Role Overview for CISO with a Global Consulting Firm – Washington, DC
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a prestigious global consulting firm in their search for a visionary and strategic Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). Based in the heart of Washington, DC, this executive leadership role is a career-defining opportunity to shape and command the cybersecurity posture of an industry leader. The CISO will be the principal architect of the firm’s security strategy, responsible for safeguarding its intellectual property, client data, and critical infrastructure against an ever-evolving landscape of global threats. In the high-stakes world of global consulting, where data integrity and client trust are paramount, this role is not just a technical function but a critical business enabler.
The successful candidate will be a thought leader with a proven track record of building and leading world-class cybersecurity programs. You will report directly to the Chief Information Officer (CIO) and work closely with the executive leadership team, the Board of Directors, and key stakeholders across the globe to instill a pervasive culture of security. This position demands a unique blend of deep technical expertise, strategic business acumen, and exceptional communication skills. You will be tasked with navigating complex regulatory environments, managing enterprise-wide risk, and driving innovation in security technologies and practices. This is an opportunity to protect and enhance the brand reputation of a firm that advises the world’s most influential organizations, making your impact both significant and far-reaching.
Key Responsibilities of CISO with a Global Consulting Firm – Washington, DC
The CISO will have a broad and challenging mandate, overseeing all aspects of the firm’s information security program. Key responsibilities are multifaceted and require a dynamic approach:
Cybersecurity Strategy and Governance
Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive, long-term information security strategy and roadmap aligned with the firm’s business objectives. Establish and chair a security governance council to ensure clear communication, accountability, and alignment on security initiatives across all business units.
Risk Management and Compliance
Lead the enterprise-wide information security risk management program. Conduct regular risk assessments, vulnerability analyses, and penetration tests to identify and remediate security weaknesses. Ensure the firm’s compliance with all relevant legal, statutory, and contractual obligations, including GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, and client-specific security requirements. You will be the primary liaison for internal and external audits related to information security.
Security Operations and Incident Response
Oversee the 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC), including threat intelligence gathering, continuous monitoring, and security event analysis. Lead the development and maturation of the firm’s incident response capabilities, including playbooks, tabletop exercises, and post-mortem analyses. Serve as the primary leader during major security incidents, coordinating response efforts and communicating with executive leadership.
Technology and Architecture Leadership
Direct the evaluation, selection, and implementation of security technologies and tools. Ensure that the firm’s security architecture is robust, scalable, and resilient. Champion the integration of security into the entire technology lifecycle (DevSecOps) and provide security guidance for all new technology projects, including cloud adoption (AWS, Azure, GCP) and digital transformation initiatives.
Data Protection and Privacy
In collaboration with the Chief Privacy Officer and Legal counsel, develop and enforce policies for data classification, data loss prevention (DLP), and encryption to protect sensitive firm and client data throughout its lifecycle.
Stakeholder Engagement and Communication
Serve as the firm’s leading expert on cybersecurity. Regularly report on the status of the security program, key risks, and strategic initiatives to the executive leadership team and the Board of Directors. Effectively articulate complex security concepts to non-technical audiences to build consensus and drive investment.
Team Leadership and Development
Recruit, lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing, globally distributed team of cybersecurity professionals. Foster a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and excellence within the security organization. Manage the department’s budget, resources, and vendor relationships effectively.
Client Trust and Engagement
Act as a key security representative for major clients and partners. Participate in client meetings, respond to security questionnaires, and articulate the firm’s security posture to build and maintain trust.
Requirements for the CISO with a Global Consulting Firm – Washington, DC
We are seeking a seasoned and credible leader with a distinguished career in cybersecurity. The ideal candidate will possess a comprehensive set of skills and experiences to meet the demands of this critical role:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA or MS in Information Security) 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, Senior Director, or VP of Security) for a large, complex, global organization. Prior experience within a professional services, consulting, or financial services firm is strongly preferred.
Certifications
Professional security management certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), or other similar credentials are required.
Technical Expertise
Demonstrated expertise in developing and implementing security programs based on leading frameworks, such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, ISO 27001/27002, and COBIT. Deep knowledge of network security, cloud security (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), application security, identity and access management (IAM), and modern cryptographic principles.
Leadership and Management Skills
Proven ability to lead and motivate a diverse, global team. Experience managing significant budgets, negotiating with vendors, and building strong relationships across all levels of an organization. A track record of transforming security functions from a reactive cost center to a proactive business partner.
Business Acumen
Strong understanding of business processes and the ability to balance security requirements with the firm’s strategic goals. Experience in presenting to and communicating with C-level executives and boards of directors is essential.
Communication Skills
Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. The ability to convey complex security risks and concepts in a clear, concise, and persuasive manner to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Location
The candidate must be able to work from the Washington, DC office in a hybrid capacity. Some international travel may be required.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional and personal well-being. As a key member of the executive team, you can expect:
Competitive Compensation
An attractive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and long-term incentive/equity potential.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents. Access to wellness programs, mental health resources, and a fitness stipend.
Retirement Planning
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match and profit-sharing contributions.
Generous Paid Time Off
A competitive paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and numerous paid holidays.
Professional Development
A significant budget for continuous learning, including industry conferences, certifications, and executive education programs.
Work-Life Balance
A commitment to a healthy work-life balance with flexible work arrangements.
Additional Perks
Commuter benefits, parental leave, life and disability insurance, and other executive-level perquisites.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative cybersecurity leader ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role at a top-tier global firm, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this pivotal position, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and leadership philosophy. JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment, and you can learn more about our expertise by visiting the practice area page for our Technology & Security Executive Search practice. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.
