Cybersecurity Lead

FIRST Exploration & Petroleum Development Company · Lagos

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The Cybersecurity Lead is responsible for safeguarding the organization’s information assets, operational technology interfaces, digital platforms, and data by leading the enterprise cybersecurity and information security function. Reporting directly to the Chief Technology Officer (CTO), the role provides independent oversight of cybersecurity risk, governance, and compliance while supporting safe, reliable, and efficient business and operational outcomes. 

The role operates within a lean technology organization and works closely with Technology Operations, Digital & Technology Innovation, and Technical Project Management teams to embed cybersecurity controls into day‑to‑day operations and project delivery.  

Key Accountabilities

Cybersecurity Strategy & Governance 

• Define the organization information and cybersecurity strategy together with the Digital and Technology innovation team. And execute the strategy in alignment with operational reliability, safety, and business objectives. 

• Establish and maintain cybersecurity policies, standards, and procedures aligned with global best practices and regulatory expectations. 

• Ensure security considerations are integrated into infrastructure, cloud, business applications, and digital transformation initiatives. 

Cyber Risk Management & IT GRC 

• Lead enterprise cybersecurity risk management activities, including identification, assessment, mitigation, and reporting of cyber risks. 

• Maintain the cybersecurity and IT risk register and support integration with broader enterprise risk management processes. 

• Ensure compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, contractual obligations, and data protection standards relevant to the oil and gas operating environment. 

• Coordinate and support internal and external audits, risk assessments, and assurance activities. 

Security Operations & Incident Response 

• Provide oversight and service assurance for outsourced Security Operations Centre (SOC) services. 

• Lead and coordinate cybersecurity incident response activities, including investigation, containment, remediation, and post‑incident reviews. 

• Ensure incident response plans, escalation procedures, and communication protocols are defined, tested, and operationally practical. 

Threat Intelligence, Vulnerability & Assurance 

• Oversee vulnerability management and penetration testing programs delivered by third‑party providers. 

• Work with Technology Operations teams to ensure timely remediation of identified vulnerabilities, prioritised based on operational and business risk.
• Monitor emerging cyber threats and industry‑relevant attack patterns and translate insights into practical control improvements. 
• Identity, Access & Architecture Security 
• Oversee Identity and Access Management (IAM) controls, including privileged access management and user lifecycle processes. 
• Promote least‑privilege access, segregation of duties, and zero‑trust principles across enterprise IT and digital platforms. 
• Provide security input into system architecture, solution designs, and technology standards. 
• Third‑Party & Supply Chain Security 
• Assess and manage cybersecurity risks associated with vendors, service providers, and technology partners. 
• Ensure appropriate security controls and requirements are embedded within contracts and service agreements. 
• Security Awareness & Capability Development 
• Deliver security awareness and targeted training programs to improve cyber hygiene across the organization. 
• Provide guidance and coaching to technology and digital delivery teams on secure practices. 
• Line‑manage and mentor a Cybersecurity Analyst to build internal security capability. 
• Reporting & Stakeholder Engagement 
• Report cybersecurity risks, incidents, and overall security posture directly to the CTO. 
• Provide clear, practical cybersecurity insights to technology leadership and business stakeholders. 
• Act as the primary cybersecurity point of contact across the organization. 

Requirements

The ideal candidate must possess the following: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related discipline.  

• 5–8 years’ experience in cybersecurity, information security, or IT GRC roles within enterprise environments.  

• Practical experience with cybersecurity governance frameworks such as ISO/IEC 27001, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, or similar.  

• Proven experience conducting cybersecurity risk assessments, audits, and compliance activities.  

• Familiarity with security operations concepts, incident response, vulnerability management, and third‑party security oversight.  

• Experience working in regulated or asset‑intensive industries (e.g., oil & gas, energy, utilities, or heavy industry) is an advantage.  

• Relevant professional certifications (or working towards them) such as ISO 27001, CISSP, CISM, or CRISC are desirable. 
• Strong understanding of both technical cybersecurity controls and IT governance, risk, and compliance. 
• Practical, risk‑based approach suited to operational environments where availability, safety, and business continuity are critical

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