Head of Detection and Response

About the role

Plaid is on a mission to create a new Detection and Response team dedicated to protecting its financial systems by identifying and mitigating suspicious activities. This position requires the individual to build and lead a skilled technical team that will oversee the entire lifecycle of security detection and response. Key responsibilities will include developing infrastructure, implementing AI-driven triage, creating investigation tools, and managing Red Team and Fraud Operations. Your leadership will be vital in maintaining the confidence that numerous businesses and millions of consumers place in Plaid.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Define and establish the operational standards and culture for the newly formed Detection and Response team at Plaid.
• Oversee daily incident response operations, evaluating the effectiveness of the detection and response framework.
• Lead and mentor a technical team focused on developing detection infrastructure, AI-based triage systems, and investigation tools.
• Manage Fraud Operations and Red Team initiatives to ensure a proactive approach to security.
• Collaborate with senior executives, including the CISO, CTO, and COO, to convey security risks and advancements in security maturity.
• Create and track metrics that illustrate the effectiveness and impact of the Detection and Response program on overall security posture.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the team, encouraging innovation and adaptation to emerging threats.
• Engage in cross-departmental collaboration to enhance security measures and promote a security-first mindset across the organization.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies to ensure the team is equipped with the latest tools and knowledge.
• Develop training programs to elevate the skills of team members and ensure they are well-prepared to handle evolving security challenges.
• Report regularly to executive leadership on the status of security initiatives and the overall health of the security environment.
• Participate in incident response drills and tabletop exercises to ensure team readiness and effectiveness in real-world scenarios.

Requirements

• A minimum of 8 to 14 years of experience in detection and response or security engineering roles.
• A robust technical foundation in security or detection engineering, with proficiency in Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems, Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), and Security Operations Center (SOC) functions.
• Demonstrated experience in leading a team of security analysts and engineers within operational, platform, or infrastructure contexts.
• Proven capability to build and maintain relationships across various departments, enhancing security through collaborative influence.
• Exceptional communication skills, particularly in articulating technical concepts to staff-level leadership and stakeholders.
• A strong focus on AI-driven methodologies applicable to security operations, with a commitment to leveraging technology for enhanced security outcomes.

Nice to have

• Prior experience in a fintech or high-tech organization, particularly those involved in payments or financial services.
• A background in fraud investigation or software engineering, providing additional insights into security challenges.
• Familiarity with regulatory compliance and risk management frameworks relevant to the financial industry.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in using SIEM tools for security monitoring and incident management.
• Experience with EDR solutions to protect endpoints and respond to threats.
• Knowledge of AI-driven triage systems to enhance incident response efficiency.
• Familiarity with various security operations methodologies and best practices.

Practical notes

Plaid offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and a 401(k) plan. Compensation may also include equity and/or commission based on the specific role. As an equal opportunity employer, Plaid encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds, even if their experience does not completely align with the job description. This commitment to diversity is integral to Plaid's culture and mission.

About the company

Plaid is a financial technology company that builds a data transfer network that powers fintech and digital finance products. Founded in 2013, Plaid connects applications to users' bank accounts.