Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Assets And Achievements
Personal Qualifications
Hobbies and Interests
Timeline
Generic

Manish Khanijo

Doha,Qatar

Summary

With over 24 years of experience, I currently lead governance, risk, and audit initiatives for technology and security at a prominent government organization in Qatar. My expertise lies in structuring and managing large-scale, complex customer engagements worldwide, with a focus on technology domains such as Security, Privacy, Governance, Networking, Datacenter, Unified Communications, OSS/BSS, and Cloud Computing.

As an exceptional communicator, I prioritize building robust client relationships by leveraging a combination of technical, business, and leadership skills. Throughout my career, I have held key positions including Head of the Datacenter section, Lead Solution Architect, Project Manager, and Presales Lead.

My areas of specialization encompass Cyber Security Management, Governance, Technology Audits, Risk & Compliance, Consultative Selling, Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity, Privacy Management, Datacenter Management, IT Operations Management, IT Asset & Infrastructure Management, IT Compliance & Risk Management, IT Strategy & Planning, and Technology Evaluation & Selection.I am well-versed in process frameworks and standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 27001, ISO 22301, ISO 42001 compliance, ITIL, and PCI-DSS.

In addition to my technical expertise, I possess a deep understanding of business and technology alignment, including Budgeting & Financial Management, Customer Support & Service Management, Project & Program Management, Vendor Management, and Team Building.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Manager – Technology and Security Audit

Qatar Free Zone Authority
08.2021 - Current
  • Lead the Information Security Governance team, overseeing cybersecurity initiatives.
  • Conduct technology audits on Access Management, Infrastructure Security, Cloud Computing, Application Security, and Threat Management.
  • Implement cybersecurity awareness initiatives for the organization and investors.
  • Develop the Information Security strategy and architectural framework.
  • Create a real-time risk and threat tracking dashboard using PowerBI.
  • Manage internal technology audits to enhance system performance and compliance.
  • Develop robust technology frameworks for effective ICT resource management and governance.
  • Implement information security awareness strategies and programs to maintain a strong security posture.
  • Stay updated with compliance standards such as QDPPL, NIA, NIST RMF, and Qatar CSF.
  • Proactively identify and mitigate threats through threat hunting and vulnerability management.
  • Leverage AI/ML to enhance security capabilities and drive innovation.
  • Utilize expertise in AI/ML for optimizing security operations and response to threats.
  • Commit to staying at the forefront of technology advancements in cybersecurity practices.

Network and Security Lead for Credit Bureau

Qatar Central Bank
Qatar
07.2010 - 04.2021
  • Led a team responsible for network/security, server, and database operations as the Datacenter Lead for Qatar Credit Bureau.
  • Architected and deployed the primary and disaster recovery data center for the Credit Bureau.
  • Led a team in the implementation of ISO 9000 and ISO 22301 standards for Qatar Credit Bureau.
  • Implemented Information Security Management System (ISMS), maintained a risk register, and established security policies and procedures for ISO 27001 compliance.
  • Orchestrated disaster recovery and business continuity plans for hybrid cloud architectures.
  • Managed network, security, systems, storage, datacenter, voice, service desk, UNIX, and audit operations.
  • Oversaw IT operations budget planning and implementation.
  • Executed change management, release management, and service desk functions for both external and internal users.
  • Designed and implemented secure coding practices based on OWASP and SANS guidelines.
  • Developed a comprehensive cyber security strategy for the financial sector and served as a member of the Qatar Central Bank committee responsible for exploring blockchain usage in the financial sector.
  • Key initiatives in the present role include risk and compliance management, project design, budget planning, business continuity and disaster planning, and incident management.

Global Solution Architect

Nokia Siemens Networks
03.2009 - 07.2010
  • Engaged in pre-sales activities, solution architecture design, and consulting for global Telco customers.
  • Developed comprehensive turn-key solutions for mobile and fixed-line operators, focusing on emerging technologies such as Wimax, Certificate Authority, Service Control, and Secure Authentication.
  • Managed relationships with key turn-key solution vendors.
  • Identified security opportunities in 2G/3G/Pre-4G PaCo environments.
  • Implemented PaCo Security for multiple customers, including IndoSAT and Telefonica.
  • Collaborated closely with customer teams to market and support key security solution offerings in the Identity and Access Management (IAM) and Next-Generation Network (NGN) space.
  • Worked alongside the Customer Team to develop effective sales strategies for important telecom accounts.
  • Took responsibility for creating sales, technical, and marketing collateral for Identity and Access Management Solution.
  • Oversaw the induction of new vendors and facilitated their skill development for the adoption of new solutions.
  • Performed capacity planning to anticipate future needs and optimize resource utilization across various platforms.

Professional Services Architect for Security and iBOSS – North and East

Datacraft India (Now Part of Dimension Data)
10.2005 - 02.2009
  • Formulated solution-led sales strategies to expand business opportunities in the North and East regions of India.
  • Led product and professional services consulting for security solutions, focusing on clients in North and East India as well as specific named clients across the country.
  • Recognized as the solution champion for Intrusion Management Architecture, Network Admission Control, Mobility Solutions (GSM), and Application Acceleration solutions nationwide.
  • Responsible for developing commercially viable business cases and driving deals to closure, including proposal creation, solution design, implementation review, championing solutions, sharing best practice collaterals with the team, and ensuring timely billing and collection.
  • Designed innovative security solutions, successfully delivering unique projects, and transferring knowledge and expertise to the Managed Services team for ongoing support.
  • Engaged in the low-level design of complex LAN, WAN, IP Telephony, Security, and wireless LAN Requests for Proposal (RFPs), ensuring comprehensive and effective solutions.

