Speaker

Strategic IT Operations Executive renowned for driving Information Security programs across diverse business units. A visionary leader with a keen eye on the big picture, Samer specializes in delivering business continuity while spearheading best-in-class security systems. His commitment to innovation is evident through the seamless implementation of new technologies and process improvements, ensuring technology platforms remain at the forefront of industry standards.

Leading by example, Samer embodies accountability, ownership, and effective communication, fostering a culture of excellence within his teams. Adaptable and forward-thinking, Samer has successfully built and nurtured DevOps teams from the ground up, orchestrated corporate-wide modernization projects, and seamlessly transitioned IT operations from on-premises to the cloud, all without causing business disruptions.

Currently serving as the IT Security leader and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at one of Canada's largest health benefits providers, Samer prioritizes the security and privacy of members' data. Simultaneously, he leads the security delivery aspect of a complex digital transformation program.

In his previous role as the Technology Operations and Security leader for Canada's leading meal kit provider, Samer has directed a team of professionals in Cybersecurity, IT Infrastructure, and Operations. Earlier in his career, as the VP Infrastructure and CISO for the largest payment processing network in Canada. He has managed a team of 70 professionals. Samer's leadership extended to being the Head of Information Security and Internal Controls for a prominent Canadian retailer.

With over 30 years of experience in Information Security and Information Technology Infrastructure support, Samer brings a wealth of expertise. Holding a degree in Computer Science and Information Technology, along with certifications such as PCIISA, PCIP, and CISM, he is not only a practitioner but also an author. Samer has published two books on Computer Maintenance, both integral to the Grade 11 & 12 curriculum.

Samer's career journey also includes serving as the CISO for the Canadian office of a Global IT Consultancy company, where he managed a team providing comprehensive cybersecurity services externally to clients and internally within a global structure. Additionally, he held the position of CISO for the largest payment processing company in Canada, successfully maintaining PCI-DSS compliance status for the company from 2012 to 2014 and PA-DSS status for all payment applications.

In every role, Samer remains deeply passionate about information security and data privacy. As an accomplished public speaker and motivator, he continues to champion excellence and innovation in every aspect of IT operations and security.