Role Overview for CISO with a Global Insurer – Hartford, CT
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier global insurance provider in their search for a visionary and strategic Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). Based in their corporate headquarters in Hartford, CT, this executive will be the foremost authority on information security, responsible for establishing and maintaining a corporate-wide information security management program to ensure that information assets are adequately protected. This is a highly visible leadership role that requires a deep understanding of the complex cyber threat landscape, coupled with the business acumen to align security initiatives with the strategic goals of a multinational insurance organization.
The CISO will report directly to the Chief Information Officer (CIO) and will serve as a key advisor to the executive leadership team and the Board of Directors on all matters related to cybersecurity. You will be tasked with protecting the company’s sensitive data, intellectual property, and critical infrastructure from an ever-evolving array of cyber threats. This includes safeguarding customer data, policy information, financial records, and proprietary business processes.
The ideal candidate is a proactive leader who can build a culture of security awareness, drive innovation in security technologies and processes, and navigate the intricate regulatory environment of the global insurance industry. You will lead a dedicated team of security professionals, manage a significant budget, and oversee a comprehensive security portfolio that includes governance, risk, compliance, security operations, incident response, and identity and access management. Your leadership will be pivotal in fostering trust with clients, partners, and regulators, solidifying the company’s reputation as a secure and resilient industry leader.
Key Responsibilities of CISO with a Global Insurer – Hartford, CT
The Chief Information Security Officer will have a broad range of responsibilities, encompassing strategic leadership, operational excellence, and robust governance. Success in this role will be measured by the ability to effectively manage risk and enable the business to operate securely and efficiently.
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop, implement, and communicate a comprehensive, long-term information security strategy and roadmap that aligns with the company’s business objectives and risk tolerance. Champion security initiatives across the organization, securing buy-in from senior executives and stakeholders.
Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC)
Establish and maintain a robust information security governance framework. Develop and enforce security policies, standards, and procedures. Oversee enterprise-wide security risk assessments, identify vulnerabilities, and manage the risk register. Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations, including NYDFS, GDPR, CCPA, and other international and domestic insurance industry mandates.
Security Operations & Threat Management
Lead the Security Operations Center (SOC) to provide 24/7 monitoring, detection, and analysis of security events. Oversee threat intelligence gathering, vulnerability management programs, penetration testing, and red team exercises to proactively identify and mitigate threats.
Incident Response & Crisis Management
Own and mature the corporate incident response plan. Lead the response to any security breaches or cyberattacks, coordinating efforts across IT, legal, communications, and business units to minimize impact, manage forensics, and ensure timely recovery.
Data Protection & Privacy
Collaborate closely with the Chief Privacy Officer and Legal Counsel to ensure that data protection and privacy controls are embedded into all business processes and systems, safeguarding sensitive personal and corporate information.
Identity and Access Management (IAM)
Oversee the strategy and execution of the IAM program, ensuring secure and appropriate access to systems and data for employees, contractors, and partners through robust authentication and authorization mechanisms.
Application & Cloud Security
Integrate security into the software development lifecycle (DevSecOps). Develop and implement a comprehensive cloud security strategy for IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS environments (e.g., AWS, Azure), ensuring secure configuration and data protection in the cloud.
Third-Party Risk Management
Develop and manage a program to assess and mitigate the cybersecurity risks associated with third-party vendors, suppliers, and partners.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, train, mentor, and lead a world-class team of information security professionals. Foster a collaborative and innovative culture, promoting continuous learning and professional growth within the team.
Budget & Financial Management
Develop, manage, and report on the annual information security budget. Make strategic investment decisions for security technologies, services, and personnel to optimize the security posture and deliver value.
Executive & Board Reporting
Prepare and present regular, clear, and concise reports to the executive leadership team and the Board of Directors on the state of the company’s security posture, risk levels, and strategic initiatives.
Requirements for the CISO with a Global Insurer – Hartford, CT
We are seeking a seasoned and credentialed leader with a proven track record of success in managing cybersecurity programs for large, complex, and regulated organizations. The qualifications for this role are as follows:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Security, Information Technology, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA or MS) is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in information security and IT risk management, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., Director, VP of Security, or CISO).
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable experience within the financial services or insurance industry is mandatory. A deep understanding of the unique security challenges and regulatory requirements of this sector is essential.
Technical Acumen
Extensive knowledge of security technologies and concepts, including network security, endpoint protection, SIEM, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), cloud security architecture, data loss prevention (DLP), and encryption.
Framework & Regulatory Knowledge
Deep expertise in security and risk management frameworks. A strong command of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, ISO 27001/27002, and COBIT is required. Verifiable experience navigating complex regulatory landscapes (e.g., NYDFS Part 500, GDPR, GLBA).
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership and team-building skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and manage a diverse, global team. Proven ability to act as a business enabler, not just a control function.
Communication & Influence
Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to articulate complex security concepts and risks to both technical and non-technical audiences, including board members and C-level executives.
Strategic Thinking
Strong strategic planning and execution skills, with the ability to think critically and solve complex problems. A forward-thinking mindset to anticipate future threats and trends.
Certifications
Professional security management certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), or equivalent are strongly desired.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This includes:
Competitive Base Salary
An attractive six-figure base salary commensurate with experience and market standards.
Executive Bonus Program
A significant annual performance-based bonus opportunity.
Long-Term Incentives
Participation in the company’s equity or long-term incentive plan (e.g., stock options, RSUs).
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
Paid Time Off
A generous vacation, holiday, and sick leave policy.
Professional Development
A substantial budget for conferences, training, certifications, and continuing education to keep you at the forefront of the industry.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate.
Wellness Programs
Access to employee wellness initiatives, gym memberships, and mental health resources.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative security leader ready to take on the challenge of protecting a global financial institution, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest.
For more information on our expertise in this area or to explore other executive opportunities, please visit our Technology Officers practice area. We look forward to connecting with you.
