Chief Operating Officer (COO) Cybersecurity (Technical Background) - Relocate to Dubai, UAE

Job Summary:We are looking for a results-oriented Chief Operating Officer (COO) with a strong technical background in cybersecurity to lead operations and drive scalable execution across our company’s strategic goals. Based in Dubai, the COO will be responsible for aligning day-to-day operations with long-term business objectives in cybersecurity services, consulting, and managed security offerings.The ideal candidate combines deep hands-on technical knowledge in cyber and IT systems with a strong track record in operational leadership, preferably in startups, consulting firms, or MSSPs.Key Responsibilities:1. Operational Leadership● Lead and optimize company-wide operations, including service delivery, projects, HR, finance, administration, and client success.● Translate the strategic vision of the CEO into operational action plans and KPIs.● Build efficient, scalable systems and workflows across all departments.2. Technical Oversight (Cybersecurity)● Collaborate closely with the CTO, CISO, and tech teams to ensure cybersecurity services are delivered with consistency, quality, and compliance.● Oversee the implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of cybersecurity frameworks such as ISO 27001, SOC 2, NIST 800-53, MITRE ATT&CK, and Zero Trust Architecture to ensure compliance, efficiency, and scalability of the company’s Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) operations.● Ensure that these frameworks are embedded effectively within the company’s managed security services to drive compliance, operational efficiency, and scalable service delivery.● Monitor and enhance technical delivery performance across cybersecurity functions including penetration testing, GRC advisory, SOC/MDR operations, cloud security, and incident response.● Establish internal benchmarking standards to assess and improve the maturity level of cybersecurity offerings.3. People & Organizational Growth● Build and scale cross-functional teams, from technical to operational support functions.● Develop hiring roadmaps, performance management processes, and training programs aligned with business needs.● Champion a culture of accountability, security-first mindset, and operational excellence.4. Risk, Compliance & Governance● Ensure compliance with UAE laws, Free Zone regulations (DMCC, DIFC, etc.), and cybersecurity frameworks.● Support audit readiness (ISO 27001, GDPR, NCA UAE), internal controls, and policy development.● Oversee operational risk registers, vendor risk assessments, and internal security SOPs.5. Finance & Commercial Support● Work with the finance team to manage budgeting, cost efficiency, vendor contracts, and pricing models.● Oversee proposals, SLAs, and delivery schedules for client contracts.● Monitor profitability, utilization, and client satisfaction metrics