San Diego has become a strong center for cybersecurity, attracting leaders who guide major organizations through complex risks. These CISOs play key roles in protecting healthcare, government, energy, and technology systems across the region. Each one brings experience, vision, and a steady approach to modern security challenges.
Brendan Daly
CISO, City of San Diego
Brendan leads the city’s cybersecurity program and oversees efforts that protect public services and local infrastructure. His work helps keep essential systems secure and available.
Sahan Fernando
CISO, Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego
Sahan manages security for one of California’s major pediatric hospitals. He focuses on safeguarding patient records, medical devices, and critical clinical operations.
Matt Xenakis
CISO, Fintech Company (San Diego)
Matt brings long experience in digital payments and financial security. He works on protecting customer data, preventing fraud, and securing cloud environments.
Omar Zevallos, P.E.
CISO and Cybersecurity Director, San Diego Gas & Electric
Omar leads the security strategy for a key utility in the region. His work spans industrial control systems, grid protection, and energy infrastructure resilience.
Terrence Weekes
CISO, Jack in the Box
Terrence oversees the security needs of a national restaurant chain based in San Diego. He guides efforts around enterprise security, data protection, and secure payment systems.
Jason Callahan
VP and CISO, Lam Research
Jason manages global cybersecurity for Lam Research, which supports the semiconductor and technology sector. He focuses on safeguarding intellectual property and protecting advanced manufacturing systems.
Patrick Higgins
CISO and VP of Information Technology
Patrick specializes in cloud security and enterprise IT strategy. He helps organizations strengthen their defenses while modernizing their infrastructures.
Michael Mitchell
VP and Chief Information Security Officer
Michael has experience in risk management, compliance, and incident response. He builds security programs that help organizations meet regulatory needs and improve resilience.
Mark Turner
CISO, CSO, CDO, and Head of Product Security
Mark works across several security domains including product security, data governance, and enterprise protection. He supports secure development and privacy-focused operations.
Christopher Hall
CISO
Christopher leads security for a complex organization and focuses on risk management, compliance, and operational readiness. His work helps maintain a strong security culture.
San Diego continues to build a strong cybersecurity community, driven by leaders who guide critical sectors through constant change. These CISOs shape the region’s security posture and help organizations stay prepared for new threats. Their work strengthens not only their companies but also the broader technology ecosystem across Southern California. If you follow cybersecurity trends or work in the field, these are the leaders worth watching.