This role pays more than
93%
of similar roles. Most pay
$156,700–$221,512
— the shaded band above.
At the midpoint, this role pays about
$279k
versus about
$189k
for comparable roles.
Based on 239 similar postings.
Employer
About Gilead Sciences
Gilead Sciences, Inc. is a leading American biopharmaceutical company specializing in discovering, developing, and commercializing innovative medicines for unmet medical needs.
Gilead Sciences currently has
22 open roles
on FindRole.
Listed pay typically runs
$169,320–$219,120
across 21 roles with salary data.
Sr Director, IT Head of Security Operations leads a mission-critical team responsible for safeguarding the integrity of scientific data, digital assets, and operational environments within a biopharmaceutical context. This leader manages the Security Operations function, overseeing Identity and Access Management, Endpoint Security, Network Security, Platform Security, and application security including SAST/DAST testing and penetration testing. The role involves managing Managed Service Provider partnerships, defining multi-year roadmaps, and executing automation to reduce operational overhead while ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations and data privacy standards. Key technical competencies include expertise in SIEM, vulnerability management, cryptography, cloud security, and the NIST and MITRE attack frameworks. This position serves as a strategic advisor to ensure that digital and AI-driven transformation initiatives remain secure while supporting the development of life-saving therapies through robust infrastructure and proactive threat response capabilities.
Define and execute a multi-year Security Operations strategy and roadmap aligned with enterprise risk and digital transformation goals.
Manage the Security Operations function across domains including Identity and Access Management, Endpoint, Network, Platform, and application security.
Lead and manage Managed Service Provider (MSP) operations by establishing and monitoring OKRs, KPIs, and service level metrics.
Oversee the operational budget, vendor performance, and cost-of-ownership optimization for all Security Operations activities.
Drive continuous improvement and automation initiatives to reduce operational overhead and strengthen cyber resilience.
Represent Security Operations in enterprise governance, risk discussions, audit forums, and major IT initiatives.
Advise senior leadership on operational security risks, investment trade-offs, and response priorities affecting company-wide resilience.
Manage the application security team including SAST/DAST testing, penetration testing, and remediation efforts.
What we're looking for
Bachelor of Science degree in management information systems, computer science, engineering, or another IT-related major is required.
14+ years of relevant experience are required, or 12+ years with a master's or PhD.
Information security related certifications such as CISSP, CRISC, CCSP, or GIAC are required.
A minimum of 8-10 years of leadership responsibilities is required.
Strong understanding of cybersecurity technologies including identity and access management, network security, and cloud security is required.
Knowledge of NIST cyber security, MITRE attack frameworks, and healthcare-related regulations is required.
Experience in a biopharma organization is preferred.
Experience in a cloud-centric environment is preferred.