Open to opportunities

Serdar Colak

@serdarcolak

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Innovative IT and cybersecurity executive with strategic leadership experience.

Germany

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What I'm looking for

I seek a role that fosters innovation and strategic growth in cybersecurity.

I am an innovative and strategic IT and cybersecurity executive with a diverse consulting background in a Big Four company and impactful leadership in the IT and finance sectors. My expertise lies in presenting complex technical concepts to high-level committees and C-level professionals, ensuring clear understanding and strategic alignment.

In my current role as a Senior Advisor at SoSafe, I provide strategic advice on market entry and growth opportunities in the Middle East and Turkey. Previously, as the Chief Risk and Security Officer at the Credit Bureau of Turkey, I initiated and developed multiple departments, leading one of the largest teams in the organization. My leadership has earned numerous awards, including recognition as the “Best Security Team” by FireEye, and I have successfully implemented various IT and cybersecurity infrastructures that have significantly enhanced operational resilience.

Throughout my career, I have orchestrated extensive IT advisory and audit projects, focusing on enhancing IT governance and security frameworks for major financial institutions. My commitment to excellence and continuous improvement has driven me to spearhead digital transformation initiatives and develop innovative solutions that align with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Senior Advisor

Current

SoSafe

Mar 2024 - Present (1 year 4 months)

Provided strategic advice on market entry and growth opportunities in the Middle East and Turkey. Collaborated with sales and marketing teams to tailor offerings to regional market needs, and established relationships with key stakeholders and potential clients. Developed and executed go-to-market strategies to increase SoSafe’s presence and market share in these regions.

Market Entry Strategy Go To Market Strategy Business Development Stakeholder Management

Chief Risk and Security Officer

Credit Bureau of Turkey

Apr 2013 - Sep 2023 (10 years 5 months)

Initiated and developed multiple departments from scratch, assembling and leading a team of over 50 professionals in Istanbul and Ankara. Chaired various committees including Information Security, Risk Management, and Digital Transformation, implementing and managing IT and cybersecurity infrastructures that earned numerous awards. Founded and managed one of Turkey's first 24/7 Cyber Defense Cente

Cybersecurity Risk Management ISO 27001 Digital Transformation GRC Strategic Planning Business Continuity IT Audit

Manager: IT Advisory / Audit

PwC

Dec 2007 - Apr 2013 (5 years 4 months)

Orchestrated the direction and expansion of PwC's IT Advisory and IT audit services, leading projects across diverse sectors including Financial Services and Technology. Championed an extensive range of IT disciplines, offering expert guidance in IT Governance, IT Security, IT Strategy, and IT Risk Management. Managed and executed an extensive portfolio of IT advisory and audit projects for local

IT Audit IT Governance IT Security IT Risk Management COBIT ITIL Penetration Testing Regulatory Compliance

Senior Consultant / Business Analyst

Satreno Consulting

Sep 2006 - Sep 2007 (1 year)

Excelled in the specialized domain of SAP BW&BI module, demonstrating profound expertise in financial reporting and analytics, which significantly advanced clients' financial data processing and reporting frameworks. Championed the development of functional specifications for comprehensive ERP system enhancements, focusing on interfaces, customizations, and data conversions. Acted as a linchpin in

Financial Reporting ERP Systems Business Analysis Data Conversion System Implementation User Training Functional Specifications

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Bogazici University

Master of Science, Management Information Systems

Studied Management Information Systems, focusing on the intersection of business and technology. Gained expertise in leveraging information systems for strategic decision-making and organizational efficiency.

State University of New York

Bachelor of Arts, Economics

Completed a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, developing a strong foundation in economic principles and analytical methods. Focused on understanding market dynamics and financial systems.

Istanbul Technical University

Bachelor of Science, Economics

Pursued a Bachelor of Science in Economics, gaining comprehensive knowledge in economic theory and quantitative analysis. Developed skills in economic modeling and policy evaluation.

Robert College

High School Diploma, Science and Math

Completed high school with a focus on Science and Math, building a strong academic foundation in quantitative subjects. Prepared for higher education in technical and analytical fields.