Open to opportunities

Paresh Mandowara

@pareshmandowara

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Information Security leader with 17+ years of experience in GRC.

India

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What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that allows me to leverage my extensive experience in information security and compliance, ideally in a dynamic environment that values strategic leadership and innovation.

I am an Information Security leader with over 17 years of experience specializing in governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) programs across the BFSI sectors in India, UAE, and Europe. My expertise lies in designing enterprise-wide security architectures and aligning global regulatory frameworks with business strategies. I have a proven track record of influencing board-level decisions and driving risk reduction, regulatory readiness, and operational resilience.

At Mastercard, I spearheaded GRC initiatives that reduced compliance cycle time by 30% and strengthened audit performance with zero major findings for three consecutive years. My strategic approach to security governance has improved executive-level visibility and secured funding for key cybersecurity initiatives. I have successfully directed ISO 27001 implementation and developed a unified enterprise resilience strategy that enhances organizational readiness for operational disruptions.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Director - Information Security

Current

Mastercard

Nov 2016 - Present (8 years 6 months)

Spearheaded Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) initiatives, developing scalable compliance processes aligned with global regulatory standards like NYDFS 500 and RBI PSS. Designed and implemented a unified information security governance framework, strengthening audit performance with zero major findings for three consecutive years. Directed end-to-end ISO 27001:2013 implementation, achieving c

Risk Management Regulatory Compliance ISO 27001 NYDFS RBI PSS Business Continuity Disaster Recovery Crisis Management

Information Security Officer

Allianz Managed Operations & Services

Oct 2013 - Oct 2016 (3 years)

Served as the Information Security Officer for Allianz Managed Operations & Services of Belgium and the Netherlands. Responsible for overseeing end-to-end information security for these entities, ensuring alignment with Allianz Group security policies.

Information Security Security Policies Risk Management Compliance

Consultant - Information Security

3i Infotech

Jun 2010 - Jun 2013 (3 years)

Tasked with overseeing the Information Security function at First Gulf Bank as a consultant. Responsibilities included managing Information Security Governance, ISO 27001 compliance, Data Leakage Prevention, Vulnerability Assessments, and Risk Assessments.

Information Security Management ISO 27001 Vulnerability Assessment Risk Assessment Security Consulting

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Symbiosis International University

MBA, Information System Security

Focused on Information System Security, gaining expertise in securing complex information systems and managing security risks. Developed a strong foundation in information security governance and compliance.

Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya

Bachelor of Engineering, Computer Science

Studied Computer Science, building a foundational understanding of computing principles and software development. Gained practical skills in various programming languages and system design.