Interim CISOs and cyber leaders, ready to run the programme.
Demand Cyber places interim CISOs, fractional security leaders and identity programme leads. They own security strategy and the programme for as long as you need them, reporting to your board.
What's the difference between an interim, fractional and virtual CISO?
An interim CISO works full-time for a fixed period, usually to cover a gap or lead a change. A fractional or virtual CISO (vCISO) works part-time over a longer period, giving you senior oversight without a full-time hire.
| Model | Time commitment | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Interim CISO | Full-time, fixed term | Covering a vacancy or leading a major change |
| Fractional CISO / vCISO | Part-time, ongoing | Senior oversight without a full-time hire |
| And More | Ask us about other leadership models. | |
What does an interim CISO do in the first 90 days?
The first month is about understanding risk and people, the second about agreeing a plan, and the third about early wins and what comes next. The exact shape depends on why the role is interim.
Illustrative. Every engagement is shaped in the scoping call.
When does interim leadership make sense?
Usually when a security leader leaves, or when a programme needs a senior owner before you can hire permanently. It also helps when the board wants an independent view of where you stand.
Which leadership roles can you fill?
Security leaders and the people who run identity and security programmes. Roles are available on interim, fractional or permanent terms.
How do you vet security leaders?
Leaders pass the same four screening stages, with the technical stage adapted to test whether they can review a design and challenge an engineer. The CISSP-led panel then focuses on strategy, stakeholders and how they have handled incidents and audits.
Can I hire a cyber leader on an interim or permanent basis?
Both, and fractional too. Interim and fractional leaders work on a day-rate or part-time contract, and permanent hires are fee-based with a replacement guarantee.
Common questions.
How quickly can an interim CISO start?+
Many of our contractors are available within one to two weeks of the scoping call. Senior leaders on notice can take longer, and we'll tell you up front.
Can an interim leader help hire their permanent replacement?+
Yes. We can run the permanent search alongside them.
Is your vCISO a managed service?+
No. We place the person, and they work for you directly on a day-rate or part-time contract.
What if I don't have the budget for an onshore resource?+
Our Global & Blended Teams option pairs an onshore lead with vetted engineers in our talent hubs in the Philippines, Vietnam and Singapore. You keep a local point of contact at a lower blended day rate, and every engineer passes the same practitioner vetting. See Global & Blended Teams
Need a cyber leader?
Book a 30-minute scoping call. You'll speak to a practitioner, not a recruiter.