Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) provides strategic leadership for the universitys comprehensive information security and cybersecurity programs. This position is responsible for protecting the institutions digital assets research data student information and technology infrastructure while enabling academic excellence and research innovation. The CISO reports directly to the Chief Information Officer and serves as a key collaborator to the senior leadership team.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelors degree and seven years of information security work experience from one or a combination of security architecture and design security engineering auditing and compliance incident response and forensics security awareness training and the management of an IT security department. Demonstrated experience managing enterprise-wide security programs in complex distributed environments. Familiarity with Zero Trust architecture principles and enterprise identity governance. Experience in conducting security tabletop exercises or cyber incident simulations; use of cybersecurity maturity models such as NIST CSF Tiers or CMMC. Professional security certifications required (CISSP CISM CISA or equivalent). Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to present complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences. Strong leadership and team management capabilities. Knowledge of emerging technologies in higher education (cloud computing IoT AI/ML security implications).

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in computer science management information systems computer engineering or related area. Higher education experience. Deep knowledge of information security frameworks (NIST Cybersecurity Framework ISO 27001/27002 CIS Controls). Experience with security technologies including SIEM endpoint protection network security tools and cloud security platforms. Knowledge of research security requirements and federal compliance mandates. Experience with security program maturity ssessments and continuous improvement initiatives.

While applications and nominations will be accepted until a successful candidate has been appointed interested parties are encouraged to submit their materials by September 5 2025 to receive optimal consideration. Applications (letter of interest addressing the qualifications and responsibilities listed above current resume and the names email addresses and telephone numbers of five references) must be submitted to req #
492963. For questions please contact Martin Baker and Chelsie Whitelock at Buffkin/Baker as indicated below:

Martin M. Baker Managing Partner Buffkin/Baker

Chelsie Whitelock Associate Partner

Oklahoma State University (OSU) strives to provide a safe study work and living environment for its faculty staff volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations OSU conducts pre-employment background checks on final candidates. Offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include but is not limited to criminal (felony and misdemeanor) history sex offender registry motor vehicle history financial history and/or education verification. Background checks will be conducted when required by law or contract and when in the discretion of the university it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

Oklahoma State University as an equal opportunity employer complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination. Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race religion age sex color national origin marital status disability or veteran status with regard to employment educational programs and activities and/or admissions. For more information visit .

Required Experience:

Chief