Strategic Counterintelligence Director

Job Description:

The Head of Counterintelligence will oversee the development, implementation, and management of corporate counterintelligence and insider threat prevention programmes to safeguard VARD against threats such as espionage, information leaks, and internal threats.

• Design and implement comprehensive counterintelligence strategies and programmes tailored to VARD's operational needs and risk profile
• Conduct ongoing assessments of external and internal threats
• Develop and enforce policies and procedures aimed at preventing information leaks and unauthorized access to sensitive data
• Work closely with various departments (e.g., IT, Legal, HR) to integrate counterintelligence practices into corporate operations, and to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations
• Lead the creation of training programmes to educate employees on recognizing and reporting irregular activities and other subject matter areas as defined
• Oversee investigations into potential breaches or insider threats, coordinating with internal teams or external agencies when necessary
• Evaluate and deploy security technologies for monitoring, detection, and response to counterintelligence activities
• Provide regular briefings and reports on the state of corporate counterintelligence within the organization, emerging threats, and mitigation strategies
• Develop and manage response strategies for incidents involving counterintelligence or insider threats, ensuring minimal impact on business operations
• Collaborate with national and international security agencies to strengthen the organization's posture in corporate counterintelligence and to mitigate insider threats through effective communication and coordination

We are seeking a strategic leader with expertise and experience within intelligence operations, threat analysis, and security management.

Preferably, you hold a higher degree in Security Management, Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, Intelligence Studies, or similar.

• Deep understanding of espionage tactics, cyber threats, and insider threat behaviors
• Strong analytical, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent leadership and communication abilities, with experience in working with cross-functional teams
• Proficiency with security software, threat intelligence platforms, and data analytics tools
• Excellent written and oral communication, both English and Norwegian

You must currently hold, or be able to obtain relevant security clearances if required by the role.

VARD works systematically for inclusion and diversity and encourages everyone to apply, even if your competence does not match 100% the above.

• High integrity and discretion with sensitive information
• Strong ethical standards and a commitment to confidentiality
• Structured and reliable communicator
• Strong leadership, teambuilding, and organizational skills
• Self-motivated and collaborative
• Ability to think critically under pressure and make decisions in complex scenarios

Benefits: VARD recognizes the importance of having fun at work, this is why with VARD Social you will have the chance to bond with colleagues through new experiences and shared interests. The social offer varies throughout the year and includes activities like 'walk and talk' during lunch hours, fjord cruises, cooking lessons, go karting, football practices, and wine tasting, just to name a few.

About VARD: VARD is one of the major global designers and shipbuilders of specialized vessels. VARD consists of nine shipyards and subsidiary companies in the areas of design, electro, piping, accommodation, and handling systems. Our head office is localized in Ålesund, and we have approximately 8300 employees working in Norway, Romania, Brazil, Vietnam, Singapore, Croatia, Italy, India, Canada, US, Poland, Estonia, Chile, and UK.