Chief Security Strategist

The Principal Security Consultant plays a crucial role in guiding the strategic development and execution of Microsoft Security Go-to-Market within an aligned industry vertical.

• Secure high-value customer wins by developing compelling case studies that showcase our vertical-specific security expertise.
• Improve alignment and reputation with Microsoft's industry teams, resulting in increased lead flow and deeper strategic collaboration.
• Influence the development and positioning of security capabilities that resonate with vertical-specific needs and regulatory requirements.
• Elevate our market presence through thought leadership, contributing to webinars, white papers, and industry events that build trust and demand.

To achieve these impacts, the Principal Security Specialist will have core responsibilities in the following areas:

Engage Strategically with Customers:

• Act as a trusted security advisor in your assigned vertical, participating in high-value customer engagement.
• Lead and contribute to executive briefings, discovery sessions, proposals, and strategic account planning.
• Ensure visibility and utilization across major deals by proactively engaging with account teams and stakeholders.
• Support the development of customer case studies and success stories that demonstrate impact and innovation.

Drive Thought Leadership and Market Influence:

• Represent our security expertise at industry events, webinars, and forums, elevating our brand and credibility.
• Author white papers and contribute to vertical-specific content that showcases best practices and emerging trends.
• Collaborate with marketing and enablement teams to amplify thought leadership and support broader awareness.
• Build relationships with Microsoft's industry teams to improve alignment and drive joint opportunities.

Shape and Align Security Capabilities:

• Provide feedback and guidance to internal teams to ensure offerings align with vertical-specific security needs and regulatory requirements.
• Influence the development of new capabilities and services based on customer insights and market dynamics.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to ensure consistent messaging and effective positioning of security solutions.
• Contribute to internal planning and governance processes to drive accountability and strategic alignment.

The ideal candidate for this position should possess the following qualifications:

• A computer science or information technology degree or diploma, or equivalent industry experience.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in cybersecurity, including roles such as senior security architect, strategist, or CISO, with deep expertise in vertical-specific requirements.
• Proven success in shaping and executing security strategies and initiatives that drive measurable business outcomes in FinServ, Healthcare, or Retail.
• Strong executive communication and facilitation skills, with experience leading workshops, building consensus, and influencing senior stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional engagements, drive alignment, and proactively contribute to strategic opportunities.
• Familiarity with Generative AI and its implications for security, governance, and risk management.
• Experience with agile methodologies, design thinking, and collaborative solution development.
• Ability to conduct market research and translate insights into actionable security strategies and content.
• Strong collaboration, influencing, and negotiation skills, with a relentless focus on customer success.

This is a dynamic environment where initiative and assertiveness are key. The position requires minimal travel—approximately one to two trips to the US per year.