Salary for Executive-level / Director Head of Security during 2023

Salary details

The average executive-level / director Head of Security salary lies between USD 225,000 and USD 300,000 globally. It represents the overall compensation/gross salary amount for the working year (before deductions like social security, taxes and other contributions), not including equity/stock options or similar benefits.

All data shown are full-time equivalent (FTE) salaries. Part-time salary information has been extrapolated to its FTE value.

Last updated: Dec. 15, 2024

Salary trend

Top 20 Job Tags for Executive-level / Director Head of Security roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with executive-level / director Head of Security job listings are Cloud, Privacy and Application security. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job tags in 2023 and the number of open jobs that where associated with them during that period:

Cloud | 29 jobs Privacy | 21 jobs Application security | 20 jobs Strategy | 18 jobs ISO 27001 | 16 jobs AWS | 15 jobs SaaS | 15 jobs C | 15 jobs Agile | 15 jobs Compliance | 14 jobs SOC | 14 jobs DevOps | 13 jobs NIST | 13 jobs Azure | 12 jobs CISSP | 12 jobs CISM | 12 jobs SDLC | 12 jobs Audits | 11 jobs PaaS | 11 jobs CISA | 11 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Executive-level / Director Head of Security roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with executive-level / director Head of Security job listings are Career development, Team events and Competitive pay. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job perks or benefits in 2023 and the number of open jobs that where offering them during that period:

Career development | 19 jobs Team events | 16 jobs Competitive pay | 15 jobs Flex vacation | 14 jobs Health care | 14 jobs Equity / stock options | 11 jobs Startup environment | 11 jobs Insurance | 8 jobs Wellness | 6 jobs Unlimited paid time off | 4 jobs Flex hours | 3 jobs Conferences | 3 jobs Home office stipend | 3 jobs 401(k) matching | 2 jobs Parental leave | 2 jobs Fitness / gym | 2 jobs Medical leave | 2 jobs Salary bonus | 2 jobs Lunch / meals | 1 jobs Travel | 1 jobs

Salary Composition

The salary for an executive-level or director head of security position typically comprises a fixed base salary, performance-based bonuses, and additional remuneration such as stock options or other incentives. The composition can vary significantly depending on the region, industry, and company size. In North America, particularly in tech hubs like Silicon Valley, the base salary might constitute 60-70% of the total compensation, with bonuses and stock options making up the rest. In contrast, in regions with a lower cost of living, the base salary might be a larger portion of the total compensation. Industries such as finance and technology often offer higher bonuses and stock options compared to sectors like healthcare or government. Larger companies tend to provide more comprehensive compensation packages, including long-term incentives and retirement benefits.

Increasing Salary Further

To increase your salary beyond the current position, consider pursuing roles with greater responsibility, such as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or other C-suite positions. Expanding your expertise in emerging areas like cloud security, AI-driven security solutions, or cybersecurity risk management can make you more valuable. Networking with industry leaders and participating in high-profile projects can also enhance your visibility and reputation. Additionally, pursuing advanced certifications or an executive MBA can provide a competitive edge and open doors to higher-paying opportunities.

Educational Requirements

Most executive-level positions in cybersecurity require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. However, a master's degree in cybersecurity, information systems, or business administration is often preferred. An MBA with a focus on information security can be particularly beneficial for those aiming for leadership roles, as it combines technical knowledge with business acumen.

Helpful Certifications

Certifications can significantly bolster your qualifications for an executive-level role in cybersecurity. Some of the most recognized and beneficial certifications include:

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
• Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO)
• Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

These certifications demonstrate a high level of expertise and commitment to the field, which can be attractive to potential employers.

Required Experience

Typically, candidates for executive-level cybersecurity roles are expected to have at least 10-15 years of experience in the field. This experience should include a mix of technical roles and leadership positions, demonstrating a progression of responsibility. Experience in managing large teams, developing security strategies, and handling complex security incidents is crucial. Additionally, experience in specific industries, such as finance or healthcare, can be advantageous due to the unique regulatory and security challenges they present.

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