Operational Technology Lead - Cybersecurity

The Opportunity:

The Operational Technology Leader (OT Leader) of Cybersecurity will be responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining robust cybersecurity plans, aligned with Maple Leaf’s Cybersecurity Strategy, to safeguard Maple Leaf Foods’ Operational Technology assets, including manufacturing equipment, industrial control systems (ICS), and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. The role ensures alignment between operational needs and enterprise security standards and operational requirements, balancing safety, productivity, and security. This position plays a key role in driving collaboration between the Engineering and Information Security teams, ensuring that security measures are integrated seamlessly into OT environments while adhering to regulatory requirements and industry best practices.

Any MLF team member interested in being considered for this role are encouraged to apply online by March 20. Applications received beyond that date are not guaranteed consideration.

Snapshot of a Day-in-the-Life:

The core accountabilities for this position include:

Cybersecurity Strategy for OT

• Develop and execute the enterprise strategy tailored to Maple Leaf Foods’ OT environment
• Collaborate and align with Engineering to enable OT security goals informed by broader enterprise cybersecurity initiatives

Risk Assessment and Vulnerability Management

• Leverage the enterprise vulnerability management program, to ensure vulnerabilities are identified and recommend mitigation strategies
• Develop a risk prioritization framework to address critical gaps effectively

Incident Response and Recovery

• Manage OT incident response procedures, ensuring rapid containment and recovery
• Partner with Information Security to integrate OT incident processes into enterprise-wide incident response plans

Access Management and Network Segmentation

• Implement robust access control measures for OT systems, ensuring secure and appropriate access
• Oversee the segmentation of OT networks to limit the spread of threats, and reduce risk

Vendor and Third-Party Security

• Assess and manage cybersecurity risks associated with third-party vendors, contractors, and suppliers within the OT environment
• Ensure that vendor equipment and software comply with security standards before deployment, and security is operationalized effectively for proper incident response

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Act as a liaison between Engineering and Information Security to ensure cohesive OT security measures
• Support project teams in embedding security within OT projects and initiatives
• Contribute and implement security measures discussed with the IT/OT Governance Committee

Awareness and Training

• Develop and deliver OT cybersecurity training programs for Engineering teams and plant operations
• Foster a culture of cybersecurity awareness across all levels of operations

What You’ll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Information Security, Computer Science, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred)
• Minimum 7 years of experience in OT cybersecurity or a related field, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Deep knowledge of OT systems (e.g., ICS, SCADA) and their specific challenges.
• Strong collaboration skills
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Collaborative leader adept at bridging technical and non-technical teams
• Familiarity with relevant standards and frameworks (e.g., NIST CSF, IEC 62443, ISO 27001)
• Strong understanding of industrial protocols (e.g., Modbus, OPC, Ethernet/IP)
• Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams and communicate complex concepts effectively

What We Offer at Maple Leaf Foods:

• Being part of a high-performance, people-focused company that has an inspiring and unique vision to become the most sustainable protein company on earth, and a deep commitment to sustainable protein across North America.
• An inclusive company culture and a work environment that keeps our people safe, rewards excellence, and empowers everyone to learn and contribute their best.
• A hybrid work model that embraces remote work for eligible roles, helping team members achieve work-life balance—combining the best of both spending time working remotely, benefitting from focus time, and purposeful collaboration in the office setting.
• Competitive Health and Wellness benefits that offer flexibility to meet your individual or family needs, including programs focused on improving mental health and wellbeing. These benefits start on your first day of employment.
• Defined Contribution Pension Plan with company matching that starts on your first day of employment.
• Learning and development opportunities, including workshops, ‘speaker series’ events, and resources that allow you to develop your skills and progress your career.
• Comprehensive tuition reimbursement program that supports continuous learning and development of our team members through investment in eligible degrees, diplomas, professional certification, or trades programs.
• Supporting our deep commitment to community impact, we offer up to two paid days annually to volunteer at a cause of your choice.

About Us:

We’re a carbon neutral food company on a purposeful journey to Raise the Good in Food through better nutrition, safer food and workplaces, more humane animal care, and environmental sustainability efforts that protect our planet. We care about our communities and commit to reducing food insecurity in Canada. Join us on the journey. Let’s build a better future, together.

We’re passionate about food. For more than 100 years, we’ve made delicious, healthy protein that Canadians love under iconic national and regional brands, like Maple Leaf, Schneiders, and Greenfield Natural Meat Co. We’re on a journey to become the most sustainable protein company – not just in Canada – but on earth.

A diverse and inclusive work environment

Championing diversity and inclusion is a critical component to advancing our collective purpose and vision and living the Maple Leaf Leadership Values. We believe in building, investing in, recognizing, and rewarding remarkable people who value an inclusive workplace, embrace all forms of diversity, and commit to including every voice in our collaborative environment. We’re so much stronger when we know we’re accepted and valued for who we are and what we each bring to the workplace.

We embrace a strong, values-based culture

Our eight Leadership Values are our north star. They guide the decisions we make for all our stakeholders: our consumers, our customers, our people, our communities, our shareholders, and the environment.

• Doing What’s Right
• Shared Value
• High Performance
• Diverse and Inclusive Teams
• Disciplined Decision Making
• Our Accountability
• Intense Curiosity
• Transparency and Humility

We thank all applicants for their interest in exploring employment opportunities with Maple Leaf Foods; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Applicants may be subject to a background check and must meet the security criteria designated for the position.

Accommodation is available upon request for applicants with disabilities in the recruitment and assessment process and when hired; please contact our Talent Attraction Team at accommodations@mapleleaf.com.