Director of Information Security and Compliance

As the Director of Information Security and Compliance, you will be responsible for maintaining a robust information security management framework, leading a dynamic team, implementing compliance programs aligned with industry standards, and overseeing automated security operations. You will also prepare detailed compliance documentation, manage audit processes, and act as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders.

To be eligible for the Director of Information Security and Compliance role, candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, with a Master's degree preferred. Additionally, relevant certifications like CISSP, CISM, or CISO are crucial, alongside extensive experience in information security and compliance frameworks such as SOC reports, ISO 27000 series, and GDPR.

In this role, you will play a key collaborative role by working closely with various departments, particularly the product team. Ensuring that security and compliance are integrated into product development practices will be a key focus, allowing us to build secure innovations while maintaining compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Our company boasts a flexible and hybrid work environment, which combines remote working with at least three days onsite in our Amsterdam office. New hires can expect to be part of a fast-growing scale-up with a friendly, diverse team that fosters individual growth and collaboration.

Alongside an excellent salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including 28 vacation days, a pension plan, stock participation, inclusive daily lunch service prepared by our in-house chef, mental health support through OpenUp, and regular team social events to foster a vibrant company culture.

When developing an information security management system, I begin by aligning it with the organization’s strategic goals. I conduct thorough risk assessments, identify compliance requirements, and establish policies and procedures tailored to mitigate identified risks while incorporating automated tools for efficiency.

I have extensive experience managing compliance frameworks such as SOC reports, ISO 27001, and GDPR. I ensure that all processes align with regulatory standards and lead comprehensive audits to evaluate their effectiveness, continuously updating practices based on regulatory changes.

I depend on clear, concise communication tailored to the audience. Utilizing various formats, I ensure that complex security policies are easy to comprehend through training sessions, workshops, and engaging documentation designed to boost understanding and adherence across all teams.

I subscribe to industry publications, participate in webinars, and attend security conferences regularly. Networking with peers in the industry also helps me stay informed of emerging threats and evolving compliance requirements, enabling a proactive approach to security.

In a previous role, I led the response to a data breach. We formed a rapid response team that assessed the impact, communicated transparently with stakeholders, and developed a remediation plan that included enhancing security measures and training. This comprehensive approach not only resolved the incident but reinforced our security posture.

I recommend tools such as Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) platforms like RSA Archer, as well as automated auditing tools like AuditBoard. These can streamline compliance processes, making it easier to manage policies, track audits, and generate reports efficiently.

Leading a security and compliance team requires a balance of strong leadership and collaborative spirit. I prioritize establishing a clear vision, encouraging open communication, and providing continuous training. This approach fosters a culture of shared responsibility and empowerment among team members.

I have led numerous auditing processes by preparing comprehensive documentation, facilitating auditor interactions, and conducting pre-audit internal reviews. My approach is holistic, ensuring that both compliance areas and security measures are stringently evaluated and improved based on audit findings.

Risk management is central to information security. It involves identifying potential risks, assessing their impact, and prioritizing them for mitigation. A robust risk management framework guides our security strategies, ensuring all efforts are focused on minimizing vulnerabilities and enhancing overall compliance.

Handling conflicts requires negotiation and understanding. I engage in discussions with stakeholders to align security practices with business objectives, demonstrating how effective security enhances business outcomes, and striving for solutions that protect data while enabling organizational growth.