Program Director - Cybersecurity

Help AG is looking for an experienced Program Director - Cybersecurity with expertise in network security and broader cybersecurity domains. This is a client-facing role, requiring strong leadership, strategic planning, and execution capabilities to drive cybersecurity initiatives and ensure compliance with industry standards. The ideal candidate will be responsible for managing end-to-end cybersecurity programs, engaging with key stakeholders, and ensuring robust security frameworks are in place.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of enterprise-wide cybersecurity programs focused on network security, governance, risk management, and compliance.

• Define cybersecurity policies, procedures, and frameworks in alignment with business objectives and regulatory requirements.

• Develop and maintain roadmaps for security initiatives, ensuring alignment with business goals and industry best practices.

• Drive the implementation of cybersecurity controls across on-premises and cloud environments to safeguard critical infrastructure.

• Manage cyber risk assessments, security audits, and vulnerability management programs to proactively identify and mitigate risks.

• Establish KPIs and performance metrics to measure the effectiveness of cybersecurity initiatives.

• Ensure security awareness and training programs are in place to educate employees on cyber risks and best practices.

• Oversee network security architecture, firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS), VPNs, and endpoint security solutions.

• Ensure continuous monitoring, detection, and mitigation of security threats across network infrastructure.

• Drive the adoption of next-generation security solutions, including zero-trust architecture, cloud security controls, and advanced threat protection.

• Collaborate with IT, DevOps, and security teams to strengthen network resilience and minimize attack surfaces.

• Develop and lead incident response plans to ensure timely investigation and remediation of cybersecurity incidents.

• Establish threat intelligence and monitoring frameworks to proactively detect and respond to emerging cyber threats.

• Oversee forensic analysis, root cause investigations, and post-incident reviews to enhance security postures.

• Ensure adherence to industry security standards and regulations such as ISO 27001, NIST, GDPR, UAE IA, and other relevant frameworks.

• Conduct regular security audits, gap assessments, and risk analysis to maintain compliance.

• Partner with legal, risk, and compliance teams to align cybersecurity strategies with regulatory requirements.

• Act as the primary point of contact for clients and executive leadership, ensuring effective communication and alignment of security strategies.

• Collaborate with external vendors, service providers, and industry partners to enhance cybersecurity capabilities.

• Manage security contracts, evaluate vendors, and recommend security solutions that align with organizational needs.

• Stay updated with emerging cybersecurity threats, trends, and best practices, ensuring proactive security enhancements.

• Lead research and implementation of new security technologies to improve the organization’s cyber resilience.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement by identifying and implementing process enhancements within cybersecurity programs.

Qualifications & Skills

• 18-20 years of experience in cybersecurity, network security, and program management.

• Proven track record of managing large-scale cybersecurity programs and working in client-facing roles.

• Strong expertise in network security technologies, including firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs, endpoint security, and cloud security solutions.

• In-depth knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks, risk management methodologies, and compliance regulations.

• Experience with SIEM solutions, security analytics, incident response, and digital forensics.

• Hands-on expertise in security architecture, penetration testing, threat intelligence, and security monitoring.

• Familiarity with cloud security controls (AWS, Azure, GCP) and zero-trust security principles.

• Industry-recognized certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CISA, CEH, CRISC, or equivalent are highly preferred.

• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence decision-making at executive levels.

• Ability to work in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment, managing multiple security initiatives simultaneously.

Benefits

• Health insurance with one of the leading global providers for medical insurance.

• Career progression and growth through challenging projects and work.

• Employee engagement and wellness campaigns activities throughout the year.

• Excellent learning and development opportunities.

• Annual flights tickets.

• Inclusive and diverse working environment.

• Flexible/Hybrid working environment.

• Open door policy.

About Us

Help AG is the cybersecurity arm of e& enterprise (formerly Etisalat Digital) and provides leading enterprise businesses and governments across the Middle East with strategic consultancy combined with tailored information security services and solutions that address their diverse requirements, enabling them to evolve securely with a competitive edge.

Present in the Middle East since 2004, Help AG was strategically acquired by e& (formerly Etisalat Group) in Feb 2020, hence creating a cybersecurity and digital transformation powerhouse in the region.

Help AG has firmly established itself as the region's trusted IT security advisor by remaining vendor-agnostic, trustworthy, independent, and cybersecurity focused. With best-of-breed technologies from industry-leading vendor partners, expertly qualified service delivery teams and a state-of-the-art consulting practice, Help AG delivers unmatched value to its customers by strengthening their cyber defences and safeguarding their business.