Global Security Architect

IBM Global Services
11.2004 - 10.2005

Role : Lead WAN/Security deployments for Airtel/Infotel Part of Security Team for SO deals like ABB, Whirlpool

  • Implemented one of the largest Technology Change Management and Configuration Management processes to ensure efficient and controlled IT operations.
  • Played a significant role in the restructuring and redesigning of the Bharti Infotel & Airtel Network, which was one of the largest projects ever undertaken by IBM.
  • Responsible for setting goals, assigning projects, handling escalations, managing training, and performing other traditional management oversight activities.
  • Managed VPN connectivity and external connections for IBMers within Bharti SO, focusing on building a resilient infrastructure through continuous IT optimization and consolidation exercises.
  • Designed IBM remote connectivity guidelines and implemented ITIL standard processes and procedures.
  • Strategized and planned for WAN and LAN contingency planning for one of the largest heavy engineering organizations, ensuring business continuity in the event of network disruptions or failures.

Technology Lead

InKnowTech Pvt. Ltd.
Bangalore
05.2003 - 11.2004
  • Designed, built, and managed LAN/WAN networks for enterprise networks, ensuring optimal connectivity and performance.
  • Took direct control of project-related activities, including architecture design, to ensure successful implementation of network solutions.
  • Acted as a key point of contact for clients, establishing and maintaining strong client relationships.
  • Served as a liaison between clients and multiple vendors, coordinating efforts and ensuring seamless communication and collaboration.
  • Led the setup of Network Operations Center (NOC) and Security Operations Center (SOC) operations for a large client with VSAT connectivity, establishing robust monitoring and incident response capabilities.
  • Developed and implemented network monitoring and management strategies to proactively identify and resolve issues, minimizing downtime and maximizing network efficiency.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align network infrastructure with business objectives and requirements.
  • Conducted regular network assessments and audits to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary upgrades or enhancements.

Process & Security Consultant

Pipal Software Solutions (India) Pvt. Ltd.
06.2001 - 09.2002
  • Worked as Process & Security Consultant on guidelines of HIPPA and ISO9000
  • Managed Network and Security Operations.

Education

Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) -

M.C.R.P University

Masters in Science (Information Technology) (Distance Education) -

India

Post Graduate Diploma in OM -

Symbiosis

Skills

  • Technology Audits
  • Information Security Strategy and Privacy policy Management
  • Security Architecture, Design, Planning and Implementation
  • Budget and Project Planning
  • Managed Services, Data center, NOC/SOC
  • Enterprise Architecture, Planning, Implementation and Monitoring
  • Green Field IT Operations set up

Certification

  • Certified Internal Auditor
  • CCIE Security #24123
  • ISC2 CISSP
  • ISACA CISA, CISM, CRISC, CDPSE
  • PMI PMP
  • SANS GIAC GCIH Certified
  • RSA Secure ID Certified
  • Radware Certified on AppDirector and LinkProof
  • Aeroscout Certified Solution Architect
  • Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer
  • McAfee Risk Management Technical Professional
  • McAfee Network Intrusion Technical Professional
  • Juniper Certified for SSL VPN
  • HP Openview Network Node Manager Certified
  • CompTIA A+ Certified
  • Citrix Certified Administrator
  • Cisco Certified Network Professional
  • Sun Certified Systems Administrator
  • Checkpoint Certified Security Administrator (CCSA)
  • CA Unicenter NSM Certified
  • Amp Certified Designing LAN Cabling Systems
  • ISO 27001 Lead Auditor
  • ISO 42001 Lead Implementor
  • TOGAF 9 Certified

Assets And Achievements

  • Aseessed Employee of the year in 2022 for exceptional performance in my current role.
  • International Keynote speaker at various cybersecurity events in Dubai and Qatar.
  • Assessed Employee of the Year twice for delivering projects on time in Inknowtech Ltd.
  • Exceeded Professional services target two quarters in a row in FY07 H1.

Personal Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA), M.C.R.P University
  • Masters in Science (Information Technology) (Distance Education), India
  • Post Graduate Diploma in OM, Symbiosis

Hobbies and Interests

  • Active member of Toastmasters club and ISACA Chapter
  • Keen interest in financial markets with knowledge in accounting and economic principles.
  • Played a role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship through investments in technology startups.

Timeline

Manager – Technology and Security Audit

Qatar Free Zone Authority
08.2021 - Current

Network and Security Lead for Credit Bureau

Qatar Central Bank
07.2010 - 04.2021

Global Solution Architect

Nokia Siemens Networks
03.2009 - 07.2010

Professional Services Architect for Security and iBOSS – North and East

Datacraft India (Now Part of Dimension Data)
10.2005 - 02.2009

Global Security Architect

IBM Global Services
11.2004 - 10.2005

Technology Lead

InKnowTech Pvt. Ltd.
05.2003 - 11.2004

Process & Security Consultant

Pipal Software Solutions (India) Pvt. Ltd.
06.2001 - 09.2002

Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) -

M.C.R.P University

Masters in Science (Information Technology) (Distance Education) -

India

Post Graduate Diploma in OM -

Symbiosis
Manish Khanijo