Zaituni Mmari
@zaitunimmari
Global cybersecurity and resilience leader driving digital transformation.
What I'm looking for
I am a strategic cybersecurity, digital risk, and transformation leader with over 15 years of cross-border experience across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. I specialize in aligning security and resilience strategies with digital transformation using AI and cloud solutions.
As Group Manager, Business Continuity Management, I led BCM and crisis programs across 33 countries and successfully delivered ISO 22301 certification across 37 countries, protecting operations during major disruptions. As Group Information Security Manager, I drove ISO 27001 certification across 37 countries and strengthened cyber defenses with AI-based analytics and endpoint protections.
Earlier in my career at IBM, I established a 24/7 Security Operations Center and forensic capabilities, improved governance frameworks, and reduced regulatory and audit risk for global financial clients. I have hands-on experience integrating technologies such as Microsoft Defender Suite, CrowdStrike, Mimecast, SIEM, and GRC platforms.
I hold a PhD in Information Technology (Information Assurance & Cybersecurity) and multiple industry certifications (ISO 27001, ISO 22301, CEH, GICSP, CISA training), and I am passionate about fostering compliance, agility, and continuous improvement in complex regulated environments.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Group Manager, Business Continuity
Ecobank Transnational Incorporated
Jan 2017 - Present (8 years 8 months)
Manage and spearhead Group Business Continuity and crisis management programs across 33 countries, leading ISO 22301 certifications across 37 countries and ensuring operational resilience with zero monetary losses during major disruptions.
Group Information Security Manager
Ecobank Transnational Incorporated
Jan 2013 - Jan 2017 (4 years)
Formulated and implemented Group cybersecurity policies and network/endpoint protection, led ISO 27001 certification across 37 countries, and reduced vulnerabilities through security awareness programs and advanced monitoring.
Directed data protection and IT governance initiatives across Africa, established a 24/7 SOC and forensic lab, streamlined compliance to reduce audit findings, and improved security operations efficiency via governance frameworks.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Capella University
Doctor of Philosophy, Information Assurance & Cybersecurity
Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology (Information Assurance & Cybersecurity); recognized as a President's List honoree.
Arden University
Master of Science, IT Security Management
Master of Science in IT Security Management completed in 2020 focusing on information security governance and risk management.
Institute of Technology, Dar es Salaam
Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science completed in 2008 with foundational training in programming, systems, and computing principles.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Job categories
Interested in hiring Zaituni?
You can contact Zaituni and 90k+ other talented remote workers on Himalayas.
Message ZaituniFind your dream job
Sign up now and join over 100,000 remote workers who receive personalized job alerts, curated job matches, and more for free!
