Case Study: Scaling an Offensive Security Function with a High-Impact Penetration Tester Contractor

Client Challenge

A critical financial services organization needed an Offensive Security Red Teamer / Penetration Tester to support a newly established team of five and help mature their penetration testing function.

This role required hands-on expertise in network and web application testing, while also building repeatable methodologies, validating remediation efforts, and mentoring team members.

With ongoing system changes and new feature releases, failing to secure the right hire risked unidentified vulnerabilities, inconsistent testing practices, and gaps in security coverage.

Our Approach: The TRUST™ Hiring Model

Using our TRUST™ methodology, we identified a contractor who could deliver immediate impact:

Targeted Intake

Defined success as both technical execution and function-building

Role Alignment

Prioritized real-world pentesting, not just theoretical findings

Unique Talent Sourcing

Engaged highly specialized Red Team professionals

Strategic Screening

Assessed ability to identify exploitable, high-impact vulnerabilities

Trusted Placement

Positioned the role as an opportunity to shape a growing security function

The Candidate

We placed an experienced Offensive Security professional with Penetration testing and Red Teaming experience, who holds multiple cybersecurity certifications and stood out for his ability to:

  • Focus reporting on exploitable risk
  • Build repeatable testing methodologies and processes
  • Adapt quickly to new systems and features
  • Provide mentorship to elevate the team

The Outcome

He quickly became a key contributor, improving the consistency and quality of penetration testing while helping mature the function. He performed important security risk evaluations from the onset, and completed multiple penetration testing engagements, identifying business critical vulnerabilities while providing guidance towards their remediation. Due to his impact, the client was interested in extending him to a 12-month engagement, with consideration for contract-to-hire.

Impact at a Glance

Immediate impact within a new pentest function

Improved vulnerability identification and reporting quality

Established scalable testing methodologies

Elevated team capability through mentorship

Offer extended to 12-month contract with potential conversion

Client Feedback

“For anyone in need, I can personally vouch for Corie and her team. Utmost professional who will work very hard on your behalf.”

– Data Management Candidate

“Her willingness to take the time to understand my unique staffing requirements has consistently resulted in success across multiple projects.”

– Pharmaceutical Client

“Personable, professional and dependable. I could not imagine how I could have grown my own company without her talent for finding great candidates.”

– Employee Benefits Client

“She is credit to your team and an absolute delight to have worked with. She is smart, easy to talk to, and an advocate for both the company and the candidate.”

– Technical Operations Candidate

“I can tell you have a high success rate and focused approach.”

– Cybersecurity Candidate

“She always understands and has a pulse on the current recruiting climate regarding technology positions. I trust her thoroughly in vetting and presenting high quality candidates.”

– Distributor Client

“She always dedicates the time needed to understand the needs of my company.”

– Financial Services Client

“I really appreciate your professionalism and keeping me fully updated throughout the process. I would love to continue collaborating with you on any other exciting leadership roles.”

– Product Owner Candidate

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