Information Security Specialist - Data Protection

Overview and Qualifications

We are seeking a skilled Information Security professional specializing in Data Protection to join our team on a contract basis in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. Candidates should have an engineering degree and over five years of experience managing data protection requirements in the BFSI sector, both locally and internationally.

Applicants must possess practical expertise in enforcing data protection laws and carry in-depth knowledge of regulations such as CBUAE Consumer Data Protection, UAE Privacy Laws, and relevant global data protection standards. Preferred candidates will hold certifications like CIPP/E, CIPM, CIPT, or CDPO. A solid foundation in information security and IT systems is critical.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement and ensure adherence to the bank’s policies and procedures aligned with applicable data protection laws and advise business units on privacy and data safeguarding matters.
• Lead and sustain cross-functional teams to coordinate data protection initiatives, current projects, and foster regulatory compliance awareness within the bank.
• Perform monitoring, compliance testing reviews, and audits related to data protection and privacy.
• Assess the current data protection framework, identify gaps or non-compliance issues, and oversee corrective actions.
• Maintain a detailed inventory of personal data holdings and related data processing activities, documenting collection, usage, and sharing mechanisms.
• Collaborate with contracts, vendor management, compliance, and business departments to ensure third-party agreements meet necessary privacy standards.
• Champion data security and protection culture bank-wide through ongoing awareness initiatives.
• Conduct training sessions for staff across multiple business units who manage or process personal data.
• Coordinate with external vendors and auditors during data protection assessments.