Risk & Cybersecurity Strategy Consultant

Subject Matter Expert (SME) – Cybersecurity & Risk Assessment

Overview:
The Subject Matter Expert (SME) provides advanced technical expertise to support assessment operations, with a focus on cybersecurity, risk analysis, and program integrity. This role is responsible for enhancing operational processes, developing standard operating procedures (SOPs), and ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and effectiveness of security-related initiatives. The SME works cross-functionally to evaluate systems, identify vulnerabilities, and recommend mitigation strategies in alignment with federal and industry standards.

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Key Responsibilities:
•    Provide expert-level technical guidance and analysis to support cybersecurity and risk assessment initiatives, including supply chain risk management. 
•    Develop, enhance, and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) to support assessment execution and implementation. 
•    Conduct security assessments and hands-on testing, analyze results, document risks, and recommend appropriate countermeasures. 
•    Identify, evaluate, and report on system vulnerabilities, threats, and security gaps. 
•    Review and provide recommendations on program-level documentation, including: 
o    Requirements specifications 
o    System architecture and design documents 
o    Test plans and security plans 
•    Develop and document security evaluation test plans and procedures. 
•    Support the development and implementation of information security policies, standards, and guidance. 
•    Ensure compliance with applicable frameworks and regulations (e.g., FISMA, NIST, OMB). 
•    Perform risk assessments, including analyzing threats, vulnerabilities, and potential impacts. 
•    Coordinate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to support security testing and program objectives. 
•    Lead or participate in technical exchange meetings, documenting outcomes and action items. 
•    Prepare and deliver briefings to leadership on project status, risks, and key findings. 
•    Analyze and synthesize data from multiple sources to produce clear, actionable insights for both technical and non-technical audiences. 
•    Provide oversight for the design, development, and implementation of security support systems. 
•    Collaborate with stakeholders to map system functionality to security controls and compliance requirements. 
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Qualifications:
•    Education: 
o    Master’s degree (MS/MA) in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field 
•    Experience: 
o    Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in cybersecurity, risk management, or assessment operations 
o    Experience supporting federal or highly regulated environments preferred 
•    Certifications (preferred): 
o    CISSP, CISM, CISA, CEH, or other relevant industry certifications 
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Required Skills & Expertise:
•    Strong knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks and standards (FISMA, NIST, OMB, etc.) 
•    Experience with risk assessments, vulnerability analysis, and security testing methodologies 
•    Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear documentation and briefings 
•    Familiarity with security documentation development, including risk assessments, contingency plans, and test reports 
•    Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills 
•    Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment