Mark Adjei
Shaping Cyber Security
Through Innovation,
Strategy, and Mentorship
Coach Ouch
Playbook-Driven Cyber Defense:
Strategy,
Adaptability,
Execution
Available for speaking engagements, CISO consulting, mentorship, and strategic collaborations.
Engage With Me
What Sets Us Apart
Cyber Security Expert
Hello
I'm Mark Adjei—proudly known as 'Gã Mantse.' Rooted in the vibrant tapestry of my Ghanaian heritage and shaped by my upbringing in the UK, I carry with me the core values of perseverance, empathy, and integrity instilled by my family. These principles have been my compass throughout my 25-year journey in cybersecurity and technology.
As the CISO and Cyber Security Risk Advisory & Governance Lead at UBS, I’m at the forefront of safeguarding global financial systems against the ever-evolving threat landscape. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of leading transformative cybersecurity initiatives across the financial, professional services, and energy sectors. From spearheading a groundbreaking global, regulatory-aligned cyber investigation that bolstered UBS’s security posture to conducting Cyber Threat Intelligence Audits and e-banking infrastructure reviews, I thrive on developing innovative risk mitigation strategies and ensuring regulatory compliance.
My approach to cybersecurity is built on a foundation of expertise in frameworks like NIST, ISO 27001, and MITRE ATT&CK. By blending strategic foresight with technical acumen, I design resilient security architectures that meet the complex demands of the global financial industry.
I’m honored to have been nominated twice for the Black Technology Awards (2023, 2024) in recognition of my contributions to cybersecurity innovation, industry leadership, and my advocacy for diversity. For me, this journey isn’t just about safeguarding systems—it's about setting new standards for the industry and building a legacy of inclusion.
Beyond the office, I’m deeply committed to championing diversity and representation, particularly for Black tech professionals aspiring to leadership roles. Mentorship is a key part of this mission. Whether it’s coaching American football in urban communities or guiding the next generation of tech leaders, I focus on teaching strategic thinking, discipline, and teamwork—skills that transcend both the playing field and the boardroom.
Cybersecurity is more than my profession; it’s my passion and my purpose.
Together, let’s shape a safer, more inclusive digital future.
What Sets Us Apart
Cyber Security Expert
Advocacy and sharing knowledge are at the heart of everything I do. Whether it's shaping conversations or simplifying complex ideas, I believe in the power of dialogue to drive change.
As a CIONET Signatory Panel Member, I contribute to shaping global discussions around technology and cybersecurity governance. Moderating and speaking at Pulse Conferences and other international panels is a privilege—these are arenas where ideas spark action and strategies transform industries.
When it comes to Industry Forums and Keynote Speaking, I see every stage as an opportunity to make cybersecurity relatable. Translating intricate risk landscapes into actionable insights is my goal, whether I’m addressing financial summits or risk management gatherings. I often say,
“A well-secured network is like a well-guarded treasure; it thrives on constant vigilance and layers of wisdom.”
Through Cybersecurity Education and Outreach, I support initiatives to build cyber awareness, strengthen governance, and demystify risk management within enterprises. Sharing knowledge isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a passion. After all, in cybersecurity,
“an educated team is the first line of defense.”
As a Cybersecurity Advocate, I’ve had the privilege of speaking at various global forums, contributing to the collective knowledge that drives the security landscape forward. It’s a fulfilling challenge to not just analyze threats but also to inspire resilience.
Equally close to my heart is Mentorship and Inclusion. Empowering the next generation of Black tech professionals is an ongoing mission of mine. The journey toward a more inclusive and diverse tech industry is far from over, but each step counts. I see mentorship as a ripple effect; by sharing lessons and opportunities, we create waves of change.
A favourite cyber thought I carry with me:
“The strongest firewalls are built not from code alone, but from shared purpose, collective expertise, and unwavering commitment.”
This mantra fuels both my professional endeavors and my dedication to lifting others as I climb.
