Technical Cyber Lead Associate Director

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AFS is seeking a dynamic and experienced Technical Cyber Lead Associate Director in the field of Operational Cyber to lead and oversee our advanced cybersecurity initiatives with the Department of War (DoW). This individual will bring a unique combination of leadership expertise, very strong technical acumen in deployed cybersecurity, and hands-on experience with deployed hardware.

This leader will spearhead the technology Insertion effort for a Defensive Cyberspace Operations (DCO) Analysis capability, enabling advanced attack sensing and warning capabilities for maritime forces afloat and ashore, ensuring cyberspace detection-in-depth across operational networks. This leader will oversee end-to-end procurement, integration, testing, and deployment of Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) sensors and associated systems to provide a unified and secure cybersecurity defense mechanism.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership:
• Develop and implement a comprehensive operational cybersecurity strategy aligned with AFS’s mission and business objectives.
• Lead and mentor a team of cybersecurity professionals in delivering cutting-edge solutions to clients across various sectors, with a focus on the defense and government sectors.
• Represent the organization in engagements with senior-level stakeholders, government agencies, and industry partners.
2. Cybersecurity Architecture & Engineering:
• Oversee the development and implementation of advanced cybersecurity architectures and lead the engineering of complex cyber C2 systems.
• Ensure compliance with federal and industry cybersecurity regulations, standards, and best practices, such as NIST, CMMC, and other relevant frameworks.
• Lead threat assessment, vulnerability management, and mitigation efforts to safeguard critical infrastructure and sensitive data.
• Maintain strict adherence to classified information handling, Operations Security (OPSEC) requirements, and other cybersecurity standards as outlined in DoD policies.
• Ensure compliance with Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) guidelines and other relevant security frameworks.
3. Deployed Hardware Expertise:
• Leverage hands-on experience with deployed hardware to drive the integration of secure systems in diverse and challenging environments, including contested and disconnected environments.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to design, implement, and maintain robust hardware solutions that meet mission-critical operational requirements.
4. Client Engagement:
• Work closely with government clients, particularly within the defense and government sectors, to understand and address their cybersecurity challenges.
• Provide thought leadership and strategic guidance on cybersecurity trends, threats, and solutions.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key clients, partners, and stakeholders.
5. Team Development and Collaboration:
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning within the cybersecurity team.
• Provide mentorship and professional development opportunities to team members.
• Collaborate across AFS’s divisions to ensure seamless integration of cybersecurity solutions.
• Ability to form trusted relationships with OEMs, VARs, and strategic ecosystem partners and to coordinate effective negotiations, integration, and long term partnership support models
6. System Integration and Testing:

• Lead the execution of Technical Interchange Meetings (TIMs), Critical Design Reviews (CDRs), Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs), and System Integration Testing (SIT) to ensure the program objectives are met.
• Ensure proper physical and logical integration of systems across designated CONUS Naval Exchange Point (NXP) locations and lab environments.
• Direct the development and execution of test plans, procedures, and data analysis to validate system performance and address any deficiencies.

1. Technical Oversight:

• Ensure comprehensive system integration by developing a System Design Document (SDD), Technical Data Package (TDP), and other engineering artifacts in compliance with MIL-STD and DoD standards.

• Oversee the design, procurement, and testing of COTS sensors and supporting components to meet performance specifications.

• Manage the implementation of cybersecurity standards and Risk Management Framework (RMF) compliance, including vulnerability assessments, security control testing, and adherence to DoD cybersecurity policies.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Demonstrated experience in program management of large-scale DoW acquisition projects, preferably in cybersecurity or network defense systems.
• Expertise in system integration, testing, and compliance with DoW standards (e.g., MIL-STD-31000B, DoDI 8510.01, and RMF frameworks (NIST 800-53)).
• Proven ability to manage complex technical programs, including procurement, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong knowledge of supply chain risk management and configuration management practices.
• Leadership experience in directing cross-functional teams, subcontractors, and Government stakeholders.
• Familiarity with managing classified and CUI materials in accordance with DoD policies.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.

Experience:

• Preferred prior service in the DoW, with a deep understanding of cyber operations, technology, and processes.
• Minimum of 10-15 years of experience in cybersecurity, including leadership roles leading Defensive Cyber Operations for DoW or similar missions
• Proven experience in deployed hardware systems, network security, including their implementation, maintenance, and security in operational environments.
• Expertise in zero trust principles, cyber risk management, threat intelligence, and incident response.
• Familiarity with federal and DoD cybersecurity policies, frameworks, and compliance standards (e.g., NIST, CMMC, RMF).
• Certifications: CISSP required; other Relevant certifications such as CISM, CISA, OSCP, or equivalent are highly desirable.
• Clearance/Citizenship: United States citizenship and an active TS (with SCI eligibility)

Key Competencies:

• Strong leadership and decision-making capabilities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across technical and non-technical teams.
• Strategic thinker with an ability to anticipate and address emerging cybersecurity challenges.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and deliver high-quality results.
• Strong understanding of secure hardware deployment and maintenance in various environments, including austere operational settings.

This role will require a proactive leader capable of delivering mission-critical cybersecurity capabilities to protect the Department of War’s global maritime operations.