Information security is an important part of running a successful business, with businesses across the globe relying on sensitive data that can make or break their company. In order to maintain information security, many businesses appoint a Chief Information Security Officer who oversees the protection of a company’s data.
What Is A CISO?
A CISO is an abbreviation for the job role of Chief Information Security Officer. A person who holds this position is a senior-level executive responsible for an organisation's information and technology security, ensuring that data is not corrupted or stolen. A CISO will develop, implement and enforce security policies that keep data safe and from the prying eyes of malicious criminals.
A CISO will:
- Develop and implement secure processes to prevent, detect, mitigate and recover from data attacks.
- Educate people on technology risks
- Build and drive security strategies that secure a company’s technology assets
- Implement and manage governance, risk and compliance processes
- Develop and implement ongoing security awareness training
Source: Cisco
What Qualifications Does A CISO Have?
A CISO should be a person with a strong understanding of information, security and technology who is able to communicate the complexities of security in an understandable manner. They should be a skilled leader and have previous experience in managing risk and may also require a degree in business or computer science.
They may also have certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional, Certified Information Systems Auditor or Certified Information Security Manager.
Source: TechTarget
Are There Different Kinds Of CISOs?
There are three common types of CISOs:
- Technical Information Security Officer
- Business Information Security Officer
- Strategic Information Security Officer
Source: Security Innovation
Is It Important To Have a CISO?
Recruiting a strong CISO is an important task in business, contributing to the strategy of effectively protecting an organisation and its critical data. However, despite the importance of a CISO, it is reported that 45% of companies do not employ a Chief Information Security Officer.
Source: WestMonroe & Security Magazine
How Can I Find Out More?
If you are looking to learn more about the importance of information security, book an information security speaker from our selection today!
Top Information Security Speakers To Hire
- Michelle McKenna
- Olga Botero
- Peter Cochrane
- Megan Smith
- Meri Williams
- Sir John Sawers
- Frank Abagnale
- Robert Pritchard
- James Whittaker
- Stu Hirst
- Dan Lohrmann
Michelle McKenna
Michelle McKenna has enjoyed a successful career overseeing the information security of some of the world’s biggest organisations. Having formerly worked as the Chief Information Officer of the National Football League and Universal Orlando Resort, Michelle has dedicated her career to overseeing the people, processes and technologies within businesses and ensuring that such information is kept safe and secure, implementing information security programmes.
Having also worked as the CIO of Constellation Energy and CIO of Centex Homes Destination Properties, Michelle is an expert in technology and operational change. When looking for a speech from an expert on all things information and managing the security of data, hire Michelle McKenna today.
Key Achievements:
- 2022 – Member of the Board of Directors for the WWE
- 2022 – Founder & CEO of Michelle McKenna Collaborative
- 2012 – Chief Information Officer for the National Football League
- 2011 – Chief Information Officer for Constellation Energy
- 2007 – Senior Vice President & Chief Information Officer of Universal Orlando Resort
- 1993 – Vice President of Theme Parks & Resorts for The Walt Disney Company
Olga Botero
A leading expert in technology strategy and security, Olga Botero has over 20 years of experience at the forefront of rapid developments in tech. Having worked as the Group CIO of Grupo Bancolumbia, Olga is an expert in devising technology strategies that will maintain the security of sensitive information. Currently the CEO of C&S Customer and Strategy, Olga is on a mission to increase understanding of IT transformation and technology strategies that will protect information.
Named on the Top 7 Women Leaders and awarded the Executive Scholar Award from the Kellogg School of Management, Olga is an influential expert on technology, telecommunications, emerging markets and IT transformation. When looking for a speaker whose expertise in technology will help you to learn the vulnerabilities in your information security strategy, hire Olga Botero today!
Speaking Topics:
- IT Transformations & Strategy
- Customer Experience & Management
- Emerging Markets
- Technology & Telecommunications
Peter Cochrane
Peter Cochrane is a leading British technologist, who has shaped his fortune as the former Chief BT Technologist. With over 40 years of impressive experience, Peter has worked in all aspects of adaptive system design, software, hardware, programming and technology operations. Famed for his role as Bristol University’s first Professor of Science and Technology, Peter has contributed his expertise to the likes of the Financial Times, the Economist, WIRED and the Daily Telegraph.
