CISOs Connect Celebrates Cybersecurity Excellence with Inaugural DC100 Awards

CISOs Connect, known for fostering leadership in the cybersecurity sector, has proudly announced its inaugural DC100 Awards. This recognition honors the top 100 Deputy Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and similar second-in-command authorities, marking their critical roles in shaping the future of cybersecurity across various industries.

The DC100 Awards program aims to spotlight the hard work and dedication shown by these cybersecurity leaders. These professionals have demonstrated extraordinary strategic insight, operational excellence, and adaptability in an era characterized by ever-evolving threats. The award honors those who not only envision security strategies but also execute them effectively while mentoring the next generation of cybersecurity leaders.

The evaluation process for the DC100 was rigorous and conducted by an esteemed panel of expert judges, who ensured that the selection was strictly merit-based. The criteria included areas such as the scope of responsibility, innovation in security practices, and cross-functional leadership aptitude. Judges were tasked with identifying individuals who truly exemplify the qualities essential for the modern cybersecurity landscape.

Frank Aiello, a DC100 judge and CISO at Maximus, emphasized the important role Deputy CISOs play in the cybersecurity domain, stating, "Today's Deputy CISOs and their counterparts are the strategic architects behind our industry's most critical security initiatives. They are responsible for translating the CISO’s vision into actionable strategies that not only manage immediate risks but also prepare organizations for future challenges."

In addition to recognizing individual talents, the DC100 Awards build upon CISOs Connect’s portfolio of awards, which already includes the prestigious Top 100 CISOs Award (C100) and the Top 100 Accelerated CISOs Award (A100). All of these awards are dedicated to maintaining transparency, integrity, and merit in the recognition process. The goal is to highlight professionals based purely on objective performance benchmarks, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.

The DC100 CISO board of judges is composed of notable cybersecurity executives, each recognized for their leadership and commitment to the field. Some key members include Adam Ennamli from General Bank of Canada, Brian Fricke of City National Bank of Florida, and Heather Gantt-Evans from Marqeta. Their involvement assures that the evaluation process remains robust and credible.

Rushton James, another DC100 judge and VP CISO at Liberty Dental Plan, mentioned, "Recognizing our Deputy CISOs is essential for building a resilient security culture. The contributions of these leaders behind the scenes in managing risk and driving innovation cannot be overstated. The DC100 celebrates those who bring vision into execution and uplift the cybersecurity landscape across enterprises."

The awards also serve to inspire the rising talents within the cybersecurity field. Heather Gantt-Evans remarked on the impressive pool of talent at the deputy level, noting that these executives are managing increasingly sophisticated security programs and demonstrating the types of executive presence that will be crucial for the future of the industry.

CISOs Connect’s commitment to honoring impactful cybersecurity leaders is epitomized by David Cass, its President, who expressed the challenges faced during the selection process due to the overwhelming number of outstanding candidates. He reiterated the organization's dedication to acknowledging cybersecurity leaders who drive meaningful change.

Aimee Rhodes, the CEO, underscored the strategic significance of Deputy CISOs in the current organizational security landscape. She highlighted their role as vital linkages between tactical implementation and broader strategic vision. The DC100 not only recognizes individual achievements but signifies a larger mission to elevate the standards of cybersecurity leadership fundamentally.

In summary, the DC100 Awards represent an essential stride towards celebrating excellence within the cybersecurity community. By honoring Deputy CISOs, CISOs Connect reinforces its mission to cultivate leadership that is innovative, inclusive, and capable of navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing digital world.

About CISOs Connect

CISOs Connect is a distinguished, membership-based community aimed at senior cybersecurity professionals. Founded by CISOs to foster collaboration and information sharing, the community provides a peer-driven environment where cybersecurity leaders can explore innovative solutions to prevalent challenges, advance professional development, and cultivate a collaborative network globally.

Founded in North America, CISOs Connect is expanding its influence into Europe, the Middle East, and Australia, making strides toward becoming a global network for today’s elite security executives.