Information Security Program Manager

At Ardent , we hire people who want more than a job — they want to serve a mission that matters. Our teams support the federal government’s most critical national security and defense priorities, helping protect the nation, strengthen resilience, and advance the technologies and capabilities that keep America secure.

We also know top talent has choices, which is why we back our mission with benefits and flexibility that stand out: competitive pay, comprehensive health coverage, flexible PTO, federal holidays off, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, wellness stipends, and a culture that values and rewards hard work, dedication, and adaptability. If you want to build something meaningful, while enjoying the kind of flexibility and support that you need to do your best work — Ardent is where your next mission begins.

Ardent is seeking an Information Security Program Manager to join our team.

This is a hybrid position located in Rockville, MD.

Position Description

Ardent is seeking an Information Security Program Manager to lead overall contract performance in support of federal cybersecurity operations, with a strong emphasis on quality assurance and program governance. This role will oversee contractor staff, support strategic cybersecurity planning, and work closely with leadership to enhance and mature the organization’s security posture.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Provide overall leadership and accountability for contract performance and program execution.
• Manage contractor personnel and oversee execution of all assigned cybersecurity tasks.
• Support the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) in strategic planning of the cybersecurity program.
• Implement and maintain programmatic quality assurance processes.
• Identify areas for improvement and recommend enhancements to cybersecurity operations.
• Ensure alignment with federal cybersecurity standards, including FISMA and NIST frameworks.
• Coordinate activities across teams to ensure consistent and effective program delivery.
• Serve as a senior liaison between stakeholders and program leadership.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of project or program management experience.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience with FISMA and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing cybersecurity programs and personnel.
• One of the following certifications: CISSP, CAP, CISM, or equivalent DoD 8570 IAM Level III certification.
• Equivalent certifications must be approved by the COR prior to contract award.

Preferred Qualifications

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
• Experience supporting federal cybersecurity programs and compliance initiatives.
• Strong background in quality assurance and program governance.

Background Check

Due to the nature of the work we support, all candidates in consideration for this role must be willing to undergo the government‑issued background investigation process prior to receiving system access. We highly encourage all Veterans and those with disabilities to apply.

EEO Statement

Ardent is an equal‑opportunity employer. We will not discriminate in employment, recruitment, advertisements for employment, compensation, termination, upgrading, promotions, and other conditions of employment against any employee or job applicant on the bases of race, color, gender, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran's status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other basis protected by state, local, or federal law.