Chief Information Security Officer

Pennsylvania State University, a R1 Public Higher Education institution seeks a dynamic Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to spearhead the information security department in Penn State IT. This role is pivotal within Penn State, offering an invigorating opportunity for an accomplished leader. The CISO will provide strategic direction and vision, overseeing a comprehensive university-wide information security program. In this role, you will collaboratively engage with university leadership, faculty, and staff to ensure information security programs align with Penn State's goals and strategic plan while addressing risks and compliance obligations in its information-rich environment.

The role reports to the CIO/Vice President of Information Technology and is based out of the University Park campus in beautiful central Pennsylvania. The CISO will lead the Information Security department and have oversight related to information security, which includes financial and budgetary responsibilities. The CSIO will serve as a member of the IT Senior leadership team and play a pivotal role in the development of staff and assist in fostering an environment where every employee is valued and respected.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop and implement university-wide information security programs, aligning with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Assess data compliance with international, federal, and state security laws and regulations.
• Oversee research cybersecurity for regulated and controlled data.
• Lead and manage a diverse security organization, including hiring, training, coaching, and performance reviews.
• Establish risk identification and incident response processes, ensuring timely resolution of security incidents.
• Provide periodic reporting on the information security program to university leadership and external stakeholders.
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution in a related technical, audit, law, or security field, combined with extensive business experience.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in evolving information security technologies, policy, and administration.
• 3+ years of experience in a senior leadership role, with demonstrated management and budget oversight.
• Broad knowledge of IT security issues, trends, and regulatory requirements.
• A strategic thinker with exceptional planning skills, an excellent communicator, and a collaborator with demonstrated diplomacy in influencing a wide variety of stakeholders.
• Proven track record of developing and executing information security policies and programs in a dynamic environment.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in a related technical, audit, law, or security field
• Understanding of academic institutions and their missions, with a preference for previous experience in higher education.
• Familiarity with academic research environments and the unique challenges of protecting sensitive and regulated data.
• Professional security management certification, such as a Certified Information Systems Security. Professional (CISSP).
  
  

The budgeted salary for the position is $200,000 to $260,000.

Final candidate(s) for the position will be required to complete a full background check process including criminal, credit, education, employment, and motor vehicle records check, as appropriate.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion inall ofits forms.We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusive excellence that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusive excellence as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

Campus Security Crime Statistics

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814- 865-1473

Employment Type: Full Time

Years Experience: 10 - 15 years

Salary: $200,000 - $260,000 Annual

Bonus/Commission: No