Job Description

If you are motivated and believe in the credit union philosophy of "People Helping People," join our team!

The VP - Data Protection & Cert Mgmt is responsible for delivering SECU’s data discovery, data loss prevention, and cryptography solutions. As a direct report to the AEVP of Cyber Defense, in close partnership with the Data Privacy Officer this role will lead the development and implementation of data protection and privacy program strategies and roadmap initiatives. In addition, this leader will be responsible for the oversight and mentorship of assigned employee, managing budgets, defining deliverables, and providing regular program updates to senior leaders.

Essential Responsibilities:

The VP of Data Protection and Certificate Management defines and implements the strategic vision for data protection, classification, and cryptographic security to protect enterprise assets. They manage a scalable governance framework that ensures technical controls meet both business objectives and strict regulatory compliance. As a senior leader, they drive cross-functional alignment, mentor high-performing teams, and oversee the department’s financial and operational health.

• (25%) Strategic Leadership & Data Protection Define the overarching vision for data protection by collaborating with Information Security, product owners, and endpoint defense teams to ensure a unified security posture.
• (20%) System Architecture & Data Design the scope and implementation of Data Classification framework, ensuring engineers can implement controls and effectively execute technical data handling.
• (20%) Program Management & Compliance Maintain a scalable data protection program that meets business needs and regulatory laws through robust governance, continuous monitoring, and detailed performance metrics.
• (15%) People Leadership & Talent Development Coach and mentor staff through formal performance evaluations, succession planning, and a culture of continuous improvement, while providing recognition for excellence.
• (10%) Business Operations & Financial Oversight Align with IT and Business leadership to ensure security initiatives support organizational goals while strictly maintaining the department’s financial targets and budget.
• (10%) Cross-Functional Collaboration & Training Partner with Learning & Development and Communications to deliver clear training and awareness programs that embed data security practices throughout the Credit Union.

Required Education & Experience (Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities):

• Bachelor’s degree and 7 years of direct experience with at least 1 year of experience in a leadership role.
• Must have Information technology and/or financial Institution experience.
• 7 years of direct experience with at least 1 year of experience in a leadership role.

Preferred Education & Experience (Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities):

• Master’s degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or an MBA with a focus on Information Security is preferred.
• CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CISM (Certified Information Security Manager), CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) or specialized credentials like CDPSE (Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer)
• Senior leadership capacity specifically overseeing data protection, encryption architectures, or Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).

Job Environment & Physical Requirements:

• Hybrid flexibility with some in office required
• Able to work all hours scheduled, including unscheduled overtime as directed by manager/supervisor and required by business need.
• Must be able to comprehend and carry out verbal and written instructions.
• Job requires a substantial amount of sitting.
• Use hands and fingers to press keys on a computer keyboard to enter or retrieve information.
• Use hands and fingers to press telephone keypad and lift telephone receiver.
• Must be able to comprehend phone calls.
• Must be able to lift 5 pounds.

SECU provides equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law.

Disclaimer

State Employees' Credit Union reserves the right to fill this role at a higher/lower level based on business need.