Cyber Security Manager – Lead SOC Operations in Dubai

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Cyber Security Manager to build, lead and scale a multi‑tier Security Operations Center (SOC) for a regulated financial services client in Dubai. This senior leadership position will own SOC performance, platform strategy and talent development within a high‑profile, compliance‑driven environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead a 24/7 multi‑tier SOC covering monitoring, incident response and threat intelligence.
• Define and own SOC performance metrics, shift models, escalation paths and continuous improvement programs.
• Manage SIEM, EDR and SOAR platform strategy, vendor evaluation and technology roadmap.
• Report security posture, incident metrics and risk indicators to executive leadership and regulators.
• Recruit, develop and retain security operations talent in a competitive UAE market.
• Drive maturity improvements aligned to SOC‑CMM or equivalent frameworks.

Required profile

• 8‑12 years of cybersecurity experience, including at least 3 years managing a SOC or security operations team.
• CISSP or CISM certification (required).
• Familiarity with SOC‑CMM maturity frameworks (advantageous).
• Proven experience reporting security metrics to board‑level or C‑suite stakeholders.
• Understanding of UAE financial sector regulatory requirements.
• Strong people‑management, talent‑development and vendor‑management track record.

Required skills

• SIEM platforms – Splunk, IBM QRadar, Microsoft Sentinel.
• Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) tools.
• Security Orchestration, Automation & Response (SOAR) solutions.
• Knowledge of SOC‑CMM or equivalent maturity frameworks.

What we offer

• Executive‑level compensation package (AED 25,000 – 40,000 per month) plus benefits.
• Leadership role in a regulated, high‑profile financial services environment.
• Visa sponsorship and family relocation support.
• Professional development, conference attendance and executive education support.
• Tax‑free salary in the UAE.