Director of Cybersecurity Operations

PURPOSE: 

The Director of Cyber Operations will manage and enhance the IT operations, ensuring the successful delivery of IT services and support. This role involves strategic planning, resource management, and collaboration with various departments to drive technological advancements and improve operational efficiency. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement operational strategies that align with the organization's goals and objectives. Define the vision, scope, and objectives for scalable, intelligence-led cybersecurity operations, integrating threat intelligence into detection, incident response, vulnerability management, and proactive defense initiatives. 

• Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and manage Cybersecurity operational teams, fostering a culture of improvement and technological advancement. Supervise and develop a team of cybersecurity engineers. Provide ongoing coaching and performance feedback to foster a high-performing team. 

• Cost Management: Coordinate with VP on budget, invoicing, and pricing ensuring effective allocation of resources and cost controls for managed teams. 

• Process Development: Evaluate, optimize and implement best practices in cybersecurity operational service delivery. Drive the adoption standardized operating procedures  

• Vendor Management: Collaborate to establish and maintain relationships with Cybersecurity vendors and service providers, assisting with negotiating contracts and ensuring service level agreements are met. 

• Performance Metrics: Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for operational teams with the purpose of gauging and improving the effectiveness of IT operations. Oversee the implementation of health checks, error monitoring, and alerting mechanisms across cybersecurity solutions and services to detect and address operational issues proactively. 

• Stakeholder Engagement: Foster cross-functional collaboration with internal and client stakeholders to drive process optimization and ensure effective resolution of complex issues. 

MINIMUM SKILLS, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE 

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field. 

• 7+ years of experience in Cybersecurity operations, with at least 3 years in a leadership role. 

• Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles and technology 

• Excellent project management skills and familiarity with methodologies like Agile or ITIL. 

• Proven ability to lead teams and manage cross-functional projects. 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on results. 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.  

• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.  

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. 

• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.  

• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.  

• Ability to shift gears and tackle high priority issues.   

PREFERRED SKILLS, EDUCATION OR EXPERIENCE 

• Leadership and team building 

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 

• Strategic thinking and business acumen 

• Proficiency in IT management tools and software 

• Ability to thrive in a fast past environment  

• Adapt and goal setting, and achieving 

• Experience with Microsoft suite MDE, MDO, and Sentinel 

At Ascend Technologies we firmly believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are not only fundamental values but also powerful drivers of innovation, growth, and success. We are committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered. 

CORE VALUES 

We are seeking highly motivated individuals who have the willingness and ability to demonstrate Ascend core values:   

• Committed to Client Success: Our actions and our words always align with the best interest of the client. 

• One Team: We work collaboratively to overcome challenges with humility and respect and do what it takes to find innovative solutions. 

• Integrity: We are unquestionably committed to doing the right thing even when it is hard. 

• Accountability: We hold ourselves and each other accountable for keeping our commitments to our clients, our communities, and one another. 

• Transparency: We create open lines of communication with each other and our clients, fostering relationships founded on candor and trust. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  

Must be able to sit, stand, and bend for the duration of shift. The position is mainly sitting, with occasional lifting up to 50 lbs, such as laptop, server equipment, and, driving to the work site to meet with client(s)
Starting Compensation: $130,000 - $150,000/year
The salary for this position is commensurate with experience, skills, and qualifications. The range is intended to reflect our commitment to attracting top talent, and the final offer will be based on factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's previous experience, expertise in the field, relevant certifications, and the specific requirements of the role. In addition, internal equity, market trends, and geographic location may also influence the final salary.
 
Along with a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings options, flexible time off (FTO), and professional development opportunities. We are open to discussing compensation and benefits further during the interview process to ensure alignment with the candidate’s expectations and experience.