Chief Information Security Officer

Search for the Chief Information Security Officer

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (“MIT” or the “Institute”) seeks an accomplished, strategic, and forward‑looking leader to serve as its inaugural CISO. This role will be accountable for defining and advancing a comprehensive institute‑wide information security strategy to safeguard MIT’s systems, data, and intellectual assets across its globally recognized research and academic enterprise. Reporting to the Vice President for Information Systems and Technology and Chief Information Officer, the CISO will serve as a key advisor to institutional leadership, overseeing enterprise security architecture and guiding MIT’s response to an increasingly complex and evolving threat landscape. It is an incredible opportunity for an experienced cybersecurity professional to join the highly ambitious and collaborative Information Systems and Technology department and make an impact at one of the nation’s premier research institutions. The CISO will have the opportunity to build up MIT’s cybersecurity team and provide leadership over the design, execution, and oversight of all security policies, programs, and practices.

The CISO will join MIT at a pivotal moment as the Institute continues to expand its technological capabilities and digital infrastructure in support of cutting‑edge research, education, and global collaboration. MIT operates at an extraordinary scale and complexity, and within this environment, the CISO will play a central role in enabling innovation while protecting critical assets. The CISO will focus on integrating security into institutional planning and decision‑making and on ensuring that security practices keep pace with advancements in cloud computing, emerging technologies, and distributed research environments. By working closely with stakeholders across schools, labs, and administrative units, the CISO will help MIT remain at the forefront of secure and responsible technological innovation.

Equally important, the CISO will be responsible for embedding a “security‑first” culture across campus, partnering with faculty, researchers, and administrators to promote shared accountability for protecting data and systems. Through strong collaboration, communication, and education, the CISO will elevate security awareness and ensure that MIT’s information security posture remains resilient, adaptive, and aligned with institutional priorities.

The ideal candidate will be a seasoned cybersecurity executive with the ability to operate credibly at the highest levels of a complex organization. Success in this role will require exceptional strategic judgment, deep expertise in enterprise security, and a demonstrated ability to build and lead a high‑performing team. The CISO will recruit, mentor, and retain top cybersecurity talent while fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. With a collaborative, mission‑driven approach, this leader will forge strong partnerships across the Institute, effectively communicate complex security concepts to diverse audiences, and guide MIT in navigating an increasingly dynamic and high‑stakes cybersecurity environment.

Location and Compensation

This is an on‑site position in Cambridge, MA. The compensation range for this position is $325,000 - $375,000.

Applications, Inquiries, and Nominations

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and CVs with cover letters should be sent via the Isaacson, Miller website. Electronic submission of materials is strongly encouraged.

Contact

Dan Rodas, Partner

Kristen Andersen, Senior Associate

Seema Khan, Senior Search Coordinator

Isaacson, Miller

Equal Employment Opportunity

MIT is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin. MIT values diversity and inclusion and seeks to build and maintain a community and culture that celebrates and values diverse backgrounds, identities, and perspectives.