#USA #Cybersecurity #Frisco #HITRUST #TPRM

HITRUST Strengthens Cybersecurity Leadership with New Appointment

In the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, effective leadership is critical. Recently, HITRUST, a recognized leader in information security assurance aimed at risk management and compliance, announced an exciting new development: the appointment of Tom Kellermann as Vice President of Cyber Risk. This move is expected to enhance HITRUST's leadership within the cybersecurity domain and broaden its market reach.

Who is Tom Kellermann?

Tom Kellermann is a veteran in the cybersecurity field, boasting over two decades of experience in strategy, risk management, and policy development. His impressive background includes positions in both the public and private sectors, which means he has a well-rounded perspective on the challenges and opportunities present in today’s cybersecurity landscape. Notably, he has served as Chief Cybersecurity Officer at Carbon Black Inc. and as Head of Cybersecurity Strategy for VMware. Additionally, Kellermann was the Deputy Chief Information Security Officer for the World Bank Treasury, showcasing a robust government background that will inform his strategic direction at HITRUST.

Focus on Third-Party Risk Management (TPRM)

One of the significant issues that Kellermann will address in his new role is Third Party Risk Management (TPRM). Statistics from Verizon's 2025 Data Breach Investigations Report highlight that a staggering 30% of all data breaches involve third-party vendors. Kellermann will lead HITRUST’s initiatives to improve supply chain security and bolster organizational resilience through innovative TPRM strategies. This is crucial in a climate where businesses must manage a complex web of vendor relationships that could lead to vulnerabilities in their cybersecurity posture.

Kellermann’s vision for TPRM emphasizes a practical approach that leverages HITRUST’s comprehensive portfolio of threat-adaptive security assessments. These assessments promise to integrate operational enablement tools designed to streamline risk management processes, reduce costs, and strengthen security protocols across various sectors.

Driving Industry Engagement

Kellermann will not only oversee internal strategies but is also set to engage with industry leaders and regulatory bodies to promote best practices in cybersecurity. His insights will be invaluable as HITRUST continues to enact measures that assure businesses and customers alike about their risk management capabilities. By cultivating partnerships and facilitating conversations around security resilience, HITRUST aims to reinforce the community’s approach to managing cyber threats.

Blake Sutherland, the Executive Vice President of Market Engagement at HITRUST, expressed enthusiasm about Kellermann's joining, stating, “His unique combination of government advisory experience and private sector cybersecurity leadership makes him an invaluable addition as we continue to help organizations achieve unmatched cyber resilience.”

Commitment to Cybersecurity Assurance

Kellermann’s introduction to HITRUST is aligned with the organization’s long-standing commitment to maintaining accountability in cybersecurity assurances. According to HITRUST's 2025 Trust Report, firms that achieve HITRUST certifications see markedly lower breach rates, reporting an incident rate of merely 0.59% in 2024 compared to those lacking certification.

Kellermann’s appointment reflects not just an internal strengthening of HITRUST's capabilities but a broader commitment to fostering a culture of security across organizations. He notes, “I’m excited to join HITRUST at a time when organizations need more than ever to demonstrate measurable cybersecurity outcomes.” His presence is expected to enhance understanding of cyber risk management practices profoundly.

Educational Contributions

In addition to his managerial skills, Kellermann has made notable contributions to the field of cybersecurity education. He served as an adjunct professor teaching courses on cybercrime at institutions like American University and was appointed as a Global Fellow for Cyber Policy at the Wilson Center. His involvement in academia showcases his commitment to building tomorrow's leaders in cybersecurity.

Conclusion

With Tom Kellermann at the helm of cyber risk management, HITRUST is poised to enhance its reputation as a gold standard in cybersecurity assurances. His strategic vision and rich experience promise to lead organizations toward inspired risk management and security compliance, making measurable impacts across industries. As threats continue to evolve, strong leaders like Kellermann will be essential in forging resilient pathways for businesses navigating the complexities of the digital landscape.