Role Overview for CISO with a Public Technology Hardware Co. – San Jose, CA

JRG Partners is proud to partner with a globally recognized, publicly traded technology hardware company based in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose, CA. We are seeking a visionary and strategic Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead their global security program. This is a paramount executive leadership role responsible for establishing and maintaining a comprehensive, enterprise-wide information security and risk management program to ensure that information assets and associated technology, applications, systems, infrastructure, and processes are adequately protected.

Our client is a leader in designing and manufacturing cutting-edge hardware solutions that power industries from consumer electronics to enterprise data centers. As a public company, they operate under rigorous scrutiny and compliance requirements. The CISO will be the principal security advisor to the executive leadership team and the Board of Directors, playing a critical role in shaping the company’s security posture, protecting intellectual property, securing the global supply chain, and safeguarding customer trust.

You will be at the forefront of protecting not only corporate IT infrastructure but also the integrity of the physical products that are the lifeblood of the business. This position demands a leader who can balance the demands of robust security with the fast-paced innovation that defines the technology hardware sector. You will be tasked with building upon the existing security foundation, maturing processes, fostering a culture of security awareness, and preparing the organization to face the evolving threat landscape of tomorrow.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned security executive with a proven track record of success in a complex, global environment, preferably within the hardware, manufacturing, or semiconductor industry. You must possess deep technical expertise combined with exceptional business acumen and the ability to communicate complex security concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on a market-leading company and define the future of its security strategy.

Key Responsibilities of CISO with a Public Technology Hardware Co. – San Jose, CA

Strategic Leadership & Vision

Develop, implement, and monitor a strategic, comprehensive enterprise information security and IT risk management program. Articulate a clear security vision and strategy that aligns with business objectives and communicate it effectively across the organization.

Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)

Establish and lead the enterprise security governance function. Develop, publish, and maintain corporate security policies, standards, and guidelines. Oversee the continuous identification, assessment, and mitigation of security risks across the enterprise. Ensure compliance with all applicable legal, regulatory, and contractual requirements, including SOX, GDPR, CCPA, and industry-specific standards.

Security Operations & Incident Response

Lead the Security Operations Center (SOC) and oversee 24/7 monitoring, threat detection, and analysis. Develop and mature the company’s incident response capabilities, including planning, tabletop exercises, and post-incident analysis. Act as the primary leader during major security incidents.

Product & Hardware Security

Partner closely with Engineering and Product Development teams to integrate security into the entire product lifecycle (Secure SDLC). Champion security for embedded systems, firmware, and hardware components. Develop and manage a robust supply chain security program to mitigate risks associated with third-party components and manufacturing partners.

Architecture & Engineering

Direct the design, implementation, and maintenance of security architecture and infrastructure. Ensure the security of cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP), on-premise data centers, corporate networks, and endpoint devices. Drive the adoption of new security technologies and solutions to counter emerging threats.

Threat Intelligence & Vulnerability Management

Establish a proactive threat intelligence program to anticipate and prepare for emerging cyber threats. Oversee a comprehensive vulnerability management program, including regular scanning, penetration testing, and remediation tracking.

Team Development & Mentorship

Build, lead, and mentor a world-class global information security team. Foster a culture of continuous learning, collaboration, and excellence. Manage departmental budgets, resource allocation, and vendor relationships.

Executive & Board Communication

Serve as the primary security expert for the executive team and the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. Prepare and deliver regular reports and presentations on the state of the security program, risk posture, and emerging threats in a clear, business-oriented manner.

Security Awareness & Culture

Champion a culture of security awareness throughout the organization. Develop and implement effective security training and awareness programs for all employees, contractors, and partners to reduce human-centric risk.

Requirements for the CISO with a Public Technology Hardware Co. – San Jose, CA

Experience

A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in information security, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., Director, VP of Security, CISO) for a global organization. Direct experience working for a publicly traded company is mandatory. Experience in the technology hardware, semiconductor, or manufacturing industry is strongly preferred.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Security, Engineering, or a related field. A Master’s degree (e.g., MBA, MS in Cybersecurity) is highly desirable.

Certifications

Professional security management certifications such as CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CISM (Certified Information Security Manager), CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor), or equivalent are strongly preferred.

Technical Expertise

Deep and current knowledge of security domains including risk management, security architecture, incident response, product security, and GRC. Extensive experience with security frameworks and standards such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, ISO 27001/27002, and COBIT.

Leadership Skills

Proven ability to lead and motivate a diverse, global team of security professionals. Demonstrated experience in developing security strategy, managing budgets, and aligning security initiatives with business goals.

Communication & Influence

Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. Must have the ability to articulate complex technical and risk-related topics to a wide range of audiences, from engineers to the Board of Directors. Proven ability to build relationships and influence change across a matrixed organization.

Business Acumen

Strong understanding of business principles and the ability to balance security needs with the company’s strategic objectives, financial constraints, and operational realities. Experience managing security through mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures is a plus.

Location

Ability to work on-site or in a hybrid model at the company’s headquarters in San Jose, CA.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client offers a competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This includes:

• Highly competitive base salary and executive bonus program.
• Substantial equity package (Restricted Stock Units – RSUs) with a vesting schedule.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents.
• Generous 401(k) retirement plan with a strong company match.
• Flexible and generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, plus company-paid holidays.
• Significant budget for professional development, including conferences, training, and certifications.
• Access to state-of-the-art office facilities and on-site amenities in San Jose.
• Employee stock purchase plan (ESPP).
• Relocation assistance package available for qualified candidates.

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 technology powerhouse, 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 in the role.

Qualified candidates can apply by reaching out directly to our team through the JRG Partners’ Technology Executive Search practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this exciting role in more detail.