Professional Role and Responsibilities
Abdou-Naby Diaw serves as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and Vice President of Cyber Security and IT Cross Functional Processes at the Lufthansa Group, a position he has held since January 1, 2018. His remit includes comprehensive oversight of cybersecurity initiatives across Lufthansa’s IT infrastructure, focusing on next-level cyber security strategies and cross-functional IT security processes. Diaw is also recognized as Head of IT Central Functions within the group, highlighting his influence over integrated IT security governance and operational frameworks.
Organizational Context and Key Contributions
Under his leadership, Lufthansa Group has advanced in cyber resilience, hosting significant industry events such as the annual Lufthansa Group Cyber Security Conference and participating in prominent forums like the Handelsblatt Annual Cybersecurity Conference 2024. Diaw played a pivotal role in the successful TISAX assessment for Lufthansa Industry Solutions, underscoring compliance and robust security standards within the group's extended enterprise. He is actively engaged in global cybersecurity discourse, exemplified by his participation alongside other CISOs at events such as the Aviation Cybersecurity Summit 2025 in Zurich and collaboration with security leaders from Deutsche Telekom and Amadeus.
Experience and Expertise
Prior to joining Lufthansa, Abdou-Naby Diaw held the position of Chief Security Officer (CSO) at Vodafone Germany between 2012 and 2018, where he led multiple certification and standardization programs. His expertise spans across IT management, IT service delivery, IT security architecture, risk management, and compliance. Diaw’s academic background includes a Master of Science (1996–2000) from Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, supporting his technical and managerial proficiency in complex IT environments.
His professional skill set incorporates leadership in security operations centers, implementation of private cloud solutions for critical enterprise systems (e.g., SAP), and AI-driven threat response mechanisms. Notably, Lufthansa has integrated these approaches to increase operational stability and cost efficiency within IT security components under his guidance.
Industry Engagement and Recognition
Diaw is a seasoned speaker at cybersecurity conferences, including KuppingerCole European Identity & Cloud Conference 2023, and has contributed to expert panels on the future of cybersecurity and securing composable enterprises. His public presence is augmented by interviews and media appearances, such as on the German TV show Galileo (Pro 7), where he discusses Lufthansa’s security posture.
In recognition of his leadership, the Lufthansa Group—represented by Diaw—has received cybersecurity awards, such as those highlighted by NTT Security and IDG International. Furthermore, he is prominently involved in strategic dialogues regarding AI, quantum technologies, and cyber resilience in aviation, reflecting Lufthansa’s focus on innovative security solutions in an increasingly complex threat landscape.
Network and Influence
Based in Frankfurt, Germany, Abdou-Naby Diaw maintains a professional network exceeding 8,200 followers on LinkedIn with over 500 direct contacts, evidencing his strong industry presence and connectivity. His interactions demonstrate collaboration with key figures across industries, including top cybersecurity and telecom executives, enhancing Lufthansa's integration with broader security ecosystems.
This profile reflects Abdou-Naby Diaw as a highly experienced cybersecurity executive, blending strategic IT security leadership with operational delivery at one of the world’s largest aviation groups. His position and initiatives indicate Lufthansa Group’s prioritization of advanced cybersecurity frameworks, regulatory compliance, and innovation, providing a solid foundation for engagements requiring deep technical knowledge and industry insight.
