Charlotte’s tech and financial landscape continues to grow, and so does the need for strong cybersecurity leadership. The city is home to several seasoned CISOs who guide enterprise security, build resilient systems, and shape cyber strategy in fast-moving industries like banking, energy, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Below are ten CISOs in Charlotte who stand out for their work in risk management, threat response, governance, and long-term security planning.
Michael Palmer
Chief Information Security Officer, Truist Financial
Michael Palmer leads security for one of the largest financial institutions in the country. He oversees enterprise cyber strategy and plays a central role in protecting sensitive financial data across a complex, multi-state banking network.
Robyn Westervelt
Chief Information Security Officer, Novant Health
Robyn Westervelt guides security across Novant Health’s operations. She focuses on patient data privacy, clinical system resilience, and protecting hospital networks against evolving healthcare threats.
Brian Fricke
Chief Information Security Officer, BB&T Insurance Holdings
Brian Fricke manages cybersecurity for one of the country’s leading insurance groups. He focuses on secure digital processes, regulatory alignment, and improving cyber maturity across all business units.
Tim Snyder
Chief Information Security Officer, Duke Energy
Tim Snyder directs cybersecurity for critical energy infrastructure. He drives programs that secure operational technology, reduce risk exposure, and support the reliability of Duke Energy’s large regional network.
Nicole Ford
Chief Information Security Officer, Carrier
Based in the Charlotte area, Nicole Ford leads global cybersecurity strategy for Carrier. She supports secure product development, enterprise protection, and industrial systems security.
Jason Shockey
Chief Information Security Officer, Primary Guard
A cybersecurity founder and industry veteran, Jason Shockey leads security operations and advisory programs that help organizations strengthen their defense posture.
Kevin Gowen
Chief Information Security Officer, Synovus
Kevin Gowen supports banking security strategy with a focus on fraud prevention, regulatory compliance, and secure digital transformation across Synovus Financial.
Elaine Varelas
Chief Information Security Officer, Albemarle Corporation
Elaine Varelas oversees global security efforts for Albemarle, a leading chemicals and lithium producer. She works across manufacturing and industrial environments to ensure safe and resilient operations.
Mark Butler
Chief Information Security Officer, Globe Life
Mark Butler drives cyber strategy for Globe Life. He focuses on building a robust security governance model that protects sensitive policyholder information and supports regulatory demands.
William Chamberlin
Chief Information Security Officer, Honeywell Connected Enterprise
Based in Charlotte, William Chamberlin leads cybersecurity for Honeywell’s software and connected systems division. He guides secure product design, data protection, and enterprise resilience.
Charlotte’s cybersecurity leaders play a key role in protecting critical infrastructure, financial systems, and healthcare networks. Their work strengthens business resilience and supports the city’s position as a fast-growing hub for technology and innovation.