When booked to speak, Peter shares the prospects of new technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing and what needs to be done to keep information safe and secure in the face of new technology. Speaking on how successful attacks start with human fallibility and failure, Peter will help arm your company to maintain the security and integrity of information.
Testimonial:
"Great presentation – very thought provoking and entertaining." - Microsoft
Megan Smith
An award-winning tech entrepreneur, Megan Smith is famed as the former Chief Technical Officer for the United States of America. During her tenure as the CTO, Megan worked alongside then-President Barack Obama, creating a variety of technology strategies for the nation that kept sensitive information private from malicious hackers. Also overseeing the technological advancements of the nation, Megan led the pilot exploration of new technology.
Named as one of the 23 Most Powerful LGBTQ+ People in Tech 2019 by Business Insider and a World Economic Forum Technology Pioneer, Megan is now a popular speaker on information security and technology strategy. Empowering audiences to make the most of data and technological advancements, hire Megan Smith today to learn how to keep your information and technology safe.
Testimonial:
"Megan was excellent! She was personable, on-point, personalised the messaging and a true pleasure." - Exelon Innovation Expo
Meri Williams
Meri Williams is an experienced technology leader, famed for her former role as the Chief Technology Officer at Monzo, a mobile-first challenger bank used by thousands across the globe. Responsible for scaling up some of the world’s biggest businesses, Meri has formerly worked for the likes of Procter & Gamble and Marks & Spencer. Shaping Monzo into the leading bank it is today, Meri oversaw all technological operations for the business, including keeping thousands of people’s data and information safe and secure on the Monzo platform.
Having also been a member of the Government Digital Service and a Technology Advisor for Kindred Capital, Meri is a preeminent authority on technology and information security. An expert in scaling technology, Meri highlights the danger and risk of information security breaches that come with the advancement of new technologies. When looking for an inspirational technologist to speak at your next event, book Meri Williams today.
Sir John Sawers
A preeminent figure at the forefront of British security, Sir John Sawers is renowned for his role as the former Chief of MI6, the Secret Intelligence Service. Appointed both KCMG and GCMG for Services to National Security, John has also worked as the British Permanent Representative to the United Nations and the Director-General for Political Affairs at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. With a distinguished career in security to his name, John is an authoritative expert on information security and keeping the world’s most top-secret information from falling into the wrong hands.
Having also previously worked as the Principal Private Secretary to Douglas Hurd and Foreign Affairs Adviser under Prime Minister Tony Blair, Sir John Sawers is one of the most respected figures in governmental service. Now booked to speak as an expert on information security, John shares top tips on how to maintain the integrity and security of information in high-pressure environments.
Testimonial:
"John was fantastic yesterday, and his thoughts were very much appreciated by the attendees at our conference. Please do pass on our thanks and best regards to both him and Ian for their participation, as well as the professional way that they carried out the engagement." - Declan, Oak Hill Advisors
Frank Abagnale
Frank Abagnale has been convicted as a felon on numerous occasions throughout his life, renowned for targeting individuals and small businesses. After writing his autobiography, Catch Me If You Can, Frank was depicted by Leonardo DiCaprio in the Steven Spielberg film of the same name, propelling his story as a fraudster into the limelight for all to see. Frank was convicted for impersonating a pilot, physician and attorney, yet was given a lifeline when he was asked to help the federal government catch white-collar criminals during his time incarcerated.
Now the owner of Abagnale and Associates, Frank helps clients to protect confidential information and avoid information fraud. Conducting a series of speeches on identity theft, cybercrime and embezzlement, Frank is also an advocate for blockchain security and formerly spoke at the 2018 Blockchain Nation Conference. Having been a fraudster himself, Frank knows the ins and outs of information security and how information can be vulnerable to criminal activity.
Testimonial:
"Captivated- almost hypnotised that is the best way I can describe how 400 ADP associates reacted to your performance at the Short Hills Hilton. I have heard you speak several times over the years, but never have I seen an audience so totally consumed by your every word." - Automatic Data Processing
Robert Pritchard
Currently working as the Chief Information Security Officer for Cazoo, Robert Pritchard is a leading authority on cyber and technology security. Founder of The Cyber Security Expert, Robert has previously worked with the likes of the UK Government and the UK Ministry of Defence to create innovative solutions that will maintain the security of private information. Deputy Head of the UK’s Cyber Security Operations Centre, Robert is a preeminent figure in identifying threats to sensitive data and ensuring that the correct information security policies are in place.
