Chief Information Security Officer

Chief Information Security Officer

Cherokee Federal seeks a visionary Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead enterprise cybersecurity strategy, governance, and operations. This executive role is responsible for ensuring a secure, compliant, and resilient technology environment while serving as a change leader driving strategic transformation and success. The ideal candidate will possess deep knowledge of emerging AI-driven threats and defenses, and the ability to implement and maintain robust cybersecurity and privacy (CS&P) programs aligned with federal standards. Top Secret clearance needed.

Compensation & Benefits:

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Chief Information Security Officer: Pay commensurate with experience.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided.  Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Chief Information Security Officer Responsibilities Include: 

• Direct and approve the design and architecture of cybersecurity and privacy (CS&P) protections for enterprise IT systems.
• Lead AI-integrated strategies to mitigate modern threats such as sophisticated ransomware, phishing attacks, and AI-generated exploits.
• Oversee ISO 27001 compliance and annual surveillance audits.
• Review and approve all CS&P policies, processes, procedures, and practices—including security control implementations, cyber incident response, and cyber contingency planning.
• Develop proactive risk identification and actionable plans to protect business operations and government contracts.
• Partner with the Project Manager on CMMC implementation, ensuring alignment with DoD compliance standards.
• Promote cybersecurity awareness and policy compliance across the enterprise; ensure enforcement and accountability at all levels.
• Brief executive leadership and stakeholders on cyber risk posture, vulnerabilities, and mitigation efforts.
• Spearhead investment in cybersecurity innovation and infrastructure, with emphasis on AI-driven defense and threat detection tools.
• Leverage emerging generative AI and machine learning capabilities to enhance real-time response and security insights.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and prepare the organization to meet future cyber threats and regulatory challenges.
• Partner with legal, compliance, and HR teams to ensure security policies align with enterprise policies and laws.
• Lead security awareness training programs and educate all levels of the organization on cyber hygiene.
• Engage with external partners, government agencies, and regulators to represent Cherokee Federal’s cybersecurity interests.
• Report regularly to the executive team and board of directors on cyber risk and mitigation efforts.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Chief Information Security Officer Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested: 

• Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 10–15 years of experience in information security with 5+ years in senior leadership with previous CISO experience in a similar sized organization required.
• Demonstrated experience as a change leader, with a record of transforming CS&P programs in highly regulated environments.
• Deep understanding of federal cybersecurity requirements including NIST 800-53, CMMC, DFARS, ISO 27001, and FedRAMP.
• Strong understanding of AI technologies, cloud security, and emerging threats.
• Executive presence with exceptional communication and strategic influencing skills.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM, CISA).
• Top Secret clearance preferred, or the ability to obtain one.
• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Company Information:

Cherokee Nation Businesses Corp - CFED (CNB) is a part of Cherokee Federal – the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government’s mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CNB, visit cherokee-federal.com.

#CherokeeFederal #LI-onsite #LI-WD1

Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.

Keywords

• Cybersecurity Strategy
• AI Driven Threat Defense
• CMMC Compliance
• ISO 27001 / NIST 800-53
• Executive Risk Management

Similar Job Titles

• Vice President of Information Security
• Director of Cybersecurity
• Chief Security Officer CSO
• Head of Information Assurance
• IT Security Executive

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.