Vettio Logo

VP of Cyber SecurityJob Description

Everything recruiters need to write, post, and fill a vp of cyber security role—fast.

Job Description Sample

Need a clear, ready-to-use job description? Copy, paste, and hire faster.

Job Title: VP of Cyber Security

Location: Hybrid/Remote (Major US Cities)

Type: Full-time

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced VP of Cyber Security to lead our global information security strategy and operations. This executive position will be responsible for protecting our organization's data, systems, and infrastructure while driving security innovation and maintaining regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate will combine deep technical expertise with strong business acumen to develop and execute comprehensive security programs that align with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Define and implement enterprise-wide cybersecurity strategy and roadmap
  • Lead and mentor a team of security professionals across multiple disciplines
  • Develop and manage information security budgets and resource allocation
  • Establish security policies, standards, and procedures
  • Oversee security operations, incident response, and threat intelligence
  • Partner with C-suite executives on risk management and strategic planning
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards
  • Direct security awareness and training programs across the organization
  • Manage relationships with security vendors and service providers
  • Report security metrics and KPIs to board and executive leadership

Perks:

  • Competitive executive compensation package with equity
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
  • Annual professional development allowance
  • Executive leadership training programs
  • Flexible work arrangements

VP of Cyber Security Responsibilities

Hiring a vp of cyber security? Here's what you can expect them to handle:

  • Develop and execute enterprise-wide cybersecurity strategy
  • Lead security operations and incident response teams
  • Manage security budget and resource allocation
  • Establish security governance frameworks and policies
  • Drive security automation and innovation initiatives
  • Build and maintain security awareness programs
  • Oversee vendor risk management program
  • Report to board and C-suite on security posture
VP of Cyber Security Job Description

Qualifications to Be a VP of Cyber Security

Here's what a solid candidate typically brings to the table:

CheckmarkMaster's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related field
Checkmark15+ years of information security experience
Checkmark7+ years in senior security leadership roles
CheckmarkCISSP certification required
CheckmarkCISM or CRISC certification preferred

VP of Cyber Security Prerequisites

Before you even think of hiring, make sure your candidates have:

CheckmarkExperience managing security teams of 25+ people
CheckmarkTrack record of building enterprise security programs
CheckmarkStrong understanding of regulatory frameworks
CheckmarkExecutive presentation and communication skills
CheckmarkProven experience with board-level reporting

VP of Cyber Security Hard Skills

The “must-haves” on every recruiter's checklist:

CheckSecurity Frameworks: NIST, ISO 27001, MITRE ATT&CK
CheckRisk Management: GRC platforms, risk assessment methodologies
CheckSecurity Operations: SIEM, EDR, SOAR platforms
CheckCloud Security: AWS, Azure, GCP security controls
CheckNetwork Security: Firewalls, IDS/IPS, Zero Trust
CheckIdentity Management: IAM, PAM, MFA solutions
CheckThreat Intelligence: Threat hunting, vulnerability management
CheckIncident Response: Digital forensics, malware analysis

VP of Cyber Security Soft Skills

Tech skills get them in the door—soft skills help them stick around.

CheckStrategic Leadership and Vision
CheckExecutive Communication
CheckTeam Building and Mentoring
CheckStakeholder Management
CheckCrisis Management
CheckBusiness Acumen
CheckChange Management
CheckProblem-Solving and Decision Making

Related Sections

Job Description SampleResponsibilitiesQualificationsSkills RequiredVP of Cyber Security SalaryFAQ

Frequently Asked QuestionsAbout VP of Cyber Security Hiring

While there is often overlap, a VP of Cyber Security typically focuses more on operational execution while a CISO has broader strategic and governance responsibilities. Some organizations have both roles, with the VP reporting to the CISO.

Present candidates with real-world security scenarios and ask them to outline their approach to solving complex problems. Focus on their methodology for balancing security requirements with business objectives.

While both are important, leadership experience should take priority at this level. The candidate must be able to translate technical concepts for the board while building and leading high-performing teams.

Watch for candidates who focus solely on technical solutions without considering business impact, lack experience with board-level communication, or show limited understanding of risk management principles.

Create a multi-stage process including technical assessment, leadership scenarios, board presentation simulation, and meetings with key stakeholders. Include both security team members and C-suite executives in the evaluation.

Tools and Programs VP of Cyber Security Use

Here's what their digital toolbox might look like:

Security Platforms

Splunk•QRadar

GRC Tools

ServiceNow•RSA Archer

Cloud Security

CloudWatch•Azure Security Center

Network Security

Palo Alto•Cisco

Endpoint Security

CrowdStrike•Carbon Black

IAM Solutions

Okta•Ping Identity

SOAR Platforms

Phantom•Demisto

Analytics

Tableau•PowerBI

Job Description Examples

Search
.NET Architect.NET DeveloperAI/ML EngineerAI/ML InternAndroid ArchitectAndroid DeveloperAndroid Developer InternAngular DeveloperAngular Developer InternApp ArchitectApp DeveloperApp Developer InternApp Development ManagerAssistant Brand ManagerAssistant Communications ManagerAssistant Community ManagerAssistant Ecommerce ManagerAssistant Events ManagerAssistant PR ManagerAssociate Brand ManagerAssociate Communications ManagerAssociate Ecommerce ManagerAssociate Events ManagerAssociate Product ManagerAzure ArchitectAzure EngineerAzure Engineer InternBackend ArchitectBackend EngineerBackend Engineer InternBrand Management InternBrand ManagerBusiness Analyst InternCloud ArchitectCloud EngineerCloud Engineer InternCloud Engineering ManagerCommunications EngineerCommunications Engineer InternCommunity Management InternCommunity ManagerComputer EngineerComputer Engineer InternComputer Technician
1of8
Showing 1-44 of 337 titles

Related Articles

Words to Avoid in Job Descriptions and Why to Avoid Them

Words to Avoid in Job Descriptions and Why to Avoid Them

Learn how to write inclusive, effective job postings that attract diverse talent

See More Articles