VP of IT Security

Careerscape is recruiting on behalf of our client, a global law firm with a growing presence in Austin, for a VP of IT Security to lead the firm's information security program. This is a rare opportunity to own cybersecurity strategy for an organization where client confidentiality, data privacy, and regulatory compliance are mission-critical, working directly with firm leadership to protect sensitive legal, financial, and client matter data across a global footprint.

Day to day, this role blends strategic planning with hands-on leadership of a security team, vendor and risk management, and close coordination with attorneys, IT operations, and outside counsel on data protection matters. The ideal candidate thrives in a high-stakes, reputation-sensitive environment, communicates security risk clearly to non-technical stakeholders including partners and clients, and has the gravitas to influence firm-wide policy while staying close enough to the technical details to guide incident response.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the firm's global information security strategy and roadmap
• Lead, mentor, and grow a team of security engineers and analysts
• Oversee security operations including threat detection, monitoring, and incident response
• Manage security risk assessments across offices, practice groups, and third-party vendors
• Ensure compliance with client outside counsel guidelines, data privacy laws, and industry frameworks
• Direct identity and access management, endpoint protection, and network security programs
• Partner with firm leadership and general counsel on data breach preparedness and response
• Evaluate and manage relationships with security vendors and managed service providers
• Present security posture, risk, and incident updates to firm partners and clients
• Drive security awareness training programs for attorneys and staff firmwide

Requirements

• 15+ years of progressive information security experience with prior leadership roles
• Experience securing environments in a law firm, financial services, or other highly regulated industry
• Deep knowledge of security frameworks such as NIST, ISO 27001, and ABA cybersecurity guidance
• Proven track record building and leading security teams and incident response programs
• Strong understanding of client outside counsel guidelines and data privacy regulations
• Relevant certifications such as CISSP, CISM, or CRISC strongly preferred
• Experience managing security budgets, vendors, and enterprise-wide risk assessments
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to advise partners and executive leadership
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or related field required

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Firm-sponsored 401(k) with employer match
• Generous paid time off and firm holidays
• Life and disability insurance
• Annual bonus eligibility
• Professional development and certification reimbursement
• Wellness and employee assistance programs
• Parking or commuter benefits
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates

Job Type: Full-Time | Work Type: On-site | Industry: Legal & Compliance | Experience: Executive