The National Assembly Secretariat is currently seeking a visionary tech leader to fill a critical dual role in Islamabad. This position combines the duties of a Director General (IT) and a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) under the MP-II scale. It is a high-stakes opportunity for a professional ready to drive digital transformation at the heart of Pakistan’s legislative branch.
If you have a background in cybersecurity and a proven track record of managing large-scale IT infrastructure, this role offers a platform to make a national impact. Below is a comprehensive look at the requirements, benefits, and application steps for this prestigious vacancy.
The Strategic Importance of the DG (IT) / CISO Role
In today’s digital world, protecting government data is more important than ever. The National Assembly is looking for a specialist who can protect digital assets while modernizing how the Secretariat operates. This isn’t just a maintenance job; it is a leadership position meant to shape the future of digital governance in the country.
The selected candidate will lead the Directorate of IT and act as the primary architect for cybersecurity strategies. This includes aligning the Assembly’s protocols with the National Cybersecurity Policy of 2021.
Salary and Benefits Package
One of the most notable aspects of this recruitment is the compensation. The position is offered at the MP-II Scale, which is highly competitive within the public sector.
- Monthly Pay: The total package is approximately one million rupees per month.
- Scale Equivalence: This pay scale includes allowances similar to those provided to BPS-21 employees of the National Assembly.
- Contract Duration: The initial appointment is for two years.
- Extensions: There is a possibility for yearly extensions based on performance reviews by a dedicated committee.
Academic and Professional Standards
The Secretariat has set high standards for this role to ensure the individual possesses deep technical expertise.
1. Educational Background
- A minimum of 16 years of education is required from an HEC-recognized or reputable international university.
- The degree must be in Cybersecurity, Information Security, Computer Science, or a related Engineering field.
- Candidates with an M.S. or Ph.D. in these fields are highly encouraged to apply.
2. Required Certifications
- Applicants must hold at least one top-tier professional certification, such as CISSP or CCISO.
- Additional sector-specific certifications like CCSP, SANS SEC-540, or ISO standards knowledge add significant value to an application.
Experience and Technical Expertise
The National Assembly is looking for a “seasoned” expert rather than someone just starting their career. The experience requirements vary based on your highest degree:
- Ph.D. Holders: At least 5 years of post-qualification experience, with 3 years in a senior leadership role.
- Master’s (MS) Holders: At least 7 years of post-qualification experience, including 3 years in senior leadership.
- Bachelor’s (16-year) Holders: At least 10 years of relevant post-qualification experience.
Key Skills Needed
The ideal candidate should have “hands-on” knowledge in several advanced areas:
- Emerging Tech: Deep understanding of AI security, Cloud Computing, and Blockchain.
- Security Tools: Proficiency with SIEM, EDR, Pen Testing, and Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW).
- Compliance: Experience with international frameworks like GDPR, NIST, and ISO 27001.
- Management: A track record of leading digital change in large organizations or government bodies.
Core Responsibilities and Duties
The job is divided into two main areas of focus: General IT Leadership and Information Security.
As Director General (IT)
- You will lead the entire IT Directorate of the National Assembly.
- You will create policies for digital transformation.
- You will identify areas where automation can improve efficiency through Business Process Re-engineering.
As Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
- You will build and enforce an enterprise-wide security strategy.
- You will conduct regular risk assessments and mitigate cyber threats.
- You will act as the main liaison with the National CERT and other regulatory groups.
- You will manage the Incident Response Plan (IRP) to handle any security breaches.
Terms of Service and Eligibility
There are specific legal and administrative conditions attached to this MP-scale position:
- Age Limit: The maximum age for applicants is 50 years.
- Conflict of Interest: You cannot hold any other job, business, or vocation while serving in this role.
- Resignation Requirement: If you are currently working in a different department, you must provide a retirement or resignation notification before joining.
- Location: The primary place of work is Islamabad.
- Notice Period: The contract can be terminated by either side with one month’s notice or one month’s basic pay.
High-Level IT Leadership Opportunity at the National Assembly of Pakistan Advertisement
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Interested candidates should not delay, as the application window is relatively short.
- Prepare Your CV: Ensure your Curriculum Vitae highlights your leadership roles and technical certifications clearly.
- Gather Documents: You will need copies of your degrees, certificates, and professional experience letters.
- Submit Within 10 Days: Applications must be submitted to the National Assembly Secretariat within 10 days of the advertisement date.
- Attestation: It is standard practice to ensure your documents are properly organized and valid for government review.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is this a permanent government job?
No, this is a contract-based appointment initially for two years, though it can be extended based on performance.
2. Can I apply if I don’t have a CISSP certification?
The advertisement lists CISSP, CCISO, or an equivalent top professional certification as a “mandatory requirement”.
3. What is the MP-II Scale?
MP stands for Management Pay Scale. MP-II is a high-level federal government pay scale designed to attract experts from the private sector or specialized fields into government service.
4. Is the salary really 1 million PKR?
Yes, the advertisement states the pay and allowances for the MP-II scale in this department are approximately one million rupees per month.
5. Where do I send my application?
Applications should be submitted to the National Assembly Secretariat in Islamabad. You should include your CV and all relevant educational and experience documents.
This is a rare opportunity to lead the digital defense and modernization of one of Pakistan’s most important institutions. If you have the technical grit and leadership experience, make sure to submit your application before the deadline.
