Information Security Risk Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of cyber threats, the role of Information Security Risk Managers has become critically important.
As technology evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can assess, manage, and mitigate security risks within our digital landscape escalates.
But let’s delve deeper: What does an Information Security Risk Manager truly do?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker aiming to understand the specifics of this role,
- A hiring manager identifying the perfect candidate,
- Or simply interested in the complexities of information security risk management,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we introduce a customizable Information Security Risk Manager job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive in.
Information Security Risk Manager Duties and Responsibilities
Information Security Risk Managers are responsible for developing, implementing, and ensuring the compliance of an organization’s information security policies, procedures, and strategies to minimize risk and enhance data security.
The duties and responsibilities include:
- Identifying and assessing security risks that could potentially impact the organization’s information and systems
- Developing and implementing security risk management plans and strategies to mitigate potential threats
- Ensuring the organization’s data privacy and compliance with relevant laws and regulations
- Leading and managing the information security risk team to perform regular audits and ensure security measures are in place
- Working closely with the IT department to implement security measures and infrastructures
- Reporting on the status of information security risks and making recommendations to senior management
- Conducting security awareness training and workshops to educate employees about information security risks
- Managing incident response plans and investigation in case of a security breach
- Keeping abreast of latest security news, trends, and hacker methodologies to ensure the organization’s security measures are updated
Information Security Risk Manager Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a skilled Information Security Risk Manager to identify and mitigate potential security risks within our organization.
The candidate’s responsibilities will include performing regular audits, implementing risk management strategies, and maintaining compliance with security policies.
The ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of IT security and risk management practices, as well as experience in creating and implementing security standards and protocols.
The role of the Information Security Risk Manager is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of our information assets, by effectively managing potential risks and vulnerabilities.
Responsibilities
- Identify and assess potential security risks to the organization
- Develop and implement risk management strategies and plans
- Conduct regular security audits and provide reports
- Maintain compliance with security policies and regulations
- Collaborate with IT department to strengthen system security
- Monitor security vulnerabilities and threats in network and host systems
- Create, modify, and update Information Security policies and procedures
- Provide training to staff on security awareness and procedures
- Respond to security incidents and provide thorough post-event analyses
Qualifications
- Proven work experience as an Information Security Risk Manager or similar role
- Understanding of risk management and its application to information security
- Knowledge of key information security concepts and laws
- Experience in creating, implementing and maintaining security policies
- Familiarity with ISO 27001, PCI DSS and other security standards
- Proficient in risk assessment tools, technologies and methods
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills
- BSc degree in Computer Science, IT, or related field. Certification in CISM, CISSP or similar is a plus
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Information Security Risk Manager
- Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or client consultations.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $140,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does an Information Security Risk Manager Do?
Information Security Risk Managers play a critical role in protecting an organization’s information systems.
They work across sectors, from government agencies to corporations and non-profit organizations.
Their primary duty is to identify, manage, and mitigate potential threats or breaches to an organization’s information system.
This involves carrying out regular assessments and audits to evaluate the organization’s information security policies, procedures, and systems.
Information Security Risk Managers also develop and implement information security strategies and plans in accordance with the organization’s overall risk management strategy.
They ensure the strategies are updated and aligned with the evolving technological landscape and emerging threats.
They work closely with IT staff and management to address any identified vulnerabilities and to enhance the organization’s information security framework.
They are also responsible for creating and maintaining documentation of all risk assessments and response actions.
In cases of security breaches, Information Security Risk Managers lead the incident response, coordinating with various teams to contain the breach and minimize damage.
They also play a key role in post-incident review, identifying areas for improvement to prevent future occurrences.
Moreover, they are charged with educating and training employees about information security risks and compliance requirements to foster a security-conscious culture within the organization.
Information Security Risk Manager Qualifications and Skills
An Information Security Risk Manager should have a range of technical skills, leadership skills and a deep understanding of cybersecurity to effectively assess and mitigate potential security risks, including:
- Extensive knowledge of security protocols, information analysis procedures, and infrastructure protection technologies to assess vulnerabilities and institute security measures.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify security risks, analyze potential impacts, and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.
- Effective communication skills to convey complex security information to both technical and non-technical team members, as well as stakeholders.
- Leadership skills to manage a team of security professionals, fostering teamwork and collaboration.
- Project management skills to oversee the execution of security initiatives and to ensure they are completed within the given timeline and budget.
