Sir Rob Wainwright

Sir Rob Wainwright is a renowned cyber security expert, internationally recognised for his trailblazing work across financial crime, cyber threats, and geopolitical resilience. He brings deep real-world experience from his past roles as Executive Director of Europol and Group Chief Information Security Officer at UBS, a position he held until 2026. Having operated at the highest levels of both international law enforcement and global banking, he offers audiences a valuable insight into cyber risk, international security and protecting their business in the ever-changing modern day. 

Finding his passion for cyber security, in 1989, Rob graduated with a Bachelor of Science in International Relations and Affairs from the London School of Economics and Political Science. Shortly after, he joined the United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence as an Intelligence Analyst, where he gained valuable experience and developed his knowledge until 2000, when he joined Europol as the UK Bureau Chief. After some time at NCIS and SOCA as an International Director, he became the Executive Director at Europol. For nine years, Rob led the transformation of the business into the world-class security institution it is today by establishing the European Cybercrime Centre. After his tenure, he became a Partner at Deloitte, where he worked to advise organisations, before joining UBS in 2023 as a Group Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). 

Rob's incredible influence extends well beyond his job roles, as he has served as a Board Member and adviser for numerous companies, including the Centre for Cybersecurity at the World Economic Forum, Missing Children Europe, the Global Find to End Modern Slavery, Wilton Park and the Global Cyber Alliance. Previously the Chair of the Global Expert Group at the Global Coalition to Fight Financial Crime, he currently serves as a Non-Executive Director and a Board Member at RUSI Europe. Additionally, with a passion for sharing his expertise, he has been recognised as an Honorary Professor at the University of Nottingham's Centre for Conflict, Security and Terrorism, highlighting the widespread impact of his work. 

His exceptional contributions to international security have earned him extensive recognition throughout his career. In 2017, Rob received Honorary Fellowships from Cardiff University and the University of Exeter, before becoming a Distinguished Fellow of the Royal United Services Institute in 2018. That same year, he was knighted by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for his outstanding services to policing and security, followed by becoming a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Information Security in 2020. Through his distinguished career and continued contributions to global security, Rob remains an influential figure in cybersecurity, international intelligence and strategic leadership, making him a trusted voice who leaves audiences with an impact that lasts well beyond the applause.