Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Senior Data Protection & Privacy Specialist to support the organization's data protection and privacy governance initiatives. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing day-to-day privacy operations, conducting privacy risk assessments, reviewing personal data management processes, and supporting investigations and complaint handling related to personal data protection.

The role requires a strong understanding of data protection regulations, cybersecurity principles, privacy governance, and emerging technologies to ensure the organization's compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Perform day-to-day operational activities related to data protection, including receiving and handling complaints, investigations, and privacy-related inquiries.
Review and assess Personal Data Management Systems to ensure compliance with applicable privacy requirements and best practices.
Conduct Personal Data Privacy Risk Assessments and provide recommendations to mitigate identified risks.
Evaluate requests involving the processing of sensitive or special-category personal data and submit recommendations to management for approval.
Execute and support procedures related to privacy complaints, investigations, and incident handling.
Assist in ensuring compliance with organizational policies and applicable data protection regulations.
Prepare reports, documentation, and recommendations related to privacy assessments and investigations.
Collaborate with internal stakeholders to promote privacy awareness and support continuous improvement of data protection practices.

Requirements

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Information Security, Cybersecurity, or a related discipline.

Professional Certifications

Candidates holding one or more of the following certifications will be preferred:

Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM)
Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP)
Equivalent Data Protection or Privacy certifications

Experience

Minimum 8 years of relevant professional experience in data protection, privacy, information security, cybersecurity, compliance, or related fields.

Required Skills & Knowledge

Strong knowledge of data protection and privacy principles.
Understanding of cybersecurity concepts, cyber threats, and vulnerabilities.
Knowledge of data protection laws, regulations, governance frameworks, policies, and procedures.
Familiarity with Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, and other emerging technologies and their impact on privacy.
Technical understanding of computer networking concepts, network protocols, and network security methodologies.
Experience conducting privacy risk assessments and supporting privacy compliance activities.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, documentation, and report-writing skills.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high level of accuracy and professionalism.

Language Requirements

English: Required (written and spoken).
Arabic: Preferred but not mandatory.

Additional

Required Skills and Knowledge:

Strong understanding of cybersecurity and privacy principles.
Familiarity with cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
Knowledge of laws, policies, procedures, and governance related to data protection and privacy.
Awareness of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and blockchain.
Technical expertise in computer networking concepts, protocols, and network security methodologies.
Excellent communication skills.