- Knowledge of regulatory requirements and compliance issues affecting the information security field, including state and federal laws.
- Ability to handle stressful situations and crisis management with professionalism and calm, providing guidance and direction to the team.
- Technical proficiency in security-related hardware and software, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, anti-virus software, and data encryption programs.
Information Security Risk Manager Experience Requirements
Entry-level candidates for an Information Security Risk Manager may have 2 to 3 years of experience, often through a role in IT or cybersecurity.
This could have been achieved through positions such as IT Consultant, Information Security Analyst, or Cybersecurity Specialist.
Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience have usually honed their skills in information security and risk management, often serving in roles like Information Security Officer, IT Risk Analyst, or Cybersecurity Manager.
During this time, they are expected to have acquired knowledge and experience in security protocols, risk assessment methodologies, and regulatory compliance requirements.
Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may have developed advanced risk management skills and are likely to have leadership experience.
They often have backgrounds in roles such as Chief Information Security Officer, IT Risk Manager, or Director of Cybersecurity, where they’ve overseen the security infrastructure of an organization, managed teams, and developed strategies for managing security risks.
All candidates should be well-versed in various information security and risk management frameworks, and hold relevant certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC), or Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).
Higher roles may require a Master’s degree in Information Security or a related field.
Information Security Risk Manager Education and Training Requirements
An Information Security Risk Manager typically needs a bachelor’s degree in information systems, computer science, or a related field.
They need extensive knowledge of computer systems, cybersecurity protocols, and risk management strategies.
This role also requires proficiency in various programming languages, network architecture, and security software.
Many roles require a master’s degree in cybersecurity, information assurance or a related discipline.
This advanced education provides a deeper understanding of the complex issues related to information security and risk management.
In addition, many employers prefer Information Security Risk Managers to have professional certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), or Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC).
These certifications provide evidence of the individual’s skills and knowledge in the field of information security and risk management.
It also indicates a commitment to ongoing learning and maintaining the highest professional standards.
Experience in the field is also important, with many roles requiring several years of work in information technology, cybersecurity or a related area before taking on the role of Information Security Risk Manager.
Practical experience allows these professionals to apply their theoretical knowledge and understand the real-world implications of security risks and the strategies to mitigate them.
Information Security Risk Manager Salary Expectations
An Information Security Risk Manager earns an average salary of $124,582 (USD) per year.
This salary may fluctuate based on the individual’s experience, education, and the location of their work.
The employing company’s size and industry can also significantly impact earnings.
Information Security Risk Manager Job Description FAQs
What skills does an Information Security Risk Manager need?
An Information Security Risk Manager needs a solid foundation in IT and security systems, along with a deep understanding of risk management principles.
They should be well-versed in various cybersecurity frameworks, and have strong analytical skills to assess security threats and vulnerabilities.
Good communication skills are also crucial, as they need to convey complex security data to non-technical staff.
Do Information Security Risk Managers need a specific degree?
Yes, a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field is typically required for the role.
Some organizations prefer candidates with a master’s degree in these areas.
Professional certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) are usually desired.
What should you look for in an Information Security Risk Manager resume?
Look for a strong background in IT and cybersecurity, along with direct experience in risk management.
Certifications such as CISSP, CISM, or Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) should also be highlighted.
It’s also crucial to check their understanding of regulations and standards such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and ISO 27001.
What qualities make a good Information Security Risk Manager?
A good Information Security Risk Manager is detail-oriented and has a high level of integrity.
They should have an analytical mindset to identify and assess potential risks.
Their problem-solving skills should be strong, enabling them to develop and implement effective security measures.
Additionally, they need to have good leadership and team management skills to ensure security protocols are followed.
Is it difficult to hire an Information Security Risk Manager?
Recruiting an Information Security Risk Manager can be challenging due to the specialized skill set required and the increasing demand for these professionals.
The pool of qualified candidates is often limited, making it important to offer competitive compensation, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a work environment that prioritizes security.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve uncovered the significant responsibility of being an Information Security Risk Manager.
What’s the revelation?
It’s not just about managing risks.
It’s about safeguarding the digital future, one security strategy at a time.
With our top-notch Information Security Risk Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully prepared to dive in.
But why halt your journey here?
Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting accurate job listings or polishing your resume to brilliance.
Remember:
Every security measure is a piece of a larger puzzle.
Let’s safeguard that future. Together.
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