Boston is home to a strong cybersecurity community that includes major enterprises, biotech innovators, financial institutions, and fast-growing tech companies. These security leaders stand out for their impact, leadership style, and commitment to building strong and resilient programs.
Eric Boateng, CISO at MassMutual
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boateng/
Eric leads enterprise cybersecurity for MassMutual. He is well regarded for managing complex global security operations in a highly regulated financial environment and for building long-term resilience across the organization.
Pietr Lindahl, CISO at Hologic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pietr-lindahl-09344a27/
Pietr oversees information security for Hologic, a major medical technology company. His work focuses on securing large-scale operations and protecting sensitive healthcare systems.
Richard Walzer, CISO at Clean Harbors
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardwalzer/
Richard manages cybersecurity for Clean Harbors, a leader in environmental and industrial services. His approach supports operational continuity and strong risk oversight in a demanding sector.
Eric Galis, SVP and CISO at Cengage Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericgalis/
Eric guides security strategy for Cengage, a large education technology company. He focuses on protecting student data, strengthening privacy practices, and supporting secure digital learning platforms.
Debby Briggs, VP and CISO at NETSCOUT Systems
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deb-briggs-b273822/
Debby is a well-respected leader in Boston’s tech community. She brings deep experience in network security and helps shape security strategy for mid-size and enterprise organizations.
Christian Hamer, VP and Head of Information Security at ElevateBio
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianhamer/
Christian directs cybersecurity for ElevateBio, a fast-growing biotechnology company. His work supports scientific research, manufacturing operations, and the protection of sensitive data.
Chandra McMahon, SVP and CISO at CVS Health
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chandra-mcmahon-b61664/
Chandra leads cybersecurity for CVS Health, one of the largest healthcare and retail organizations in the country. She is also recognized for promoting strong team culture and mentorship in the security field.
Julie Fitton, CISO at Analog Devices
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-fitton-b085b23/
Julie oversees security for Analog Devices, a global semiconductor company. She also plays an active role in Boston’s CISO community and guides industry discussions on cloud, governance, and data protection.
Brian McGowan, CISO at SharkNinja
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-mcgowan-155a41/
Brian leads cybersecurity for SharkNinja, a global consumer products company. He focuses on product security, data protection, and secure operations across both digital and physical product lines.
Javed Ikbal, VP and CISO at Bright Horizons
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/javedikbal/
Javed directs information security for Bright Horizons, a global provider of education and family services. His work highlights the importance of privacy, trust, and compliance for organizations that support children and families.
Boston continues to build its reputation as a cybersecurity leader. These CISOs push the industry forward through strong leadership, technical expertise, and a commitment to building secure and resilient organizations. They reflect the strength and diversity of Boston’s growing security landscape.