International Business Forum

Harris Ismail, currently Head of Identity & Access Management at a leading Financial Institution in Qatar. Harris boasts over 12 years of experience in the information security field, holding various leadership roles. Prior to this, Harris honed his skills as a business-focused information security strategist at multiple organizations, including some on the Forbes list. Throughout the past decade, Harris has established himself as a subject matter expert (SME) in the region, known for his success in designing and implementing intricate, end-to-end IAM solutions for large companies. He has a proven track record of enabling robust IAM capabilities and fostering a culture of identity security for both cloud-based and on-premise solutions, particularly within highly regulated industries like government and finance.

With over two decades of experience in Information Technology, I've honed my expertise in the critical field of Information Security. As a seasoned professional, I've successfully navigated the complexities of crafting and implementing robust infrastructure solutions, ensuring cybersecurity resilience, managing identity and access, and championing data protection and privacy.

My career has been marked by a proven track record of leading and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams, both nationally and internationally. I'm adept at translating business objectives into actionable security strategies, and my cultural fluency allows me to thrive in diverse environments.

Currently, I serve as the Information Security Manager at Azul Brazilian Airlines, where I lead a talented team in safeguarding the digital assets of one of Brazil's leading airlines. My role encompasses ensuring compliance with stringent standards like ISO 27001, ISO 27701, NIST, CIS, ENISA, OWASP, PTES, and COSO.

Prior to this, I held key positions at ZF Group, where I spearheaded cybersecurity and data protection initiatives across South America, North America and Europe. My experience also includes managing IT infrastructure and leading teams in diverse environments.

My deep expertise in Information Security and Data Protection has been cultivated through years of hands-on experience and strategic leadership. I've spearheaded critical projects in Cybersecurity Data Protection & Privacy, Identity and Access Management, and Governance and Risk Compliance, and I'm passionate about adopting innovative, military-inspired strategies for cybersecurity defense.

I’m a Computer Engineer holding an MBA in IT Management, further solidifying my commitment to excellence in the field. Additionally, I possess key certifications such as the Certified Information Privacy Professional/Europe (CIPP/E), OneTrust Certified Privacy Professional, and certifications in Military Strategy and Tactics for Cybersecurity, which underscore my dedication to staying at the forefront of industry knowledge and best practices.

Experience of more than 20 years in the design, implementation and administration of information security management systems, cybersecurity and personal data protection. Extensive knowledge of the regulatory framework in regulated entities and international standards.

For over 25 years, I've dedicated my professional life to safeguarding what matters most: “The information”. My journey through the financial sector, from banking to brokerage firm, has allowed me to take on critical roles as a consultant, manager, and IT director. Each challenge has been an opportunity for growth and learning.

My passion for cybersecurity has driven me to share knowledge through talks and training sessions, empowering others in the field of information security. I've been at the forefront of IT project implementation, working closely with regulatory authority like the Superintendence of Banks and the Superintendence of the Stock Market.

As a Project Manager, I've spearheaded disruptive technological projects, constantly innovating and aligning technology with business goals. My commitment to education and collaboration has led me to become an Innovative Coach, a member of the International Association of Coaches (IAC), and an ambassador of the Cybersecurity Dojo Community in Panama, as well as a contributor to Wosec (Women in Cybersecurity).

To make cybersecurity accessible to everyone, I founded SECUROBOT, a project aimed at educating families and children about the importance of digital security. I firmly believe that cybersecurity should be within everyone's reach, and I work daily to create a safer digital world.

Join me in this mission of innovation and protection, where cybersecurity is not just a career but a passion that drives my life.

Juan is a cybersecurity professional with experience in both offensive and defensive strategies. He specializes in threat intelligence management and the identification of technical cybersecurity risks, having managed exercises such as red teaming, ethical hacking, and threat hunting to enhance security posture and anticipate threats.

Juan holds certifications in ISO 27001, ISO 27032, and has a master’s degree in Cyber Intelligence. These credentials support his focus on best practices and international standards. In addition, in 2021, he was awarded the FS-ISAC Global Leaders award. This recognition highlights professionals who excel in supporting the security and resilience of the financial sector by sharing cyber intelligence and best practices to help defend the industry against cyber risks. Nominations were verified by the FS-ISAC Global Intelligence Office, and winners were selected by the FS-ISAC Board of Directors, with one winner per region (NAM, LATAM, EMEA, and APAC).

• Juan Manuel Vergara (51 years)
  • IT Professional with more than 28 years of experience in Cybersecurity
  • Graduated from Instituto Politécnico Nacional as Communications and Electronic Engineer
  • Postgraduate studies (MBA and Finance) in Universidad Anáhuac México Norte
  • As professional he owns the next certifications:
    • CISSP (from 2004)
    • CISA (from 2007)
    • CISM (from 2011)
  • Much of his professional career was spent on the end-user side where he was part of the computer security team at Bancomer (Now BBVA) for almost 6 years, managing part of the institution's security infrastructure at that time.
  • He formed the Computer Security area at the Anáhuac University, which led him to lead and implement different projects that helped lay the foundations of computer security to centralize and consolidate (securely) the main educational services.
  • He has evaluated and implemented different emerging technologies (in past years) that today have established themselves as leading technologies (Kaspersky, Aruba, Zscaler, Forescout) and now has a partnership with Enthec, Hackrocks and Kymatio.
  • He starts as partner and cybersecurity consultant in Círculo Daat in 2014, leading the Mexico’s north’s team.
  • In 2013 he joined the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León as a teacher, teaching the subject of “Security Architectures” for 4 years.
  • In 2023 he joined the Universidad Anáhuac Puebla as a teacher, teaching the subjects of “IT” and “Technological Innovation”.
  • Passionate about sports and particularly American football (member of the American football Hall Of Fame in Mexico).