Head of IT Governance

About the role

The Head of IT Governance will streamline and harmonise processes and control measures across the technology landscape of a leading bank in Bahrain. The role ensures alignment with business objectives, promotes cohesive IT delivery, and balances tight control with agile execution.

Key responsibilities

• Implement local controls in line with group policies and ensure license compliance.
• Establish and monitor Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with business units, subsidiaries and the Group.
• Define, manage and report technology budgets (CAPEX and OPEX) and track expenses.
• Publish governance processes, procedures and key performance indicators aligned with industry best practices.
• Conduct operational risk self‑assessments, track IT risks and take corrective actions.
• Manage vendor relationships, contracts and asset inventory.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science or related field.
• Extensive experience in banking or financial services IT, preferably within the GCC region.
• Proven senior‑level experience overseeing IT applications, infrastructure and operations.

Required skills

• ISO 27001 certification knowledge.
• PCI‑DSS certification knowledge.
• Read‑only access and familiarity with Core Banking Systems for audit reviews.
• Read‑only access to Incident Response and Disaster Recovery platforms.
• Read‑only experience with GRC (Governance, Risk, Compliance) tools.
• Reviewer/approver role experience in Procurement and OSR Management systems.