Fast Facts

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is seeking a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead its comprehensive information security program, focusing on safeguarding digital assets, compliance, and fostering cybersecurity awareness across the institution.

Responsibilities: Key responsibilities include developing cybersecurity strategies, protecting sensitive university data, ensuring compliance with regulations, and promoting a culture of cybersecurity awareness.

Skills: Required skills include expertise in cybersecurity frameworks, compliance and risk management, incident response, strong leadership and communication abilities.

Qualifications: Preferred qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in a related field, at least 15 years of information security experience with 8 years in a leadership role, and relevant certifications such as CGRC, CISSP, or CISM.

Location: This is an on-site position based in Orlando, Florida.

Compensation: Not provided by employer. Typical compensation ranges for this position are between $180,000 - $250,000.

Chief Information Security Officer

The University of Central Florida (UCF) invites applications, expressions of interest, and nominations for the role of Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). UCF seeks a dynamic and experienced CISO to lead its comprehensive information security program. The Chief Information Security Officer will lead UCF’s comprehensive information security program.

Founded in 1963 to provide talent for Central Florida, UCF has become one of the largest and most innovative universities in the United States with more than 69,000 students. It has more than 13,000 employees and an operating budget of over $2 billion. UCF researchers received $229 million in fiscal year 2024 for funded research. UCF’s main campus is 13 miles east of downtown Orlando and adjacent to one of the top research parks in the nation. The University also has an accredited College of Medicine in the Medical City at Lake Nona, Rosen College of Hospitality Management located off International Drive, a campus in downtown Orlando, and UCF Connect locations throughout Central Florida.

The UCF strategic plan, Unleashing Potential, Becoming the University for the Future 2022-2027, outlines steps to becoming a top 50 public research university and a designated preeminent university by the State University System of Florida by 2027, and a top 25 public research university with outcomes comparable to members of the Association of American Universities by 2033.

As Florida’s largest university and a national leader in research, UCF handles vast amounts of sensitive data, including national security information, employee and student records, research information and intellectual property, and health information.

The CISO will play a pivotal role in safeguarding the university's digital assets against evolving cyber threats, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness across the institution. Reporting directly to the Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer (CIO), the CISO will collaborate with executive leadership, academic units, research centers, and external partners to align security strategies with UCF's mission of advancing knowledge and serving the community. This position is critical in an R1 environment, where protecting high-value research data, supporting secure high-performance computing, and mitigating risks to grant-funded projects are paramount. The CISO will drive proactive measures to enhance resilience, incident management, and promote secure practices and processes in a diverse ecosystem of faculty, researchers, staff, students, and external partners.

Required Qualifications : Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field from an accredited institution; at least 15 years of progressive experience in information security, with a minimum of 8 years in a leadership role (director equivalent) including previous experience as a Chief Information Security Officer; demonstrated expertise developing and implementing cybersecurity frameworks, compliance and risk management programs, and incident response and disaster recovery processes and programs in highly regulated and/or complex environments; relevant certifications in one or more of the following: CGRC, CISSP, CISM, CRISC, or equivalent; excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders; and, a proven track record of managing teams and budgets in a fast-paced setting.

The full position profile, including additional details on UCF and preferred qualifications can be viewed at: https://dsgco.com/search/22539-university-of-central-florida-chief-information-security-officer

This is a full-time position that will be performed on-site in Orlando, Florida. Salary will be commensurate with experience and includes a generous benefits package.

The review of applications will begin immediately. For best consideration, please send all nominations and applications (including a cover letter and resume) to:

Steve Leo, Managing Director

Vicki Henderson, Senior Associate

[email protected]

As a Florida public university, the University of Central Florida makes all application materials and selection procedures available to the public upon request.

UCF is proud to be a smoke-free campus and an E-Verify employer.

If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 407-823-1336 or email [email protected] .