Head of Information Security

The Head of Information Security at Hawk is tasked with building and leading the entire information security program. This includes developing a comprehensive security strategy, managing a skilled team of security professionals, conducting audits and assessments, and ensuring compliance with regulations such as ISO 27001 and SOC 2, all while fostering a strong security culture within the organization.

Candidates for the Head of Information Security role at Hawk should hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Information Security, Computer Science, or a related field, alongside a minimum of 9 years of experience in information security. Relevant certifications like CISSP or CISM are desirable. Experience in regulated financial institutions or cloud security is a significant advantage.

At Hawk, the Head of Information Security is responsible for establishing and maintaining security awareness training programs. These initiatives not only educate employees on potential threats but also promote best practices that cultivate a proactive security mindset throughout the organization, ensuring everyone plays a role in safeguarding information.

The Head of Information Security plays a crucial role in ensuring that Hawk complies with relevant industry standards and regulations. This involves overseeing security policies, adapting to changes in the regulatory landscape, and implementing ongoing audits and assessments to mitigate any risks associated with non-compliance, thereby protecting both the company and its clients.

To be successful as the Head of Information Security at Hawk, strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills are essential, paired with excellent leadership and communication abilities. You should also have in-depth knowledge of security architectures and industry best practices, ensuring you can effectively communicate with both technical and non-technical audiences.

To build an effective information security program, I would first conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to identify vulnerabilities. Then, I'd develop a security policy that aligns with business goals, followed by implementing training programs to enhance security awareness among staff, and establishing continuous monitoring and incident response protocols.

I regularly follow industry publications, blogs, and attend conferences focused on cybersecurity. Additionally, I participate in professional groups and forums to exchange knowledge with peers. This continuous learning helps me assess emerging threats and evaluate their potential impact on our security posture.

One notable instance involved a phishing attack that targeted our organization. I led the response team in investigating the breach, coordinating communication with affected parties, and implementing remedial actions. Post-incident, we reinforced training protocols and updated incident response playbooks based on our findings.

I utilize a combination of automated tools and manual assessments to conduct security audits. This includes reviewing access logs, assessing compliance with policies, and evaluating the security measures in place. Engaging diverse team members in the process also fosters a comprehensive view of potential vulnerabilities.

When explaining complex security concepts to non-technical stakeholders, I focus on using relatable analogies and straightforward language to illustrate risks and impacts. Additionally, I provide visual aids or reports that summarize key points clearly, ensuring stakeholders understand the implications for the business.

I have extensive experience in cloud security, implementing security measures across platforms like AWS and Google Cloud. I understand the challenges such as data breaches, misconfigurations, and compliance with regulations. My approach involves utilizing built-in security features, conducting regular assessments, and ensuring proper governance.

I prioritize security risks by evaluating their potential impact and likelihood alongside business objectives. This risk-based approach allows me to allocate resources effectively to address high-priority vulnerabilities while maintaining an overall risk management strategy that aligns with the organization's goals.

Collaboration is vital in information security. I believe in engaging cross-functional teams to integrate security into all business processes, including development. By collaborating with departments like engineering and product management, we ensure that security considerations are embedded from the ground up.

To handle compliance with changing regulations, I stay informed through industry newsletters and regulatory updates. I regularly review our policies to ensure alignment with any changes, and I engage team members in training sessions to ensure everyone is aware and compliant with new regulations.

A strong information security posture is essential for a company like Hawk because we operate in the sensitive financial sector. Protecting our clients' data builds trust, enhances our reputation, and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. It is critical for us to safeguard our technology against evolving threats to maintain our leadership in fraud detection.