Senior Data Governance & Classification Specialist

Role Overview

This role entails providing expert technical and strategic advisory to government bodies, aiding them in constructing comprehensive data asset registries and applying classification protocols effectively.

Primary Responsibilities

• Advise government organizations on building and managing data asset registers alongside implementing appropriate data classification policies.
• Create clear guidelines and toolkits that empower government staff to independently and efficiently classify data.
• Monitor compliance levels with national data classification policies and deliver regular performance evaluations to decision makers.
• Lead state-wide initiatives addressing cybersecurity risks caused by improper sensitive data classification.
• Ensure governmental policies align with national data protection and privacy laws while identifying data sovereignty considerations.
• Assess and recommend global technical data classification solutions suited to the country's infrastructure.
• Organize workshops and conferences at the national level to share knowledge and tackle challenges related to data classification projects.

Contract Details

The position is contracted for 12 months with potential for extension depending on departmental needs.

Qualifications & Experience

• Possess a bachelor’s degree in Information Security, Computer Science, or Management Information Systems.
• A master’s or doctoral degree in Data Governance or Public Cybersecurity Policy is highly preferred.
• Hold certifications such as CDMP (Certified Data Management Professional) at an advanced level, CGEIT (Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT), CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor), or ISO/IEC 27001 Lead Auditor/Implementer.
• Have at least 10 years of experience in data governance and security, including a minimum of 4 years engaged with regulatory frameworks, national policies, or advising major government institutions.
• English proficiency is mandatory; Arabic language skills are desirable but not compulsory.

Additional Requirements

• In-depth knowledge of local data privacy laws and national cybersecurity standards is essential.
• Strong consulting capabilities with proven ability to influence and negotiate with senior government leaders.
• Strategic aptitude to associate data classification with wider national objectives like digital transformation and digital sovereignty.
• Familiarity with government excellence frameworks such as EFQM to ensure top-tier advisory service quality.