Hire a CISO: Interim & Permanent
The Chief Information Security Officer is the linchpin of your cybersecurity strategy. Whether you are looking for an interim CISO to build a security programme, or a permanent leader who protects your organisation long-term: MVPeople Group delivers the CISO that fits your organisation. Through MVPeople for interim assignments and MVPermanent for permanent positions we serve every need.
What does a CISO do?
The CISO is responsible for the complete information security policy of your organisation. This goes beyond technical measures: a CISO translates business risks into concrete security strategies, reports to the board and ensures compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
In daily practice a CISO leads the security team, directs security projects, manages the security budget and serves as the primary point of contact during incidents. The CISO functions as a bridge between the technical organisation and the boardroom, translating complex risks into understandable business language.
With increasing regulation such as NIS2, DORA and the tightening of the GDPR, the need for experienced CISOs who are not only technically proficient but can also think strategically and engage stakeholders in the necessity of information security continues to grow. The Dutch market faces a structural shortage of qualified CISOs, making the right recruitment partner all the difference.
MVPeople Group has an in-depth network of senior security leaders with proven experience across diverse sectors: financial services, government, healthcare, technology and industry. We assess candidates not only on their CV but also on leadership style, cultural fit and strategic capability.
Security Strategy
Developing and executing the information security policy
Risk Management
Identifying, assessing and mitigating cyber threats
Team Leadership
Leading and developing the security team and security culture
Compliance
Ensuring adherence to GDPR, NIS2, DORA and ISO 27001
Boardroom Reporting
Translating security risks into understandable business impact
Security Awareness
Building a security-conscious organisational culture
Interim CISO vs. Permanent CISO
The choice between an interim or permanent CISO depends on your specific situation, budget and objectives. MVPeople Group is happy to advise you on the best approach.
Interim CISO via MVPeople
- Rapidly deployable for urgent security challenges
- Ideal for establishing a security programme
- Bridging the gap when the current CISO departs
- Objective outside perspective on your security maturity
- Flexible in duration: from 3 months to 1 year or longer
Permanent CISO via MVPermanent
- Long-term vision and continuity in security policy
- In-depth knowledge of your organisation and culture
- Building lasting relationships with stakeholders
- Structural team development and capacity building
- Embedding security within the corporate culture
What we look for in CISO selection
Selecting a CISO requires more than assessing technical knowledge. An effective CISO combines strategic thinking with operational decisiveness. We assess candidates on their ability to translate security into business impact, their leadership style, experience with boardroom communication and their track record in comparable organisations.
In addition we look at certifications such as CISSP, CISM and CCISO, experience with relevant frameworks (ISO 27001, NIST CSF, NIS2) and sector-specific knowledge. A CISO in the financial sector requires different expertise than a CISO in healthcare or government. We match not only on paper but also on cultural fit and leadership style.
Frequently asked questions about CISO Recruitment
What exactly does a CISO do?
A Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is responsible for the entire information security strategy of an organisation. This includes developing security policies, managing risks, leading the security team, reporting to the board and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations such as GDPR, NIS2 and ISO 27001.
When does my organisation need a CISO?
Organisations need a CISO when information security becomes a strategic priority. This is the case with growing digital risks, increasing regulation (NIS2, DORA), after a security incident, or when clients and partners impose higher security requirements. A CISO is also indispensable during mergers, acquisitions or digital transformations.
What is the difference between an interim CISO and a permanent CISO?
An interim CISO is deployed temporarily, typically for 3 to 12 months, to lead a specific project, establish a security programme or bridge a vacancy. Through MVPeople we deliver interim CISOs who make an immediate impact. A permanent CISO via MVPermanent is a long-term appointment who develops long-term strategy and continuously manages the security programme.
How quickly can MVPeople Group deliver a CISO?
Thanks to our extensive network of senior security leaders, we typically present suitable CISO candidates within 5 to 10 working days. For interim assignments a CISO can often start within 2 weeks, depending on availability and screening requirements.
What background does a good CISO have?
A strong CISO combines technical depth with strategic insight and leadership qualities. Common backgrounds include IT security management, risk management or IT audit. Relevant certifications are CISSP, CISM, CCISO and ISO 27001 Lead Auditor. Experience with boardroom communication is essential.
What are typical market rates for a CISO?
An interim CISO in the Netherlands typically charges a day rate that varies based on seniority, sector and complexity of the assignment. Permanent CISO salaries depend on organisation size and industry. Get in touch for a current market indication based on your specific situation.
Can MVPeople also deliver a fractional CISO?
Absolutely. For organisations that do not require a full-time CISO, we offer fractional CISOs who are available a number of days per week. This is a cost-effective solution for SMEs or companies looking to build their security maturity without immediately appointing a full-time leader.
Looking for a CISO?
We deliver interim and permanent CISOs who elevate your organisation to a higher security level. Get in touch today.