Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Information Protection & Data Security Project Lead to spearhead the design, deployment, and adoption of cutting‑edge data governance, classification, and security solutions—specifically Microsoft Purview and Varonis DatAdvantage—across the organization of our client in Qatar. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong program management expertise, capable of driving adoption, change management and stakeholder communication to ensure a seamless implementation and sustained operational success.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Planning & Architecture: Define the end-to-end data protection framework aligned with organizational goals and Qatari regulatory requirements (e.g., QFCRA, QFC DPD). Develop solution architectures for Microsoft Purview (data catalog, classification, Information Protection policies) and Varonis DatAdvantage (Discovery, File Access Governance, Threat detection).
2. Project & Program Management: Manage project lifecycle from requirements gathering, design, testing, deployment, to operations handover, using best practices (e.g., PMI, Prince2, Agile). Coordinate cross‑functional teams (IT, Legal, Compliance, Business Units) and third‑party vendors. Track milestones, budget, risks, and deliver regular status reports to executive sponsors.
3. Technical Implementation: Lead technical workshops for data discovery, classification rules, sensitivity labeling, and access reviews. Oversee integration of Microsoft Purview with M365, Azure services, and other existing solution DLP/IRM, SoC, SIEM, ITSM, etc. Configure Varonis Data Classification Engine, permissions auditing, and automated alerting workflows.
4. Change Management & Communication: Develop and execute a change management strategy: stakeholder mapping, impact analysis, training plans, and adoption campaigns. Create clear, concise communications (presentations, user guides, FAQs) in English. Facilitate executive briefings, steering committee sessions, and user‑group workshops.
5. Governance & Compliance: Establish and enforce data governance policies, retention schedules, and escalation procedures.
6. Operational Readiness & Support: Define roles, responsibilities, and runbook for long‑term support. Mentor and upskill internal teams to transition to steady‑state operations.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Microsoft Purview: Hands‑on experience with data cataloging, sensitivity labels, Information Protection policies, activity monitoring.
• Varonis DatAdvantage: Proven track record in deploying access governance, data classification, anomaly detection, and automated remediation.
• Data Security & Compliance: In‑depth knowledge of data protection standards (ISO 27001, GDPR, PDPL Qatar) and DLP/IRM best practices.
• Cloud & Infrastructure: Familiarity with Microsoft 365, Azure, on‑premises Windows file servers, and hybrid environments.
• Program & Change Management PMP, Prince2 Practitioner, or equivalent project‑management certification. Devise and lead change management initiatives. Excellent stakeholder engagement, presentation, and facilitation skills.
• Leadership & Strategic Vision Minimum 8–10 years of experience in information security/data governance roles, with at least 5 years leading complex, multi‑vendor projects. Demonstrated ability to translate business objectives into technical roadmaps.
• Education & Language Bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, Information Security, or related field. Fluent English: Arabic proficiency is a strong advantage.

Desired Personal Attributes

• Strategic Thinker: Ability to align technical solutions with organizational and regulatory objectives in Qatar.
• Collaborative Leader: Skilled at building consensus across diverse teams and cultures.
• Effective Communicator: Capable of tailoring messages for technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Adaptable & Proactive: Comfortable working in a dynamic environment with evolving requirements.