In an era where energy grids, transportation systems, water utilities, and telecom networks underpin every aspect of society, the role of the CISO has never been more critical. These leaders are safeguarding the infrastructures that keep the world running, blending operational expertise with cyber innovation. Here are some of the top CISOs shaping the security of our critical systems today.
Nasrin Rezai — SVP, Chief Information Security Officer, Verizon
A technical visionary with over 25 years of experience, Nasrin leads Verizon’s cybersecurity strategy across IT and OT environments. She has guided large-scale digital transformations, mergers and acquisitions, and infrastructure modernization while co-chairing government and industry forums on 5G, ORAN, virtualization, and cloud. Nasrin also serves as an Aspen Institute Cyber Security Group member and a technology advisor to multiple Silicon Valley companies.
James Shira — Global and US CIO & Global CISO, PwC
James focuses on enhancing technology infrastructure and governance to drive innovation and operational efficiency. Known as a change-oriented leader, he has built PwC’s US and global security functions, integrating emerging technologies and leading large-scale modernization programs across multiple sectors.
Jarell Mikell — Executive Director, Power Systems & Gas Cybersecurity, Southern Company
Jarell oversees a 60+ person team protecting Southern Company’s electric and gas operational environments. He has introduced agentic AI capabilities, modernized IT/OT boundaries, and strengthened incident response programs. Jarell also engages C-suite leaders and federal agencies to address emerging infrastructure risks.
Mohit Chanana — Chief Information Security Officer, Chevron Phillips Chemical Company
With over 30 years of experience, Mohit leads Chevron Phillips’ enterprise-wide security program spanning IT and OT. He has transformed cybersecurity into a strategic business enabler, improving compliance, executive engagement, and enterprise risk posture across critical chemical operations.
Christoph Strizik — Chief Information Security Officer, Medibank
Christoph is recognized for transforming security capabilities in large organizations across APAC, Europe, and the US. Leading Medibank, he builds business-aligned, high-performance teams and has earned accolades for fostering an inclusive and award-winning security culture.
Max Shier — VP, CISO, Amentum
A retired Air Force veteran with 29 years of combined security experience, Max specializes in organizational transformation, digital security programs, and efficiency-driven cybersecurity strategies. He has held previous leadership roles at Optiv and brings deep expertise in operational resilience.
Aaron Verdell Call — Chief Information Security Officer, Metropolitan Airports Commission
Aaron brings 17 years of experience managing secure and stable computing environments. He has strengthened government relationships, led IT infrastructure initiatives, and developed enterprise-wide risk management strategies across critical transportation systems.
Michael Gregg — Chief Information Officer | Director of Field Strategy, Palo Alto Networks
Recognized as one of North America’s Top 100 CISOs in 2023, Michael has built security programs from the ground up for Fortune 500 companies and government entities. He focuses on risk management, incident response, and optimizing cybersecurity operations for large-scale infrastructure.
Rich Baich — SVP/Chief Information Security Officer, AT&T
Rich is a seasoned executive leading AT&T’s global security strategy. With experience spanning corporate, government, and military environments, he balances risk management with innovative security deployments to protect complex telecommunications infrastructure.
Devender Kumar — Chief Information Security Officer, Persistent Systems
With over 30 years in cybersecurity, Devender leads Persistent Systems’ global security operations. He specializes in governance, application security, global SOC management, and OT/critical infrastructure protection, participating in Red Team/Blue Team exercises across multiple countries.
Param Vig — SVP, Chief Information Security Officer, Solventum
Param has over 30 years of experience in cybersecurity across healthcare, energy, water, food, and industrial manufacturing. He partners with Boards and Risk Committees to embed cybersecurity into business strategy, ensuring enterprise value and regulatory compliance.
Nuno Martins da Silveira Teodoro — VP, Group Cybersecurity & Interim Group Director of Technology, Solaris SE
Nuno leads Solaris Bank Group’s cybersecurity across seven locations and 1,000+ staff. He has successfully integrated technical and strategic oversight, aligning cybersecurity programs with business priorities for Europe’s leading Bank-as-a-Service provider.
Securing the World, One System at a Time
These CISOs are more than security leaders; they are guardians of the systems that power our daily lives. From energy grids to airports, water utilities to telecom networks, their leadership ensures resilience, innovation, and trust in the infrastructure that society depends on. As threats evolve, these professionals set the standard for what it means to secure the backbone of modern civilization.