People

Waqas is responsible for delivering global information security and privacy protection values to clients globally by partnering with business executives focusing on global brand value, data protection and enterprise risk management. Akkawi has been instrumental in positioning SIRVA as an industry leader in information security and privacy protection through his vision for continuous innovation in risk-based enterprise management.  His principle-centered security leadership is based on the ability to execute and deliver strong business value through cybersecurity architecture, and advanced threat protection using big data analytics.  He strongly believes that data privacy and cybersecurity are key business brand differentiators, especially in the era of a global interconnected economy.

Akkawi is a recognized thought leader in the industry of information security. Business executives and security partners alike seek his advice and opinion at roundtables and conferences for IT governance, privacy and cybersecurity strategy. He has been recognized by CSO Magazine and IDS Enterprise with the CSO50 prestigious award for security initiatives that demonstrated outstanding business value and thought leadership.. He has also received nominations for CISO of the Year Chicago 2014 by ISSA & AITP and 2014 Top 10 Breakaway Leaders in Security by Evanta. He co-authored “Protecting Critical Data in the Age of Global Mobility” for Mobility Magazine.

Akkawi earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from National Louis University in Chicago, Illinois and holds a Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications Certification from DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois. He holds certifications in Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) Certified Information Security Manger (CISM) and Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL). Waqas speaks fluent Arabic.