Chief Product Officer

SANS Institute

1d•Remote

About The Position

SANS is seeking a Chief Product Officer (CPO) to lead the next chapter of our product and innovation journey. The CPO will define and execute our product strategy, ensuring SANS remains the global benchmark for cybersecurity learning while expanding accessibility and impact for future generations. Reporting to the CEO, the CPO will drive the strategy, lifecycle, and performance of our product portfolio—balancing innovation, learner-centric design, and commercial outcomes. The CPO will partner closely with the executive leadership team to align market insight, learner experience, and operational scalability. This is a critical leadership role for a seasoned product executive who can bridge legacy strength with future growth, leading through modernization, customer insight, and disciplined product management.

Requirements

15+ years in product leadership roles, including 5+ years as CPO, SVP/VP of Product, or equivalent.
Proven experience leading through transformation in both mature and high-growth environments.
Demonstrated success launching and scaling B2B and/or B2C learning, training, or certification products.
Deep expertise in customer research, analytics, and data-informed product decision-making.
Strong background in portfolio management, pricing, and product operations.
Track record of modernizing product practices and introducing agile, outcome-driven methodologies.
Collaborative, teacher-leader mindset with a focus on coaching, learning, and alignment.
Exceptional communicator with executive presence and influence across technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Passion for mission-driven work and advancing global cybersecurity capabilities.

Responsibilities

Define and execute a comprehensive product strategy aligned with SANS’ mission and five strategic imperatives: Expand Access, Lead the Market, Accelerate Growth, Modernize How We Work, and Sharpen Our Focus on Learners.
Champion a culture of innovation and learner-centric design.
Identify opportunities to expand reach and relevance through new products, delivery models, and pricing strategies.
Establish a data-driven product discipline grounded in customer research, analytics, and market trends.
Ensure competitive awareness and forward-looking insight into emerging cybersecurity and learning needs.
Lead the end-to-end lifecycle of the SANS product portfolio, ensuring commercial success, quality, and learner impact.
Implement modern product management frameworks, including roadmapping, portfolio prioritization, and measurable outcomes.
Collaborate with the Chief Marketing Officer and regional sales teams to ensure product-market fit and successful go-to-market strategies.
Work with the Chief Technology to align technology investments, platform capabilities, and operational scalability.
Build and lead a high-performing global product organization.
Drive transparency, accountability, and clear decision-making across functions.
Partner with the CEO and executive team on long-term investment planning and product governance.
Other duties as assigned.