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Amjad Mehmood

Province: Ontario

Resume

Candidate Statement

 

As a seasoned cybersecurity executive with over 25 years of leadership in Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC), cloud security, and AI-driven cyber solutions, I am honored to seek a position on CIRA’s board. My career spans strategic roles across public safety, government, and global consulting firms, including Peel Regional Police, KPMG, Deloitte, and Bell Canada. I have led enterprise-wide cybersecurity programs, designed secure multi-cloud architectures, and implemented AI-enhanced threat detection systems aligned with NIST, ISO, and PCI-DSS standards.

My experience includes serving as a virtual CISO, managing $67M budgets, and delivering over 60 successful security projects. I’ve built Zero Trust architectures, modernized SOCs, and driven compliance across federal and provincial agencies. I hold advanced certifications, including CCISO, CISSP, CISM, CGEIT, and Microsoft Cybersecurity Architect Expert, and am currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration.

Joining CIRA’s board offers a unique opportunity to contribute to Canada’s digital resilience. I bring a strategic vision rooted in technical excellence, policy development, and stakeholder engagement. My commitment to cybersecurity education, innovation, and public trust aligns with CIRA’s mission to build a secure and accessible internet for all Canadians.

I look forward to collaborating with fellow board members to strengthen Canada’s cyber posture, promote responsible AI adoption, and enhance cloud security governance. Together, we can ensure CIRA remains a beacon of digital trust and leadership.

CIRA (Canadian Internet Registration Authority) plays a vital role in shaping and securing Canada’s digital landscape. As the official registry for .CA domains, CIRA ensures that Canadians have a trusted and distinctly national online presence. Beyond domain management, CIRA is a not-for-profit organization committed to building a safer, more resilient internet for all Canadians.

CIRA’s work matters because it goes beyond infrastructure—it fosters digital trust, privacy, and equity. Through its cybersecurity initiatives, CIRA helps protect Canadian networks from evolving threats. Its Community Investment Program funds grassroots projects that promote digital literacy, access, and innovation. CIRA also advocates for a free, open, and interoperable internet, aligning with global governance standards while addressing local needs.

In an era of increasing cyber risks and digital transformation, CIRA’s leadership ensures that Canada’s internet remains secure, inclusive, and future-ready. Its member-driven model empowers individuals and organizations to actively shape the internet’s evolution. CIRA is not just a registry—it’s a steward of Canada’s digital identity and a catalyst for national progress.

I am passionate about strengthening Canada’s digital resilience and ensuring that our internet infrastructure remains secure, inclusive, and future-ready. Joining CIRA’s Board of Directors would allow me to contribute my extensive experience in cybersecurity, cloud security, GRC, and AI to support CIRA’s mission and strategic initiatives.

With over 25 years of leadership in cybersecurity across government, law enforcement, and global consulting firms, I bring a deep understanding of risk management, compliance, and secure digital transformation. I’ve led enterprise-wide security programs, managed multi-million-dollar budgets, and designed secure cloud architectures aligned with NIST, ISO, and PCI-DSS standards. My work with Election Canada, provincial governments, and the Department of Defense has equipped me with the insight needed to navigate complex regulatory and operational environments.

As a board member, I would offer strategic guidance on cybersecurity governance, AI adoption, and cloud security best practices. I am committed to promoting digital trust, privacy, and equitable access—values that align closely with CIRA’s vision. My collaborative leadership style, technical expertise, and policy development experience position me to be a valuable contributor to CIRA’s continued success.

Challenges and Opportunities:

1. Cybersecurity Threats and Resilience: As cyber threats grow in sophistication, CIRA must strengthen its defenses and support Canadian organizations in building resilient infrastructures. My experience leading enterprise-wide cybersecurity programs and designing Zero Trust architectures equips me to guide strategic initiatives that enhance national cyber resilience.

2. AI Governance and Ethical Use: The rise of AI presents both opportunities and risks. CIRA must ensure responsible AI adoption that protects privacy and promotes transparency. I’ve led AI-integrated threat detection and compliance programs, and I can help shape governance frameworks that balance innovation with ethical safeguards.

3. Digital Inclusion and Infrastructure Expansion: Ensuring equitable access to secure internet services across Canada, especially in underserved communities, remains a critical priority. My work with public sector clients and community-focused cybersecurity programs positions me to support initiatives that expand digital access and literacy.

As a board member, I would bring strategic insight, technical depth, and a collaborative mindset to help CIRA navigate these challenges and seize emerging opportunities. My background in GRC, cloud security, and public sector engagement aligns with CIRA’s mission to build a trusted, inclusive, and secure digital future for all Canadians.

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