Governance, Risk and Compliance Lead (CIO-2026-108-LD)

We are looking for a Governance, Risk and Compliance Lead to join CERN's Office of the CIO. CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, operates the world's largest scientific instruments to explore the fundamental particles and forces that shape our universe. In this role you will advise senior management and governance bodies on data governance, architecture, cybersecurity, ICT risk and compliance, helping to build coherent and sustainable frameworks for data and technology across the laboratory's highly distributed environment. Your day‑to‑day work will involve leading and coordinating all Governance, Risk and Compliance activities within the Office of the CIO. You will drive alignment among the various departments, experiments and technical stakeholders while respecting the federated responsibilities of each unit. In addition, you will oversee technology‑risk, compliance, audit and vendor‑governance processes, working closely with the cybersecurity team and other specialist functions to ensure that risks are identified, assessed and mitigated in a timely manner. To succeed, you must hold a Master's degree, PhD or an equivalent level of experience in Information Technology or a related discipline. You need proven ability to define and lead enterprise‑wide policy and governance frameworks covering data governance, enterprise architecture and technology risk. Extensive experience influencing senior stakeholders and steering cross‑organisation collaboration is essential, as is a demonstrated capacity to operate strategically in a federated setting with distributed responsibilities. Strong background in enterprise risk, compliance and assurance frameworks, together with a broad understanding of cybersecurity and related risk models, is required. Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, and you must be prepared to work nights, Sundays and official holidays when the organization's needs dictate. The position offers a limited‑duration contract of five years, with the possibility of extension up to eight years and eligibility for an indefinite contract. Working hours are 40 hours per week with hybrid flexibility. CERN provides a tax‑free competitive salary, 30 days of paid leave plus a two‑week annual closure, comprehensive health insurance for you and your family, pension fund membership, family allowances and a relocation package where applicable. You will become part of a diverse, inclusive community that values innovation, collaboration and the pursuit of scientific discovery at the frontiers of knowledge. What the role asks for: - Master's degree or PhD in IT or related field - Define and lead enterprise policy and governance frameworks - Influence senior stakeholders and lead cross‑organisation collaboration - Operate strategically in a federated environment with distributed responsibilities - Strong experience in enterprise risk, compliance and assurance frameworks - Broad understanding of cybersecurity and related risk frameworks - Spoken and written English; commitment to learn French - Availability for work nights, Sundays and official holidays when required