Ebenezer
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) & Digital Identity Leader
Dr. Ebenezer John Hayford is a distinguished Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) with over 25 years of expertise in designing, implementing, and delivering cutting-edge cybersecurity programs across high-profile organizations, including the United Arab Emirates Government, Abu Dhabi Police, Dubai Customs, NATO, and currently the UK Ministry of Justice (MOJ). Leading initiatives in Digital Identities, Identity and Access Management (IAM), and Privileged Access Management (PAM), he specializes in integrating identity tools such as Microsoft Entra ID, CyberArk, Ping Identity, and Okta to fortify national security and organizational resilience.
Throughout his career, Dr. Hayford has played a pivotal role in shaping digital identity strategies and strengthening cybersecurity infrastructures. His expertise extends to identity federation protocols like SAML, OAuth, and OIDC, enabling secure single sign-on solutions across complex digital ecosystems. A firm believer in automation, he leverages SCIM provisioning protocols to streamline user provisioning and enhance access management systems—solutions that impact millions of users globally, improving productivity and security at scale.
Beyond his technical prowess, Dr. Hayford is deeply passionate about governance, security, and the cultural aspects of technology. He approaches leadership with a 10/10 philosophy, where great attitude meets great performance, ensuring that expectations and respect are seamlessly aligned. He thrives in high-stakes environments, advocating for a balanced, patient, and persistent approach to digital transformation—where sometimes, slower is faster, and to lead, one must first follow.
Since 2003, he has spearheaded digital transformation initiatives across mobility, enterprise security, and IT service management, enabling organizations to reduce total cost of ownership while maximizing efficiency. His pragmatic approach to technology solutions and business strategy has made him a trusted advisor across diverse industries, from multinational corporations and government agencies to SMEs.
Dr. Hayford’s impact extends beyond cybersecurity—he is a leader in business engagement and change management, helping organizations enhance workforce authentication, boost staff engagement, reduce turnover, and drive sales conversion rates. With strong emotional intelligence and strategic vision, he ensures that security and innovation go hand in hand, creating a safer, more efficient digital world.