VP, Security Governance

Headquartered in Tokyo, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) is a leading global financial institution and a core member of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMBC Group). Built upon our rich Japanese heritage since 1876, we put our customers first and provide seamless access to, from and within the Asia Pacific region.   SMBC is one of the largest Japanese banks by assets and maintain strong credit ratings across our global integrated network.  We work closely as one SMBC Group to offer personal, corporate and investment banking services to meet the needs of our customers.

With sustainability embedded within our strategy and operations, we are committed to creating a society in which today’s generation can enjoy economic prosperity and well-being, and pass it on to future generations.

Job Responsibilities

1. Governance and Controls Management

• Develop, maintain, and enhance comprehensive security governance standards, policies, procedures, and  guidelines aligned with corporate policies, regulatory mandates, and industry-leading frameworks.
• Monitor adherence to cybersecurity controls and governance practices across all business units.
• Partner with business units and IT teams to assess, refine, and standardize cyber risk and information security management processes to ensure consistency and operational excellence.
• Identify process/capabilities gaps and inefficiencies within IT and IS frameworks; recommend and implement pragmatic improvements to enhance security posture and risk management.
• Act as a trusted advisor and consultant to stakeholders on security governance matters, ensuring IT projects and initiatives incorporate appropriate risk mitigation and compliance controls.
• Provide security governance and strategic oversight for Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) initiative, establish the relevant security framework and standards, and drive the bank’s transition towards long-term cryptographic resilience.
• Conduct security risk assessments for third-party engagements to strengthen the bank’s security posture and resilience across its third-party ecosystem.

2. Audit Support

• Oversee cybersecurity audits, assurance activities, and regulatory engagements; manage responses to audit findings and regulatory inquiries with thorough documentation and knowledge management.
• Coordinate and support internal audit activities related to security controls across the enterprise and its franchises.
• Prepare and manage audit documentation, respond to audit findings, and track remediation plans to closure.

3. Stakeholder Collaboration

• Collaborate with the wider Cybersecurity, Risk Management, IT Operations, Legal, and Compliance teams to integrate governance and controls across technology initiatives.
• Engage with franchise leadership to support governance initiatives and foster strong communication channels.

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• Minimum 12 years of professional experience with at least 8 years focused on cyber risk management and information security governance, preferably in a financial institution.
• Deep expertise in risk management frameworks, IT governance, cybersecurity standards, and compliance requirements across multiple jurisdictions.
• Proven experience managing audits and regulatory compliance in technology, cybersecurity, and information security domains.
• Good knowledge across diverse IT and security domains, including but not limited to, Cryptographic Key Management, Third-Party Risk Management, and AI Risk Management.
• Exceptional interpersonal, analytical, and written communication skills with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and ability to work effectively under pressure and tight deadlines.
• Self-motivated, meticulous, and a proactive team player with a positive attitude and strong sense of responsibility.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Relevant professional certifications (e.g. CISSP, CISA, CRISC, CGEIT) and knowledge of CRI are highly desirable.