What Sets Us Apart
Cyber Security Expert
AMERICAN FOOTBALL &
CYBER SECURITY
Playing American football in the UK and Europe for a decade has given me a unique perspective on the game and its strategic elements. My time on the field—analyzing opponents, coordinating plays, and adapting strategies—has shaped the way I approach challenges. The mindset I honed through football aligns closely with what’s needed in cybersecurity.
Whether it’s executing offensive plays, maintaining a strong defense, or relying on special teams, I’ve come to deeply value teamwork, adaptability, and quick thinking. These skills easily translate into effective cybersecurity tactics, where strategy, resilience, and collaboration are just as crucial as they are on the field.
American football is not just about physicality; it’s about intelligence, preparation, and adaptability. Success comes from studying opponents, making real-time adjustments, and executing game plans efficiently. Similarly, Cybersecurity operates in a high-stakes battlefield where adversaries adapt, requiring strategic thinking and layered defenses to protect critical systems.
By diving deeper into these parallels, we can develop a robust cybersecurity strategy inspired by American football principles.
🏈 Game Planning:
Scouting the Opponent (
Cyber Threat Intelligence & Risk Management)
🏈 Offense:
Gaining Yardage & Protecting Assets (Proactive Cybersecurity Measures)
🏈 Defense:
Preventing the Opponent from Scoring (Cybersecurity Defense-in-Depth)
🏈 Special Teams:
The Hidden X-Factor
(Cybersecurity Operations & Response Teams)
What Sets Us Apart
Cyber Security Expert
Mentorship &
Grassroots Engagement
Beyond my professional success, I am deeply invested in mentorship and youth empowerment. Through my role as a coach in American football, I have instilled the principles of discipline, perseverance, and strategic execution in young individuals, many of whom have gone on to excel in STEM careers and leadership positions.
PLATFORMS TO LEARN CYBER SECURITY
CERTIFICATION
WEBSITES
NEWS CHANNELS
You Tube
APPS
What Sets Us Apart
Cyber Security Expert
Rooted in Rhythm
At the heart of everything I do are the people who matter most—family and friends. They’re my foundation, offering steady support and constant inspiration.
Then there's music—my lifelong companion and creative fuel. I'm drawn to sounds that move with soul and intention: Soul Rare Groove, Hip Hop, High Life, Afrobeats, Jazz Funk, and especially Amapiano. Each genre is its own journey, connecting cultures, emotions, and eras in ways that words often can’t.
Travel has only deepened this passion. Every new place brings new rhythms, textures, and stories—broadening not just my playlists but my perspective.
Amapiano, in particular, speaks to how I see the world. Its pulse mirrors the way I work: precise, fluid, adaptive. Like a DJ reading the room, I approach challenges with a mix of intuition, strategy, and flow.
Music doesn’t just inspire me—it shapes how I think, connect, and create.
Curious what that sounds like?
Contributions & Professional Highlights
01
Regulatory Cyber Framework Overhaul
I led a regulatory-driven investigation meeting Federal Reserve Bank NY and HKMA standards. This uncovered critical weaknesses in a financial firm’s cyber framework, resulting in revamped Cyber Response Plans. These efforts not only ensured compliance but also boosted the organization’s ability to detect, mitigate, and respond to advanced cyber threats.
02
Cyber Threat Intelligence Leadership
Steering a high-impact audit, I identified and addressed gaps in threat enrichment, detection, and response systems. My strategic interventions bolstered real-time threat intelligence, improved risk assessment capabilities, and enhanced incident management processes, greatly strengthening the firm’s resilience against emerging cyber threats.
03
e-Banking Infrastructure Security
I conducted a detailed security review of e-banking infrastructure, uncovering risks that threatened financial and regulatory integrity. By resolving vulnerabilities, I significantly strengthened digital banking security, ensuring seamless, secure operations while fostering stakeholder trust and reducing exposure to cyber threats.
04
Critical Infrastructure Protection & Business
Resilience
I developed and implemented a Tier Zero continuity program to protect critical financial assets. This initiative provided a robust framework against cyber and physical disruptions, ensuring operational stability and business continuity, even under challenging conditions.