Sr. Director Office of CISO

Proofpoint • Sunnyvale, CA

11d • $172,320 - $327,580

About The Position

Proofpoint is a global leader in human- and agent-centric cybersecurity, securing how people, data, and AI agents connect across email, cloud, and collaboration tools. Proofpoint is a trusted partner to over 80 of the Fortune 100, over 10,000 large enterprises, and millions of smaller organizations in stopping threats, preventing data loss, and building resilience across people and AI workflows. Proofpoint’s collaboration and data security platform helps organizations of all sizes protect and empower their people while embracing AI securely and confidently. The Senior Director, Office of the CISO is a strategic and operational leader who enables the success of Proofpoint’s global security mission. Reporting directly to the CISO, this role combines the strategic alignment and leadership partnership of a Chief of Staff with the operational rigor of a Head of Security Operations. As a trusted advisor, this senior leader connects strategy to execution—driving alignment, transparency, and excellence across all security functions. You will manage the operational cadence of the Office of the CISO, oversee critical programs and communications, and ensure that the CISO’s strategic priorities are executed effectively. This role is ideal for a leader who thrives at the intersection of cybersecurity strategy, operations, and organizational leadership.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Cybersecurity, Business Administration, or related field.
• Experience: 10+ years of experience in cybersecurity, technology strategy, or business operations.
• 5+ years supporting senior executives in a Chief of Staff, Head of Operations, or equivalent role.
• Proven track record driving strategic and operational excellence in large, global, complex organizations.
• Strong understanding of enterprise security functions, governance, and operational frameworks.
• Excellent executive communication skills with the ability to influence across technical and non-technical audiences.
• Demonstrated success in program execution, leadership enablement, and organizational design.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in the cybersecurity or SaaS sector.
• Executive presence with the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strategic thinker with strong operational discipline.
• Trusted advisor with exceptional judgment and professionalism.
• Ability to manage ambiguity and drive clarity across complex initiatives.
• Passion for building high-performing teams and enabling leadership success.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Alignment Align security priorities with business outcomes, ensuring accountability across all security functions.
• Synthesize insights and performance data to inform executive decisions and board-level reporting.
• Act as a strategic advisor and representative for the CISO in internal and external engagements.
• Security Operations Manage the Office of the CISO’s operations, including leadership collaboration, programs reviews, and operational reporting cycles.
• Maintain organizational visibility into priorities, risks, and resource allocation.
• Oversee execution of strategic, cross-functional information security programs Implement a structured program management framework to ensure delivery, accountability, and measurable impact.
• Establish and monitor OKRs, KPIs, and operational dashboards to track progress and outcomes.
• Communication & Influence Serve as the operational liaison between the Office of the CISO and key partners across the enterprise.
• Build strong cross-functional relationships to influence and align leadership around key initiatives.
• Lead development of executive and board-level materials, including risk posture updates, performance metrics, and strategic briefings.
• Drive internal communications, ensuring consistent messaging and awareness across the global security organization.
• Team Leadership & Development Build, lead, and develop a global team within the Office of the CISO, fostering a culture of operational excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Empower teams to execute with precision—leveraging data, performance metrics, and structured decision-making to drive measurable security and business outcomes.
• Promote a pragmatic balance between risk management and business enablement, ensuring security initiatives are grounded in strategic value, operational efficiency, and measurable impact.
• Cultivate leadership readiness and organizational resilience through coaching, collaboration, and transparent performance management.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Comprehensive benefits
• Learning & Development: We are committed to the growth and development of our team members, offering a range of programs including leadership and professional development workshops, stretch project assignments, and mentoring opportunities to help employees reach their full potential.
• Flexible work environment: [Remote options, hybrid schedules, flexible hours, etc.].
• Annual wellness and community outreach days
• Always on recognition for your contributions
• Global collaboration and networking opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees