Remote Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 2,991,000 - 4,653,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive package

Remote role

Health insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Chief Information Security Officer to lead our global security strategy in a fully remote executive role. You will shape and implement a comprehensive information security program that protects company assets, customer data, and intellectual property across distributed operations.

You will build a world-class security team, drive risk management, incident response, and compliance (NIST, ISO 27001; GDPR/CCPA), and advise the board on cybersecurity investments.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 10–15 years of progressive experience in information security, with at least 5–7 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., CISO, VP of Security, Director of Security).
• Proven experience building cybersecurity programs in fast-growing, distributed organizations.
• Extensive knowledge of cybersecurity principles, frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001), and regulatory requirements globally.
• Demonstrated expertise in cloud security (AWS, Azure, GCP), application security, data privacy, and threat intelligence.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience managing security for remote and hybrid workforces is essential.
• Must possess CISSP, CISM, or equivalent top-tier certifications.

Responsibilities

• Develop and own the company's information security strategy and vision.
• Establish and manage a robust cybersecurity program covering risk management, compliance, incident response, and security operations.
• Oversee the selection, implementation, and management of security technologies for a remote-first organization.
• Build and lead a globally distributed security team.
• Ensure compliance with GDPR, CCPA, and other standards across jurisdictions.
• Develop and execute incident response plans and business continuity strategies.
• Foster a security-aware culture through training and communications initiatives.
• Advise the executive leadership team and board on cybersecurity risks, strategies, and investments.
• Manage the information security budget and vendor relationships.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Threat intelligence

Cloud security

Regulatory compliance

Education

Master's degree

Tools

AWS

Azure

GCP

ISO 27001

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding international tech startup, is seeking an experienced and visionary Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead their global security strategy. This is a fully remote, executive-level position, offering the opportunity to build and shape the security function from the ground up. You will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive information security program that protects company assets, customer data, and intellectual property across all operational domains. The ideal candidate will possess a strong leadership profile, a deep understanding of cybersecurity best practices, and the ability to operate effectively in a distributed, fast-paced environment. Your mission will be to establish and maintain a world-class security posture.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and own the company's overall information security strategy and vision.
• Establish and manage a robust cybersecurity program covering risk management, compliance, incident response, and security operations.
• Oversee the selection, implementation, and management of security technologies and tools suitable for a remote-first organization.
• Build and lead a high-performing, globally distributed security team.
• Ensure compliance with relevant data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) and industry standards across all jurisdictions.
• Develop and execute comprehensive incident response plans and business continuity strategies.
• Foster a security-aware culture throughout the organization via training and communication initiatives.
• Advise the executive leadership team and board of directors on cybersecurity risks, strategies, and investments.
• Manage the information security budget and vendor relationships effectively.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 10-15 years of progressive experience in information security, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., CISO, VP of Security, Director of Security).
• Proven experience building and leading cybersecurity programs in fast-growing, distributed organizations.
• Extensive knowledge of cybersecurity principles, frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001), and regulatory requirements globally.
• Demonstrated expertise in cloud security (AWS, Azure, GCP), application security, data privacy, and threat intelligence.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience managing security for remote and hybrid workforces is essential.
• Must possess CISSP, CISM, or equivalent top-tier certifications.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation package, including a significant base salary, equity options, and performance-based bonuses.
• As a fully remote role, you will enjoy unparalleled flexibility and autonomy.
• We provide a comprehensive benefits package, including top-tier health insurance and a generous allowance for professional development and home office setup.
• Join an innovative and fast-paced startup where you can make a profound impact on its security trajectory from anywhere in the world.