Data Security Director – AvanadeWe are seeking a dynamic and experienced Security Consulting Leader, with deep expertise in Data Protection, to join our team. This role is pivotal in driving our security consulting practice, leading presales activities, generating a robust pipeline of opportunities, whilst engaging in some of the most exciting, complex, and leading-edge projects.You will play an active role in transforming our client’s Information Protection strategy, capabilities, and operations through the design and implementation of Microsoft security products. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills in security consulting, with a proven track record in growing pipeline, solutioning and delivering deals. This role includes partial delivery expectations for the year.QualificationsSkills and experiencesExtensive experience in security consulting with a focus on leadership.Proven track record in presales, pipeline generation, and solutioning/architecting deals.Strong understanding of the security landscape and industry trends.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.Ability to build and maintain strong client relationships.Demonstrated ability to drive business growth and achieve sales targets.Advanced Microsoft Security Certifications such as: SC-100, SC-200, SC-401, AI-900Industry-recognised certifications such as: CISSP, CCSP, CISM, GIACIn-depth knowledge of Azure Security Tools with experience implementing Purview and DSPM strategies for AI models or hybrid data platformsStrong background in Security Architecture Design for cloud-based applications and servicesContinuous learning mindset and ability to improve security processes and toolsFamiliarity with compliance frameworks (e.g., GDPR, NIST AI RMF, ISO 27001, SOC 2)Familiarity with cloud security best practices and industry standardsAbout YouBeneficial Knowledge:Understanding of how AI/ML models handle training data, inference data, and derived dataExperience with case management workflows and insider threat response protocolsData lineage tracking for model input/outputFamiliarity with Responsible AI practices including bias, fairness, and explainabilityKnowledge of the Microsoft Defender suite, including Defender for Endpoint, Defender for Identity, Defender for Office 365, and Microsoft Cloud App SecurityWhat You\'ll DoKey Leadership Responsibilities:Leadership in Security Consulting: Lead and inspire a team of security consultants, providing strategic direction for data protection and fostering a culture of excellence.Presales and Pipeline Generation: Drive presales activities, identify and generate new business opportunities, and build a strong pipeline to achieve growth targets.Solutioning and Architecting Deals: Develop innovative security solutions and architect deals that meet client needs and align with our business objectives, predominantly in the data protection space.Brand Amplification: Amplify the Avanade brand in the industry by representing the company at key events, conferences, and through thought leadership.Client Relationship Ownership: Own and nurture new and existing client relationships, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and long-term partnerships.Opportunity Spotting: Identify and capitalize on new opportunities across our sales team to expand our security consulting services.Capability Development: Develop and enhance the capabilities of the security consulting team in the data protection space through training, mentoring, and knowledge sharing.Business Growth: Drive the growth of the security business by achieving sales targets and expanding our market presence.Key Technical ResponsibilitiesLead large projects and project teamsManage deliverables and be responsible for delivering against critical milestonesEngage in solution architecture and pre-sales deal shapingDevelop and maintain long-term strategic client relationshipsLead the implementation and management of Microsoft Purview for data discovery, classification, sensitivity labelling, and retention policiesDrive DSPM (Data Security Posture Management) strategy to ensure AI models, pipelines, and infrastructure meet enterprise data protection and compliance requirementsDesign and enforce DSPM frameworks tailored for AI-driven data infrastructureDefine and monitor KPIs for data discovery, classification, and protection coverageImplement DSPM solutions to discover, classify, and secure data across AI pipelinesIntegrate data classification and retention policies within AI lifecycleProvide forensic tracing of AI usage and auditability of input dataIntegrate Purview alerts and telemetry with Microsoft Defender and Sentinel to enable real-time threat detection and incident correlationOversee configuration of E5 security tools, including Microsoft Information Protection, Data Loss Prevention, and Insider Risk ManagementStay current with evolving data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, CCPA, NIST AI RMF) and recommend policy updates accordinglyDevelop high-level documentation and executive reports on data security posture, risk exposures, and improvement roadmapsAdditional experience with Entra suite, M365, and Defender is not mandatory but valuableOther Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and maintain strong relationships with account teams and client stakeholdersIdentify customer needs and understand business goals to envisage a high-level solution and winning strategyDevelop detailed security transformation and operations opportunities based on capabilities, standardised tools, processes, and partner technologyCollaborate with security architects and other technology partnersDrive and be involved in proposal development, solution presentations, and discussionsConduct and follow through the sales process to accomplish deal closureLearn moreAvanade is the leading global provider of digital, cloud, AI and advisory services, industry solutions and design-led experiences across the Microsoft ecosystem. Founded in 2000 as a joint venture between Accenture LLP and Microsoft Corporation, Avanade has more certifications, Gold-level competencies and most valued professionals (MVPs) than any other Microsoft partner. Every day, our 60,000 professionals in 26 countries innovate responsibly to make a genuine human impact for our clients, their employees and their customers.To learn more about the types of projects our Security team works on check out this info:Avanade Security - Are you Doing Enough? https://www.avanade.com/en/solutions/security-service-solutions?videoid=6311944004112EDF Client Story | Avanade https://www.avanade.com/en/clients/edfZurich Client Story | Avanade https://www.avanade.com/en/clients/zurichA Catastrophic Cyber Event. Are You Ready? https://www.avanade.com/en/blogs/avanade-insights/security/catastrophic-cyber-attackThe New World of Decentralized Identity https://www.avanade.com/en-us/solutions/security-service-solutions/digital-identityEnjoy your careerSome of the best things about working at AvanadeWork for Microsoft’s Global Alliance Partner of the YearPension, Electric Car Purchase scheme, 25 days holiday, flexible benefits, car allowance, bonus, PMI, life cover, and moreExceptional development and training (minimum 80 hours/year) and paid certificationsAccess to Avanade University – a global training platformDedicated career adviser to guide your professional developmentSupportive colleagues genuinely interested in your growthReward and recognition programFull benefits package including medical coverage and income protectionWe’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI. #J-18808-Ljbffr