Yasser Alswailem is a distinguished cybersecurity and business transformation executive with over 20 years of leadership across telecom, financial services, defense, law enforcement, and government sectors. Currently serving as Chief Executive Officer of sirar by stc in Riyadh, Yasser is at the forefront of strengthening Saudi Arabia’s cybersecurity infrastructure while accelerating digital innovation and resilience in alignment with رؤية السعودية 2030.
Driving Cybersecurity Excellence at National Scale
Throughout his career, Yasser has spearheaded aggressive cybersecurity strategies, guiding critical investment planning, technology roadmaps, and risk mitigation efforts across the STC Group. His leadership in orchestrating cybersecurity transformation programs significantly enhanced STC’s capabilities and compliance posture, securing the nation’s digital backbone which powers over 60% of Saudi communications. This includes the standardization of cybersecurity protocols across subsidiaries in the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
Strategic Advisor and Industry Influencer
Yasser’s influence extends beyond organizational boundaries as a trusted advisor to major government agencies and a key contributor to national cybersecurity initiatives. He pioneered the establishment of Saudi Arabia’s first world-class Managed Security Service Center (Raqeeb) in 2007, setting new standards in the GCC for cyber defense. His expertise is frequently sought in global cybersecurity forums, where he advocates for collective security approaches, data privacy, and digital trust frameworks.
Championing Capacity Building and Talent Development
Yasser is passionate about cultivating cybersecurity talent and has led large-scale capacity development programs for security and defense organizations across the GCC. He was instrumental in organizing the landmark 2017 Hackathon which facilitated internship opportunities for high-potential Saudi youth within STC, reflecting his commitment to developing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
Qualifications and Global Perspective
Holding a Bachelor of Science degree from جامعة الملك سعود, Yasser has pursued advanced executive education in strategy and innovation at MIT Sloan School of Management and completed a range of prestigious industry certifications including CISSP, CISM, CEH, and CHFI. His global vision is matched by his deep understanding of local regulatory frameworks such as those of the CITC and the National Cybersecurity Authority الهيئة الوطنية للأمن السيبراني.
Vision for the Future
Yasser Alswailem envisions a digital cyber space that is secure, resilient, and inclusive—where individuals, organizations, and governments can thrive in trust and safety. His leadership is dedicated to embedding cybersecurity as a strategic enabler for economic growth, innovation, and societal benefit in Saudi Arabia and the broader region.
Leadership Quote
Cybersecurity is not just a technical challenge but a cornerstone for enabling confident digital transformation and national progress.
Inspired Magazine proudly recognizes Yasser Alswailem as one of the amazing leaders in the Founders & CEOs category for his visionary leadership, transformative impact, and unwavering commitment to securing the digital future of Saudi Arabia.
