Senior Director of Professional Services

About Gruve
Gruve is an innovative software services startup dedicated to transforming enterprises to AI powerhouses. We specialize in cybersecurity, customer experience, cloud infrastructure, and advanced technologies such as Large Language Models (LLMs). Our mission is to assist our customers in their business strategies utilizing their data to make more intelligent decisions. As a well-funded early-stage startup, Gruve offers a dynamic environment with strong customer and partner networks.

About The Role
Gruve is looking for a seasoned leader to spearhead professional services in cybersecurity—designing, delivering, and ensuring adoption of best-in-class security solutions. The ideal candidate will blend technical mastery (across next-gen firewalls, zero trust, Cisco ISE, SASE, cloud security, AI-driven defenses, SIEM, and XDR) with strategic leadership. You will partner with cross-functional teams (sales, presales, IT, SOC) to align security architecture with evolving business objectives and threat landscapes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a large team of professionals, including managers, architects, consultants, and engineers
• Develop, implement, and enforce company policies, procedures, and standards for professional services delivery
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning within the team
• Develop, manage, and execute global services engagements, including project planning, execution, and delivery in collaboration with the PMO
• Ensure that all services are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards
• Collaborate with clients to understand their needs and expectations and develop customized solutions
• Work closely with the Director of Managed Services to ensure seamless integration of professional services with managed services offerings
• Develop joint strategies for upselling and cross-selling opportunities between the two teams
• Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, partners, and vendors
• Collaborate with the PMO to ensure proper team utilization and P&L oversight on engagements
• Analyze financial performance, identify areas for cost savings, and implement process improvements
• Ensure organization is up to date with emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in cybersecurity
• Develop the team's overall technical knowledge and expertise in specific areas of specialization (e.g., penetration testing, incident response)
• Identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with professional services delivery
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards
• Success is evaluated by ensuring business SLAs and OKRs are met, mentorship is established with leadership teams and key responsibilities are met by the candidate.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or related field; Master's/MBA preferred.
• 12+ years in cybersecurity or IT; with a minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership role managing global professional services teams
• Hands-on experience with firewalls, Cisco ISE, segmentation/SD‑Access, SIEM/XDR, SASE, cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP), and AI-based security solutions.
• Strong technical foundation in networking, cryptography, operating systems, and security tools.
• Deep understanding of cybersecurity frameworks such as NIST CSF (latest v2.0), ISO 27001, MITRE ATT&CK
• Excellent communication skills, especially with senior executives—capable of presenting technical concepts to business leaders effectively.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CCIE Security, or equivalent.
• Expertise with EDR/XDR platforms, SIEM, SOAR automation, and security analytics.
• Proficiency in scripting and automation (Python, PowerShell).
• Flexibility to travel occasionally and support global stakeholder collaboration.
• Willing to work across time zones to support global deliverables.

Why Gruve
At Gruve, we foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute their best work. If you're passionate about technology and eager to make an impact, we'd love to hear from you.

Gruve is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and thank all who apply; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.