Case Study: Miguel Reclaimed His Cybersecurity Leadership and Landed a 6-Figure Role—On His Own Terms
Miguel came in stuck between identities: after leading a startup as CEO, he thought the only path forward was chasing another unicorn. The problem? He was overlooking his true bread-and-butter value—cybersecurity leadership. Through our work, he shifted his mindset, rebuilt confidence, and clarified what he really wanted: a role that combined his technical depth and entrepreneurial streak.
He turned down a safe W2 CISO offer at a healthcare entity and instead said yes to a consulting leadership role that allowed him to plant the West Coast flag for a national firm, double their Bay Area presence, and start building out a practice from scratch. Today he’s not only in a 6-figure role, but actively shaping the market, building a team, and finally excited to wake up every morning.
Major Quotes & Takeaways
Quotes
“The largest positive change for me was changing my mindset—and having a structure to reengage professionally.”
“I realized I was too entrepreneurial to go back to a Fortune 500. I needed a role that made me want to get up every day.”
“I actually turned down a steady W2 CISO role because I knew it wouldn’t make me happy. This new role lets me build the practice.”
“Who else is going to believe in you but you? And if you don’t believe in yourself—that’s where you need to start.”
“If you’re going to shift careers, go all in. Don’t half-leap.”
Takeaways
Mindset shift is everything. Moving from tunnel vision (must be a CEO) to clarity (blend expertise + entrepreneurship).
Breadth → leverage. Miguel’s background let him credibly pivot into building a West Coast practice.
Choose joy, not just safety. He turned down a stable in-house job for a riskier, more aligned opportunity—and it paid off.
Entrepreneurial leaders thrive on creation. Building teams, planting flags, and owning a region gave him the excitement he was missing.
Confidence fuels risk-taking. He invested the time to evaluate risks, prepare for challenges, and step into an opportunity few would have had the courage to take.
Want to land a 6-figure leadership role that excites you to get up every morning—instead of settling for a safe but unfulfilling paycheck? I’ll help you shift your mindset, clarify your true value, and open doors to opportunities that fit who you are.
Option 1: Leadership Presence
Step into your full power as a leader.
Apply now for a Leadership Presence Audit Strategy Session and start making the powerful change that sets you apart.
[Apply for Leadership Presence →]
Option 2: Career Momentum & Offers
It’s time for your career breakthrough.
Book a Career Momentum Strategy Session today and let’s build the opportunities and offers that have been waiting for you.