Head of Security, GRC

Valon

Head of Security GRC overseeing governance, risk, and compliance for Valon, an AI-native fintech startup. Ensuring security practices for customer data and regulatory requirements are met.

Posted 5/15/2026full-timeRemote • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $190,000 - $250,000 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Cyber Security

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Manage and expand Valon's security and privacy compliance program across key frameworks and regulations (e.g., SOC 2, NYDFS Cybersecurity Regulation, FTC Safeguards Rule, CCPA and evolving regulations)
Build and scale modern Security GRC capabilities that leverage AI-enabled tools and processes, reducing manual overhead while optimizing risk and compliance operations
Support AI security standards development and risk processes
Design, develop and monitor technical security controls
Lead audit preparation and management
Maintain and evolve Valon's risk management practices; facilitate risk assessments across teams and track remediation of identified issues to closure
Develop, publish, and maintain security policies, standards, and procedures in partnership with IT, Engineering and Legal
Build and mature Valon's Data Governance program including secure data handling practices
Enhance BC/DR risk management practices and processes
Partner with Engineering and Product to assess security compliance implications of new features, infrastructure changes, and data flows
Manage security compliance, regulatory requirements, and customer-facing due diligence, while supporting operational security activities including advisory reviews, incident management, and issue remediation

Requirements

What you’ll need

Proven experience owning a security GRC program at a tech or fintech organization
Strong experience designing, developing and implementing technical security and privacy controls
Deep familiarity with SOC, NYDFS Part 500, FTC Safeguards Rule, and CCPA; experience with NIST CSF, ISO 27001 and related frameworks
Hands-on experience building or maturing a data governance program, including classification frameworks, retention policies, and data subject rights workflows
Knowledge of BC/DR controls - BIA, RTO/RPO, recovery playbooks, and tabletop exercises
Strong track record managing external audits end-to-end — scoping, evidence coordination, findings remediation
Familiarity with AI governance and risk frameworks, including assessing security risks introduced by LLM and agentic systems
Experience applying AI tools to security and/or GRC processes
Ability to translate technical security controls into clear compliance narratives for auditors, customers, and executives
Applied knowledge with industry security and compliance frameworks (NIST, CIS, SOC 2/ISO 27001 concepts)
Hands-on in both developing and operating security processes day-to-day (builder and operator)
Excellent communication and collaboration skills, including the ability to explain complex security concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
Experience working in high-growth or startup environments is a plus
7+ years in a progressive security management roles leading security focused technical GRC, compliance, and/or risk management programs
Bachelor's degree in Information Security, Computer Science, Technology or related field
Relevant security certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM, CRISC, CISA or similar)
Hands-on experience managing compliance audits such as SOC 2, ISO 27001 and others
Experience driving risk management and assessment practices at scale
Applied knowledge of data governance processes and standards

Benefits

Comp & perks

Base Compensation Band: $190K - $250K.
Compensation: Competitive salary with a meaningful stake in the company via equity, and 401k plan
Health & well-being: We’ll invest in your physical and mental well-being with comprehensive medical, dental, & vision benefits
Commuter benefits: We offer pre-tax deductions for public transportation, rideshare services, and parking expenses to make your commute more affordable and convenient
Grow together: Company wide orientation for you to successfully onboard and other learning & development opportunities including regular review cycles that feature 360 degree feedback
Play together: Quarterly budgets for team and company outings. Use it for team swag, cooking classes, or team dinners!
Generous time off: Flexible paid time off, sick days, and 11 company holidays
Baby bonding time!: 12 weeks off for both birthing and non-birthing parents - fully paid so you can focus your energy on your newest addition

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

security GRC programtechnical security controlsdata governance programBC/DR controlsaudit managementAI governance frameworksrisk management practicescompliance narrativessecurity processesrisk assessments

Soft Skills

communication skillscollaboration skillsability to explain complex conceptsleadership skillsorganizational skills

Certifications

CISSPCISMCRISCCISAISO 27001