Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) Confidential — Abu Dhabi, UAE

About the Organisation

A well-established single-family office based in Abu Dhabi is seeking an experienced Chief Information Security Officer to join its leadership team. Due to the nature of the principal's interests, the family office does not disclose its identity at this stage of the recruitment process. The office oversees a diversified portfolio of investments, assets, and private interests across multiple jurisdictions.

The Role

Reporting directly to senior executive, the CISO will take full ownership of the office's information security strategy, ensuring the protection of sensitive financial, legal, and personal data across all systems and jurisdictions. This is a high-trust, senior appointment suited to a confident and visible security leader who can build and run a function largely from the ground up.

Key Responsibilities

Design, implement, and continuously improve an enterprise-wide information security framework tailored to the unique needs of a private family office
Protect sensitive financial, legal, and personal data across all systems and communication channels
Assess and manage cybersecurity risks across the office's investment operations, real estate holdings, and third-party relationships
Establish and enforce security policies, protocols, and incident response procedures
Oversee the security of all digital assets, including cloud environments, private networks, and mobile devices
Manage relationships with external security vendors, auditors, and technology partners
Monitor the global threat landscape and provide regular risk briefings to senior stakeholders
Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory frameworks across all operating jurisdictions
Advise on personal digital security for principal family members and key staff

Candidate Profile

Minimum 12–15 years of progressive experience in information security, with at least 3–5 years in a senior leadership role
Prior experience within a family office, private wealth management firm, financial institution, or high-net-worth private environment strongly preferred
Relevant certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CISA, or equivalent
Deep understanding of cybersecurity frameworks including ISO 27001, NIST, and GDPR where applicable
Strong knowledge of UAE regulatory requirements and regional cybersecurity standards is an advantage
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to translate complex technical risks into clear executive briefings
Fluency in English required; Arabic language skills are an advantage

Personal Attributes

High integrity and a strong sense of professional ethics
Confident, proactive, and comfortable operating in a lean private structure without a large corporate support system
Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence and engage senior stakeholders
Long-term mindset with a genuine interest in building something enduring

Compensation & Benefits

A highly competitive, tax-free remuneration package will be offered commensurate with experience, including a performance-based component and benefits appropriate to a senior hire in Abu Dhabi.

Durlston Partners

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