Client Overview:​

Our client, a data-focused SaaS company headquartered in San Francisco, is dedicated to delivering secure, scalable data solutions for global customers, including some of the world’s most high-profile enterprises. With a commitment to data privacy and customer trust, the company needed a seasoned cybersecurity leader to spearhead its global information security strategy and build a comprehensive security framework that could scale with its expanding operations.

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Challenge:

The client required an experienced Global Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead their information security division and continue advancing their security posture from a product and enterprise security standpoint. They had challenges in aligning the development team with new security practices, and this role was vital in creating a comprehensive and fortified vision of security, digital product security, and cloud infrastructure. The situation demanded a dynamic leader capable of balancing security governance with innovation, fostering a learning-oriented culture, and effectively communicating the company’s security vision to internal and external audiences.

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Solution:

Leveraging Blackmere’s expertise in placing CISOs, we immediately reached into our extensive network of global security talent.  Our recruitment strategy focused on finding candidates capable of shaping a scalable global security strategy while building a high-performing team to support the client’s continued growth.

Our approach included:

1. Executive-Level Cybersecurity Search: Blackmere prioritized candidates with extensive experience in cloud-based security and leadership in globally distributed, software-driven environments. We focused on identifying individuals who had proven to successfully navigate complex security challenges in a SaaS setting and could execute at a high level within a dynamic, growth-oriented organization.

2. Emphasis on Communication and Strategic Vision: Understanding the importance of aligning security strategy with business goals, we sought candidates who could communicate complex security issues clearly to stakeholders, including the Executive Team, Board of Directors, capital partners, and enterprise customers. This included identifying leaders who could collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to align security initiatives with the company’s broader strategic roadmap.

3. Cultural Fit and Customer-Centric Approach: Given the client’s commitment to customer security and transparency, we prioritized candidates with a proactive, customer-centric approach and the integrity to build trust with customers, external stakeholders, and internal teams. We also looked for leaders passionate about mentorship and team development, aligning with the client’s goal of creating a collaborative, learning-focused security culture.

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Result:

Blackmere successfully placed this Global CISO with the hands-on technical expertise, strategic insight, and ability to lead a team of diverse departments with conflicting interests. This individual’s background in cloud security, compliance, and executive communication enabled them to deliver immediate value by refining the client’s security strategy and establishing a scalable roadmap.

In this first year, the new hire has:

• Developed a global security strategy aligned with the company’s growth objectives, addressing corporate IT, product security, and cloud infrastructure security.

• Built a robust, metrics-driven security framework that allowed for continuous optimization and provided the Executive Team and Board transparency on security effectiveness.

• Strengthened customer trust by serving as a strategic advisor to enterprise clients, communicating the company’s security posture, and negotiating security agreements.

• Mentored and developed the cybersecurity team, fostering a culture of accountability, growth, and data-driven decision-making.

• Successfully led the company through audits and compliance reviews, aligning with documented security standards and industry best practices.

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Impact:

Through Blackmere’s placement of a visionary Global CISO, the client has significantly elevated its cybersecurity posture, fostering a security-first culture that empowers internal teams and fosters customer confidence. By developing a clear, actionable security roadmap and building alignment with executive leadership, the new CISO is positioning the company as a leader in secure SaaS solutions, paving the way for sustainable growth and innovation.  They have since contacted our team to help build the new team structure with a combination of contract and direct-hire talent.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Blackmere’s targeted executive search enabled the client to secure a strategic cybersecurity leader with the expertise and vision necessary to drive both security innovation and business alignment.

• Our focus on cultural fit and customer-centricity ensured a seamless integration, reinforcing the client’s commitment to building trust through transparent, proactive security leadership.

• Blackmere’s understanding of the SaaS landscape and the unique requirements of this high-impact role allowed us to deliver a candidate who has made lasting improvements to the company’s global security strategy.

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