Having also been an Associate Fellow for Cyber at The Royal United Services Institute, Robert Pritchard is a preeminent authority on information security. If you are looking to develop integral information security strategies, don’t hesitate in hiring Robert Pritchard today.
Key Achievements
- 2019 – Chief Information Security Officer for Cazoo & Director of the Cyber Capacity Unit
- 2012 – Founder of The Cyber Security Expert
- 2005 – Cybersecurity for the UK Ministry of Defence
- 2001 – Security Consultant for UBS
- 2000 – Network Management Consultant for Riversoft
- 1998 – Consultant for Tertio
- Associate Fellow in Cyber at The Royal United Services Institute
James Whittaker
James Whittaker has led a distinguished career in technology, earning his success as Engineering Director of Google, Distinguished Engineer and Technical Evangelist for Microsoft. Working behind the scenes for some of the biggest technology companies of the modern day, James has overseen the development of various software and hardware, and how information on them can be targeted. Having also been the Chief Technology Officer at Biscuit Labs and a Chief Strategy Officer for DefinedCrowd Corp, James encourages innovative thinking to keep technology and information safe from the hands of malicious criminals.
Having also formerly worked as a Programmer and System Admin for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, James has worked at the centre of one of the biggest intelligence and security services in the world. Now booked as a speaker, James has formerly spoken at the CIO Summit and is hired for his ability to identify the vulnerabilities of technology and information software, engaging audiences on how to best protect their information and assets.
Testimonial:
"I had the pleasure of meeting James and hearing him speak at the 2017 Midwest Digital Marketing Conference in St. Louis. His keynote was exceptional. In his address, he shared a clear and concise story that linked our past to our future. His delivery was insightful, funny, accessible and conveyed a clear message – the robot/ algorithm is a tsunami washing over the shores of society and is and will forever change everything. The takeaway – get ready. If you ever get the chance to meet James and hear his views, take it. You won’t be disappointed. His message will hopefully inspire you to take action now and prepare for your future. If you’re looking for a keynote at your next conference, don’t look any further than James, your audience won’t be disappointed." - Michael, Advisor & Author
Stu Hirst
Stu Hirst is a renowned expert on cloud security and information security, who is currently enjoying his role as the Chief Information Security Officer of Trustpilot. With a history working as the Interim Director of InfoSec for Just Eat, responsible for risk awareness, Head of Cloud Security for Photobox and Head of Security Systems for Capital One, Stu is a preeminent authority on keeping important information secure and safe from criminal activity.
With a decorated career in technology and security to his name, Stu is now booked as a speaker to share his expertise on the subject. Having also worked as a Security and Technical Analyst for Trainline and Information Technology Security manager for Skyscanner, Stu is on a mission to increase understanding of the importance of information security. Focussed on application security, cloud security, security operations, infosec risk and 3rd party culture and awareness, you can learn all there is to know on information security from Stu Hirst.
Testimonial:
"Stu has excellent technical skills, an ability to solve problems and seek out solutions and is always willing to contribute." - Charles, Support Engineer, Octopus Deploy
Dan Lorhmann
Dan Lohrmann is a world leading cyber security expert. As the Field Chief Information Security Officer for Presidio, he works in the public sector to provide global digital services and solutions. Prior to this appointment, Dan was the Chief Security Officer and Chief Strategist at Security Mentor Inc, Senior Network Engineer for Lockheed Martin and Technical Director for ManTech International.
As well as his public and private roles, Dan has also advised senior leaders in government, including at the White House, National Governors Association and US Department of Homeland Security. Notably, he led a cybersecurity and infrastructure team within the Michigan Government. As evidenced in his books, articles and keynote conferences, Dan has significant insight into security trends, the causes of cyber emergencies and the next generation of threats.
Testimonial:
“Dan is a pioneer in the cyber security and information assurance field. He has consistently been a national leader and has taken time to mentor and advise more junior security executives. He's a passionate public servant and an amazing leader.” - Jonathan, CISO and SVP of Solutions Architecture
Book an Information Security Speaker Today!
If you are interested in booking a speaker on information security, don’t hesitate in contacting Champions Speakers! Get in touch with one of our dedicated booking agents by calling directly on 0207 1010 553 or by completing our online contact form.
