gilbertotorres.com

Gilberto Torres

Chief Data Officer & IT Manager · Security, Privacy & Governance Expert

With over 15 years of IT experience spanning security, compliance, and strategic leadership, I specialise in designing resilient technology ecosystems that drive business value. My expertise bridges technical depth with executive vision, enabling organisations to navigate complex regulatory landscapes while fostering innovation. From GDPR frameworks to ISO 27001 certification, I build systems that protect data, reduce risk, and empower growth across European operations.

"Building Trust Through Technology Leadership"

Where Deep Expertise Meets Strategic Vision

🔐
Cybersecurity & Risk

Enterprise security architecture, threat assessment, ISO 27001 implementation, and comprehensive risk mitigation strategies.

📋
Data Governance

GDPR compliance frameworks, data privacy policies, regulatory alignment, and organisational data stewardship programs.

🖧
IT Infrastructure

Network design, systems administration, cloud architecture, disaster recovery planning, and technology optimisation.

📈
Strategic Leadership

Cross-functional team management, technology roadmapping, business development, and stakeholder alignment at executive levels.

Essensium and Mind · Leuven, Belgium
Chief Data Officer
& IT Manager

Leading enterprise-wide technology and data initiatives across European operations, I oversee IT infrastructure modernisation, cybersecurity posture, and comprehensive data governance programs. My focus includes GDPR compliance frameworks, ISO 27001 certification processes, and aligning technology strategy with business objectives to drive measurable outcomes.

  • Established robust data privacy frameworks achieving full regulatory compliance
  • Implemented ISO 27001 security standards across organisational operations
  • Enhanced staff engagement through strategic training and awareness programs
  • Optimised IT systems performance and disaster recovery capabilities
15+
Years IT Leadership
100%
GDPR & ISO 27001
Data Privacy & GDPR100%
ISO 27001 Implementation100%
IT Infrastructure Optimisation95%
Strategic Technology Alignment95%

Building From the Ground Up

2017 – 2025
Gforce Group
1
Gforce Group Founder

Built and scaled technology consulting operations across Portugal, delivering IT solutions and business development services to enterprise clients.

2015 – 2018
Gforce Networks Portugal
2
Gforce Networks Portugal CEO

Founded and led Portuguese operations, establishing market presence and delivering network infrastructure solutions to growing businesses.

2012 – 2018
Gforce Networks Belgium
3
Gforce Networks Belgium CEO

Launched Belgian technology services company, managing end-to-end operations from startup formation through client acquisition and service delivery.

A Career Across Sectors & Borders

Satnam Infosys
Business Development
2019 – 2025

Drove strategic business initiatives and client acquisition across six years, focusing on technology solutions and partnership development in the Indian market.

Facil
ICT Systems Administration
2023 – 2025

Managed comprehensive IT systems, ensuring operational excellence, security compliance, and technology infrastructure optimisation for enterprise operations.

Group AVEVE
Intel Security Specialist
2017

Implemented McAfee ePO security solutions, managing enterprise threat protection and security policy orchestration across organisational networks.

AT&T
Network Analyst
2010

Analysed network performance, optimised telecommunications infrastructure, and supported large-scale enterprise connectivity solutions for global operations.

Academic Foundation & Certifications

Academic Foundation
Vlerick Business School
SME Challenge Program
Business Administration & Management
2017
Syntra
Bedrijfs Beheer
Business Management
2012
Intec Brussel
ICT Security Specialist
Network Security & Infrastructure
2011
Cisco Network Academy
CCNA Certification
Network Engineering
2006
Specialised Certifications
GDPR Data Protection Officer (DPO)
Certified · July 2025
Data protection law, compliance & privacy governance
McAfee ePO 5.1
Enterprise security management and policy orchestration
Small Business Owner
Entrepreneurship and business formation fundamentals
Finance Foundations
Income tax management and financial planning
Startup Capital
Fundraising strategies and investor relations
Legal Entity Setup
Business structure and regulatory compliance
Global Communication Skills
Cross-cultural business communication and stakeholder management

Fluent Across Four Languages

Enabling seamless communication with international stakeholders, cross-border team leadership, and effective navigation of multicultural business environments.

Portuguese
Native
100%
Spanish
Native
100%
English
Full Professional
95%
Dutch
Full Professional
90%

Deep Technical Capability

Security & Compliance
  • GDPR framework implementation
  • ISO 27001 certification processes
  • McAfee ePO enterprise security
  • Threat assessment and mitigation
  • Cryptography and encryption
  • Security policy development
Infrastructure & Networks
  • Cisco network architecture
  • Windows Server 2003/2008/2012
  • Active Directory administration
  • ISA server configuration
  • Cloud infrastructure design
  • Disaster recovery systems
Leadership & Strategy
  • IT budget analysis and optimisation
  • Cross-functional team management
  • Technology roadmap development
  • Stakeholder communication
  • Business development strategy
  • Training program design
Let's Connect

Passionate About Building Secure,
Compliant & Innovative IT

Whether you're seeking strategic technology leadership, data governance expertise, or cybersecurity guidance, I bring proven experience and a results-driven approach to complex challenges.

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