Remote Information Security Lead

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full remote work

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development budget

Medical aid and retirement funds

Diverse team across regions

Access to advanced security tech

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Information Security Lead to guide our cybersecurity strategy in a fully remote capacity within South Africa. You will own security programs, mentor a distributed team, and partner with IT, development, and business units to embed security in all operations.

The role requires a strategic mindset, deep threat landscape knowledge, and strong leadership for a remote-first organization.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in IT, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or related field.
• 8+ years in information security with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Proven experience designing and implementing security programs and controls.
• Knowledge of ISO 27001, NIST and best practices.
• Experience with SIEM, firewalls, EDR and vulnerability management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of the information security strategy and policies.
• Oversee security operations including incident response and threat management.
• Manage security infrastructure (firewalls, SIEM, IDS/IPS, EDR).
• Conduct risk assessments, vulnerability analyses, and penetration tests.
• Ensure compliance with applicable standards and regulations.
• Mentor junior security staff and collaborate across teams.
• Deliver security awareness training and drive threat-informed decisions.
• Engage with vendors and service providers to strengthen defenses.

Skills

Leadership experience

Information security

Cloud security

Incident response

Risk management

Education

Master's degree in IT or related field

Tools

SIEM

Firewalls

EDR

Vulnerability management

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Information Security Lead to join their globally distributed team in a fully remote capacity. This leadership role will be instrumental in guiding the organization's cybersecurity strategy, implementing robust security measures, and managing security operations to protect against sophisticated cyber threats. As a remote-first position, it offers the flexibility to work from anywhere in South Africa. The Information Security Lead will be responsible for overseeing security initiatives, mentoring junior staff, and collaborating with various departments to ensure a strong security posture. We are looking for a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of the current threat landscape and a passion for cybersecurity. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership qualities, excellent technical acumen, and the ability to drive security excellence in a virtual environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of the company's information security strategy and policies.


• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the security team, including incident response and threat management.


• Manage and maintain security infrastructure, including firewalls, SIEM, IDS/IPS, and endpoint security solutions.


• Conduct regular security risk assessments, vulnerability analyses, and penetration tests.


• Ensure the organization's compliance with relevant security standards and regulations.


• Mentor and guide junior security analysts and engineers.


• Collaborate with IT, development, and business teams to integrate security into all aspects of operations.


• Develop and deliver security awareness training programs.


• Stay ahead of emerging threats and vulnerabilities, recommending proactive defense strategies.


• Manage relationships with third-party security vendors and service providers.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or a related field.


• 8+ years of progressive experience in information security, with at least 3 years in a lead or senior supervisory role.


• Proven experience in designing and implementing comprehensive security programs and controls.


• Expert knowledge of cybersecurity principles, frameworks (e.g., ISO 27001, NIST), and best practices.


• Strong experience with security tools such as SIEM, firewalls, EDR, and vulnerability management platforms.


• Excellent understanding of network security, application security, and cloud security (AWS, Azure).


• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, essential for remote team management.


• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.


• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a remote setting.


• Relevant certifications such as CISSP, CISM, or equivalent are highly preferred.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.


• Full remote work arrangement with flexibility in working hours.


• Opportunity to lead a dynamic cybersecurity team and shape security strategy.


• Professional development budget for training and certifications.


• Contribution to medical aid and retirement funds.


• Work with a diverse and talented team across different regions.


• Access to advanced security technologies and a supportive work culture.