Chief Information Security Officer

Altron Digital Business; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in South Africa seeks an experienced Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for a short-term contract. The role involves leading the information security program and ensuring a smooth transition of responsibilities. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in information security, with strong leadership skills and relevant certifications. This is a critical role that requires collaboration and effective communication during the handover process.

Qualifications

• 10+ years' experience in information security, with 3–5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Professional certifications such as CISSP, CISM, or equivalent.
• Deep knowledge of security frameworks (ISO, NIST, etc.).

Responsibilities

• Maintain and manage the existing security strategy, policies, and procedures.
• Conduct security risk assessments and manage the risk register.
• Lead incident response efforts and oversee execution of plans.
• Oversee security architecture and operational security tools.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all security-related matters during the transition.

Skills

Information Security

Risk Management

Compliance

Incident Response

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Firewalls

IDS/IPS

SIEM

Job description

WE ARE ADVERTISING THIS ROLE ON BEHALF OF OUR CLIENT. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) – Short‑Term Contract. We are seeking an experienced Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead and manage an established information security program on a short‑term contract basis. The primary objective of this role is to ensure a smooth and comprehensive handover of responsibilities, processes, and institutional knowledge from the outgoing CISO to the incoming permanent security leader.

This is a critical transition role requiring a strategic thinker, strong leader, and skilled communicator who can maintain business continuity while enabling a seamless changeover.

Responsibilities

• Security Strategy & Program Management
  • Maintain and manage the existing security strategy, policies, and procedures.
  • Oversee the information security program to ensure alignment with business objectives and regulatory requirements.
  • Facilitate the complete transfer of security processes, documentation, and relationships.
• Risk Management & Compliance
  • Conduct security risk assessments and manage the risk register.
  • Ensure compliance with standards and regulations (ISO, POPIA, GDPR, etc.).
  • Support internal and external audits.
• Incident Response & Threat Management
  • Lead incident response efforts and oversee execution of plans.
  • Monitor emerging threats and implement proactive defenses.
  • Ensure incident management processes are transitioned effectively.
• Technology & Operations
  • Oversee security architecture and operational security tools.
  • Recommend enhancements to strengthen security posture.
  • Ensure full handover of infrastructure and operational procedures.
• Collaboration & Communication
  • Act as the primary point of contact for all security‑related matters during the transition.
  • Partner with IT and business leaders to integrate security into all operations.
  • Communicate risk, threats, and security updates to senior leadership and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.
• 10+ years' experience in information security, with 3–5 years in a senior leadership role (CISO, Head of Security, etc.).
• Professional certifications such as CISSP, CISM, or equivalent.

Technical Expertise

• Deep knowledge of security frameworks (ISO, NIST, etc.).
• Hands‑on experience with security technologies (firewalls, IDS/IPS, SIEM).
• Skilled in risk assessment and management methodologies.
• Strong understanding of network and cloud security.

Key Competencies

• Strategic, forward‑thinking mindset.
• Proven leadership and team collaboration skills.
• Strong communicator – able to simplify complex security issues for all audiences.
• Analytical, problem‑solving abilities under high‑stakes conditions.
• Demonstrated experience in managing seamless transitions.

Please Note : We are an equal opportunity employer.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.