Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

About the role

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is seeking a senior leader to head its Information Security Office. The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) will develop, implement and maintain a CSIR‑wide security programme that protects all information assets from evolving internal and external threats.

Key responsibilities

• Develop, review and drive implementation of information security policy, strategy and operational plans.
• Maintain a comprehensive, organisation‑wide information security programme.
• Oversee ISO and Cybersecurity Centre of Innovation managers and teams, allocating resources to deliver secure IT solutions.
• Manage, develop and evaluate staff performance to achieve security objectives.
• Provide leadership and vision for information security across CSIR.
• Continuously update the security programme in line with the changing threat landscape.
• Determine priorities for all CSIR information security issues and direct policy dissemination.
• Lead incident response, develop response plans and measure effectiveness.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading an enterprise‑wide information security function.
• Ability to work with executive management to define acceptable IT risk levels.
• Strong leadership and staff management capabilities.
• Experience overseeing ISO‑based security initiatives.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape the security posture of South Africa’s leading research organisation.
• Leadership role with direct influence on executive decision‑making.
• Competitive remuneration package.