Principal, Cyber & Digital Safeguards (London, GB)

Opportunity Review: Digital Safeguards and Cybersecurity Specialist at the EBRD (London)

This fixed-term contract opportunity (2 years) at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in London presents a compelling prospect for seasoned professionals passionate about the intersection of digital transformation, cybersecurity, and development finance. If you're looking to contribute your expertise to a globally impactful organization, this role offers a unique platform to shape the digital future of various sectors.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Work: This role is central to the EBRD's mission of enabling digital access, supporting companies and governments, and establishing robust governance. You'll be directly contributing to the implementation of the Bank's Digital Approach, making a tangible difference in regions where the EBRD invests.
• Strategic Influence: You will be instrumental in embedding digital safeguards and cybersecurity principles into the Bank's strategic initiatives and client advisory work. This offers a chance to influence policy and practice at a significant institutional level.
• Diverse Exposure: The role involves screening banking projects for digital risks, providing cyber advice, and developing mitigation measures. This breadth of responsibility ensures you'll engage with a wide array of challenges and learn from diverse projects across different sectors.
• Professional Development: The opportunity to lead technical discussions, develop new advisory products, and support upskilling efforts within the Bank suggests a strong emphasis on continuous learning and growth. Staying at the forefront of cybersecurity and digital safeguards developments will be integral to your success.
• Collaborative Environment: You'll work alongside a diverse team of experts from financial, political, public, and private sectors. The EBRD's commitment to inclusion, innovation, trust, and responsibility fosters a collaborative and dynamic work environment.
• Hybrid Working: The Bank embraces a hybrid workplace, offering flexibility to teams and individuals. This promotes a healthy work-life balance and trusts employees to deliver results effectively.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Fixed-Term Contract: This is a fixed-term contract for 2 years. Candidates should be aware of the duration of the engagement and consider their long-term career aspirations accordingly.
• Depth of Expertise Required: The role demands a strong foundation in cybersecurity and digital risk assessment. Highly desirable qualifications include cybersecurity or privacy professional certifications, experience in assessing digital risks, auditing digital safeguard controls, and implementing these for large organizations.
• Sector-Specific Experience: While not strictly mandatory, prior experience in digital risk within the Energy (TSOs, DSOs, Renewable energy), National Transportation infrastructure, or Financial institutions sectors will be a significant advantage.
• Technical Acumen: A strong technical understanding of IT, OT, and cloud environments is beneficial. The ability to analyze digital safeguards at a technical level, understand network typologies, and recommend both policy and technical controls is crucial.
• Communication and Stakeholder Management: The ability to articulate complex observations and arguments concisely and convincingly to both internal and external counterparts is paramount. Leading discussions and shaping projects will require excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Multitasking and Deadline Management: The role involves leading multiple and wide-ranging tasks concurrently, often under tight deadlines. Strong organizational skills and the ability to deliver quality outputs consistently are essential.
• Language Skills: While fluent English is a must, knowledge of another language such as Russian, French, or Arabic would be a desirable asset, opening up further opportunities within the EBRD's diverse operational regions.

Guidance for Your Career Path:

This position is ideal for a cybersecurity and digital risk professional who is eager to apply their skills in a development finance context. If you thrive in complex environments, enjoy contributing to policy and strategic initiatives, and want to make a significant positive impact on global digital inclusion and security, this role offers an exceptional opportunity. It's a chance to gain invaluable experience in international development, broaden your understanding of digital risks across various critical sectors, and contribute to shaping the digital landscape of emerging economies.