CISO of the Year Award
This award recognizes a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or equivalent leader who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a transformative impact on their organization’s security posture. Eligible nominees must be serving in public, private, or non-profit organizations and exemplify excellence in cybersecurity.
- Demonstrated Impact: Evidence of significant improvements to organizational security and resilience through innovative strategies and effective risk management.
- Leadership in Security Initiatives: Examples of successful cybersecurity programs, initiatives, or projects led by the nominee, showcasing their ability to drive organizational change and enhance security posture.
- Collaboration and Communication: Proven ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, senior leadership, and external stakeholders to achieve cybersecurity goals.
- Community Contributions: Contributions to the broader cybersecurity community, such as thought leadership, public advocacy, mentorship, or participation in industry forums and events.
- Advocacy for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Efforts to promote a more inclusive workplace, support underrepresented groups, or implement initiatives that enhance DEI within the cybersecurity field.
CISO to Watch Award
This award celebrates up-and-coming cybersecurity leaders. To qualify, nominees must have been serving as a CISO, Deputy CISO, or in a senior security leadership role for five years or less. Nominees should exhibit strong leadership potential, innovative problem-solving abilities, and a proactive approach to cybersecurity challenges, with demonstrable achievements that set them apart.
- Evidence of measurable and successful initiatives led within their organization.
- Examples of innovative and forward-thinking approaches to complex cybersecurity issues.
- Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and adapt within a rapidly evolving security landscape.
- Commitment to continuous improvement and contributions to team growth or industry advancement.
Lifetime Achievement Award
This award celebrates a cybersecurity leader with over 10 years of dedicated service to their organization and the wider community. Nominees should have a track record of innovation in the cybersecurity field and sustained community engagement and leadership.
- Measures of demonstrated impact to an organization and its people.
- Examples of innovation and leadership in launching new products or programs.
- Examples of change-making initiatives in facilitating more diversity in the field of cybersecurity.
- Where applicable, examples of current engagements through mentorship programs and community groups.
- Efforts to advance equity, accessibility, and inclusion in cybersecurity, including initiatives to create opportunities for underrepresented communities and address systemic barriers.
