Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) - Elite Investment Platform - Abu Dhabi - Up to $530k Base (Tax-Free)
Durlston Partners is working with a premier, global investment platform to find a hands-on Chief Information Security Officer. Based in Abu Dhabi, this foundational role requires you to build and scale the firm's core information security capabilities from the ground up as the platform evolves to support institutional clients.
What You’ll Do
- Strategy & Governance: Define the global cybersecurity and operational resilience strategy, establishing frameworks aligned with NIST, ISO 27001, and DORA across US, EU, Middle East, and APAC operations.
- Cloud & AI Security: Embed secure-by-design practices into cloud infrastructure, APIs, and AI/ML systems, partnering directly with engineering to integrate security into the SDLC.
- Risk & Operations: Lead threat modelling, incident response, and BC/DR planning. Build out core capabilities like IAM, vulnerability management, and vendor risk management.
- Leadership: Act as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on cyber risk, while building and leading a high-impact global security team.
What They’re Looking For
- 10+ years of cybersecurity experience with a proven track record of building and maturing security programs in cloud-native, application-driven environments.
- Strong leadership background within fintech, investment platforms, or heavily regulated financial environments.
- Deep technical expertise in cloud security (AWS, Azure, GCP), modern application security, data protection, and AI governance frameworks.
- Experience navigating multi-jurisdictional compliance. Professional certifications (CISSP, CISM, CISA) are highly preferred.
What They Offer
- Top-Tier Compensation: Up to $530,000 USD Base Salary + Discretionary Bonus (100% tax-free).
- Relocation & Visa: Full visa sponsorship with all associated costs covered by the company.
- Premium Benefits: Comprehensive family medical/life insurance, 30 days holiday (+ UAE public holidays), and an annual education allowance for up to three dependent children.
If you are interested, please apply! Alternatively, feel free to reach out to david@durlstonpartners.com for a confidential discussion.
