerability management
• Ensure compliance with GDPR, POPIA, and other data protection regulations across regions
• Build and lead a high-performing distributed information security team
• Establish strong relationships with executive leadership, board and stakeholders
• Champion a proactive security culture through education and awareness programs
• Manage information security budget and vendor relationships
• Lead major security incidents and crisis management
• Stay updated on evolving threat landscape and best practices
• Represent the organization on external cybersecurity matters

Skills

Strategic leadership

Information security governance

Risk management

Incident response

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Cloud security (AWS/Azure/GCP)

Secure SDLC

CISSP/CISM/CISO cert

Remote team leadership

Education

Master's degree in Cybersecurity/IT/related field

Tools

NIST Cybersecurity Framework

ISO 27001

Cloud security platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP)

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished and visionary leader to serve as their Head of Information Security (Chief Information Security Officer - CISO). This is a critical executive-level, fully remote position responsible for establishing and executing the company's overall information security strategy. You will be entrusted with safeguarding the organization's digital assets, ensuring compliance with global regulations, and fostering a robust security culture across all departments. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in strategic security leadership, risk management, incident response, and regulatory compliance within a fast-paced, technology-driven environment. This is a unique opportunity to lead a global cybersecurity program from a remote-first perspective, influencing the strategic direction of security for a dynamic organization. We seek a leader who can inspire confidence and drive excellence in all aspects of information security.

Key Responsibilities

• Developing and implementing a comprehensive, forward-thinking information security strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Overseeing all aspects of information security operations, including risk management, threat intelligence, incident response, and vulnerability management.
• Ensuring compliance with all relevant national and international data protection laws and regulations (e.g., GDPR, POPIA).
• Building and leading a high-performing, distributed information security team.
• Establishing and maintaining strong relationships with executive leadership, board members, and key stakeholders.
• Championing a proactive security culture throughout the organization via education and awareness programs.
• Managing the information security budget and vendor relationships effectively.
• Leading the organization's response to significant security incidents.
• Staying abreast of the evolving threat landscape, emerging technologies, and best practices in cybersecurity.
• Representing the organization on cybersecurity matters externally.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in information security, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., CISO, VP of Security, Director of Security).
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing enterprise-wide security strategies.
• Deep understanding of cybersecurity frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001, etc.), risk management principles, and regulatory compliance.
• Proven experience in managing complex security operations, incident response, and crisis management.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills.
• Experience with cloud security architectures (AWS, Azure, GCP) and secure software development lifecycles.
• Hold relevant advanced certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CISO certification, or equivalent.
• Experience leading remote or globally distributed teams is essential.
• Ability to thrive in a fully remote work environment.

Benefits

Our client offers an executive-level compensation package including a highly competitive base salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive remote work benefits, significant opportunities for professional development, and the chance to shape the security future of a growing organization. This is a remote-first position offering flexibility and autonomy. Join us as our CISO and lead our cybersecurity efforts with strategic vision and executive leadership, regardless of your physical location.