The public sector faces unique cybersecurity challenges, from safeguarding sensitive citizen data to securing critical infrastructure and enabling digital services for millions of residents. West Coast state governments are leading in innovative approaches to cybersecurity, and the CISOs at the helm of these initiatives are driving programs that combine strategic foresight, operational excellence, and technical expertise. These leaders not only protect systems and data but also foster collaboration, influence policy, and cultivate resilient teams to prepare for an increasingly complex threat landscape.
Vitaliy Panych – Chief Information Security Officer, State of California
Vitaliy Panych is a nationally recognized and award-winning Chief Information Security Officer with a passion for enhancing privacy and cyber resilience in the public sector. He has successfully built large-scale information security programs to protect California’s critical infrastructure and millions of residents. Vitaliy actively participates in industry associations to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the cybersecurity community and serves on multiple academic advisory boards to help nurture the next generation of cyber professionals. His approach aligns cybersecurity strategies with business objectives, ensuring both security and reliable innovation. With extensive experience securing cloud-native environments and high-transactional systems, Vitaliy has architected programs that interface with private, local, and federal partners, reinforcing both security and operational efficiency.
Warren Gordon, MBA, MS – Deputy Chief Information Security Officer, Washington Technology Solutions
Warren Gordon brings extensive experience leading organizations that provide cybersecurity services, cloud managed services, and enterprise IT solutions. He has guided strategic initiatives across Washington State, ensuring that technology programs are resilient, secure, and aligned with state operational priorities. Known for his strategic vision and ability to bridge technical and executive perspectives, Warren delivers programs that protect critical state systems while enabling digital innovation.
Ben Gherezgiher – Chief Information Security Officer, State of Oregon
Ben Gherezgiher serves as Oregon’s Chief Information Security Officer and Single Point of Contact for FirstNet. With over 30 years in IT leadership, primarily in public safety and security, he has a long history supporting law enforcement and justice systems. Ben’s experience includes serving as division director for the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and deputy CIO overseeing 14 public safety agencies. Since joining Oregon’s Office of Enterprise Information Services, he has led initiatives to unify IT services and strengthen security frameworks across the state, focusing on public safety, risk management, and operational resilience.
Ryan Murray – Deputy Director and Chief Information Security Officer, State of Arizona
Ryan Murray is an experienced information security professional with nearly 20 years of service in state and local government. He currently serves as Deputy Director for Arizona Cyber Command and Deputy CISO for the State of Arizona, providing both tactical and strategic leadership across cybersecurity programs. Previously, he was Chief Information Security Officer for the Arizona Department of Revenue. Ryan holds CISSP and CCSP certifications and a Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance. His work emphasizes aligning operational cyber programs with executive strategy, ensuring the state’s IT infrastructure remains secure, compliant, and resilient.
Dan Monarch – Chief Information Security Officer, State of Alaska
Dan Monarch is a results-driven senior executive with extensive experience in IT management, cybersecurity, and project leadership. He has a strong record of improving profitability, optimizing processes, and enhancing security programs to defend against evolving threats. Dan’s leadership spans IT operations, telecommunications, and start-up environments, with a focus on building teams capable of delivering complex initiatives while ensuring state systems remain secure and operationally efficient.
Public Sector Cybersecurity Leadership in Action
These West Coast CISOs exemplify how leadership, technical expertise, and strategic foresight can protect millions of residents while enabling digital transformation. Their work ensures that state governments remain resilient, secure, and adaptive in an era of evolving cyber threats. Beyond just protecting systems and data, these leaders drive organizational change, strengthen governance, and foster a culture of security awareness across all levels of government. By balancing strategic vision with operational execution, they not only safeguard public assets but also support innovation, improve public services, and build trust with citizens and stakeholders alike. Their efforts highlight the critical role that skilled, forward-thinking CISOs play in shaping the future of secure, modern state government operations.