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# Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) with an Energy Firm – Denver, CO


Role Overview for Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) with an Energy Firm – Denver, CO
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm specializing in technology and cybersecurity leadership, is proud to partner with a forward-thinking and innovative leader in the national energy sector. Our client is a cornerstone of the nation’s critical infrastructure, committed to providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions. They are seeking a visionary and strategic Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to join their executive team in Denver, Colorado. This is a rare opportunity to shape and lead the cybersecurity posture of an organization whose operations are vital to the public well-being and economic stability of the country.
As the CISO, you will be the senior-most executive responsible for the company’s overall information security strategy, execution, and governance. You will operate at the critical intersection of Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT), tasked with safeguarding not only corporate data and systems but also the Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and SCADA networks that manage the generation, transmission, and distribution of energy. The ideal candidate is a battle-tested leader with a deep understanding of the unique threats facing the energy industry, from nation-state actors to sophisticated cybercriminal organizations.
You will be a business enabler, balancing robust security measures with the operational needs of a dynamic and complex organization. This role requires a transformative leader who can build upon an existing foundation, mature the security program to world-class standards, and foster a pervasive culture of security awareness and resilience. You will report directly to the CIO and have significant visibility with the executive leadership team and the Board of Directors, serving as their trusted advisor on all cybersecurity matters.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) with an Energy Firm – Denver, CO
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive, enterprise-wide information security and risk management program that aligns with business objectives and mitigates risk to acceptable levels. Drive the strategic vision for cybersecurity across both IT and OT environments.
Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC)
Establish, manage, and mature a security GRC framework. Ensure and document compliance with all applicable industry and government regulations, including NERC CIP, TSA Pipeline Security Directives, SOX, and data privacy laws. Lead risk assessments, business impact analyses, and the development of risk mitigation strategies.
OT/ICS Security Program Leadership
Serve as the primary authority on the protection of all Operational Technology (OT) and Industrial Control Systems (ICS). Collaborate closely with engineering, plant operations, and physical security teams to design and implement robust security controls for SCADA systems, PLCs, and other critical operational assets, ensuring their safety, reliability, and integrity.
Security Operations & Incident Response
Oversee the 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC) and enhance its capabilities in threat detection, analysis, and response. Develop, mature, and regularly test the corporate incident response plan through tabletop exercises and simulations. Lead the response to significant security incidents from detection through remediation and post-mortem analysis.
Threat Intelligence & Management
Direct the threat intelligence function to proactively identify, analyze, and disseminate information on cyber threats relevant to the energy sector. Use intelligence to inform security strategy, architecture, and defensive measures.
Security Architecture & Engineering
Partner with IT, engineering, and business units to ensure security is embedded into the design and lifecycle of all systems, networks, and applications (Security by Design). Provide guidance on secure configurations, network segmentation, and emerging security technologies.
Data Protection & Privacy
Develop and enforce policies, standards, and controls for data classification, protection, and privacy. Ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive corporate, employee, and customer data.
Third-Party Risk Management (TPRM)
Design and operate a robust program for assessing and managing cybersecurity risks associated with the supply chain, including vendors, suppliers, and partners with access to company networks and data.
Budget & Financial Management
Develop, manage, and justify the annual cybersecurity budget. Ensure cost-effective investments in technology, services, and personnel that provide maximum risk reduction and value to the business.
Executive & Board Communication
Translate complex cybersecurity topics into clear, business-oriented language. Regularly report on the status, risks, and performance of the information security program to the executive leadership team and the Board of Directors.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, mentor, and lead a world-class team of cybersecurity professionals. Foster a collaborative, innovative, and high-performance culture. Champion security awareness training and education initiatives to empower all employees to be a part of the company’s defense.
Requirements for the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) with an Energy Firm – Denver, CO
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in information security, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., CISO, Deputy CISO, Head of Security).
Critical Infrastructure Expertise
Demonstrable, hands-on experience within the energy, utilities, oil & gas, or another critical infrastructure sector is mandatory. A deep and practical understanding of OT/ICS environments and their unique security challenges is essential.
Regulatory & Framework Mastery
In-depth knowledge of relevant regulatory and compliance frameworks such as NERC CIP, TSA regulations, and security best practice standards like the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, ISO 27001/27002, and CIS Controls.
Technical Acumen
A strong technical foundation across the breadth of security domains, including network security, cloud security (Azure/AWS), application security, identity and access management (IAM), cryptography, and endpoint security.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Security, Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is highly preferred.
Professional Certifications
Prestigious security certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), or Global Industrial Cyber Security Professional (GICSP) are strongly desired.
Leadership & Communication Skills
Proven ability to lead, influence, and motivate a diverse team of technical experts. Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate complex security concepts and risks to both technical and non-technical audiences, including board members.
Business Acumen
A strategic mindset with the ability to understand business goals and align security initiatives to support them. Experience managing multi-million dollar budgets and negotiating with vendors is required.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is dedicated to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive executive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a long-term incentive plan (equity/stock options).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your eligible dependents, along with wellness programs and health savings accounts.
Retirement Planning
A generous 401(k) retirement plan featuring a significant and immediate company match to help you secure your financial future.
Work-Life Balance
Ample paid time off (PTO), company holidays, and a commitment to flexible work arrangements that respect your personal and professional life.
Professional Growth
A substantial annual budget for your continuous learning, including professional certifications, executive training, and attendance at leading industry conferences.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive and executive-level relocation package is available for the ideal candidate and their family.
Impactful Work
The unparalleled opportunity to protect critical national infrastructure, work on challenging and meaningful problems, and make a tangible difference in a vital industry.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is leading the exclusive search for this critical Chief Information Security Officer role. If you are a transformative security leader with a proven track record and a passion for protecting critical infrastructure, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your confidential resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and leadership philosophy. For more information on our dedicated expertise in recruiting top-tier technology executives, please visit our Technology & Cybersecurity practice area page. We are committed to a confidential and respectful recruitment process and look forward to reviewing your application.