Interim Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

Interim Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
Houston, TX (Hybrid – Must Live in the Houston Area) | Long-Term Contract

iSphere is looking for an Interim Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) who can walk into a complex enterprise, quickly separate the real risks from the noise, and build confidence from the boardroom to the server room. This isn't a role for someone who only talks strategy—or only works tickets. Our client needs a leader who can do both.

You'll partner with executive leadership, IT, Legal, Compliance, and business stakeholders to strengthen the organization's security posture, mature cybersecurity operations, and lead critical security initiatives. If you're the kind of leader who can explain cyber risk without resorting to scare tactics, you'll fit right in.

What they're really looking for:

• 15+ years of progressive IT experience with at least 8 years leading enterprise cybersecurity programs
• Previous experience serving as a CISO, Deputy CISO, or senior cybersecurity executive
• Strong background developing and executing enterprise security strategy, governance, and risk management
• Experience leading security operations, incident response, vulnerability management, identity and access management, cloud security, and security architecture
• Deep knowledge of security frameworks including NIST, ISO 27001, CIS Controls, Zero Trust, and enterprise risk management
• Experience presenting security strategy, risk, and metrics to executive leadership and Boards of Directors
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence business decisions across the organization
• Strong understanding of AWS, Azure, SIEM platforms, EDR solutions, IAM, disaster recovery, and business continuity planning

Bonus points if you have:

• CISSP, CISM, CISA, CRISC, CCSP, GIAC, or similar certifications
• Experience in Energy, Healthcare, Financial Services, Manufacturing, or other regulated industries
• Experience leading cloud security initiatives, enterprise modernization efforts, or M&A security integration
• Master's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Systems, or Business Administration

You'll spend your time assessing the current security landscape, developing a practical roadmap for improvement, leading security operations and governance initiatives, guiding incident response efforts, supporting compliance and audit activities, mentoring security teams, and helping leadership make informed decisions about cyber risk. You'll also work closely with technology teams to ensure security is built into infrastructure, applications, and business processes—not bolted on afterward.

The right person for this role knows that being a CISO isn't about saying "no" to every idea. It's about helping the business move forward safely, making smart risk decisions, and building a security program that people actually want to work with instead of around.

If you're an experienced cybersecurity leader who enjoys rolling up your sleeves, building relationships, and leaving an organization significantly stronger than you found it, we'd love to hear from you.