The Future of Security: Perspectives from CISOs
CYBERSECURITY TRACK / PANEL / ROOM 315-316 / APR. 9 AT 1:20 PM
About this session
Step into the evolving world of cybersecurity with a distinguished panel of Iowa-based Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) from a broad spectrum of industries, each bringing their deep insights and expertise to the table.
This session will navigate the future of cybersecurity, spotlighting crucial topics like the integration of artificial intelligence in security measures, combating ransomware, performing detailed risk assessments, and the imperative of investing in and upskilling the cybersecurity workforce.
Take advantage of this unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of cybersecurity’s changing landscape, guided by the experiences of Iowa’s leading industry experts.
Panelists
Jake Gibson
Chief Information Security Officer & VP
IT Operations
F&G
Jake Gibson is a seasoned business executive with over 25 years of leadership experience in information technology service management, operations, information security, risk management, and regulatory compliance. He currently holds the position of CISO / VP IT Operations at F&G.
Throughout his career, he has led teams of up to 200 members, focusing on client satisfaction and communication. He’s known for his expertise in creating robust information security programs, implementing effective policies, and fostering a security-conscious culture. Jake is knowledgeable in both cloud and traditional technologies, having managed data center relocations and transitions. He has navigated complex compliance frameworks and is well-versed in regulatory standards.
As a thought leader on topics like information security, cloud security, and compliance, Jake offers a unique perspective on the changing security landscape and looks forward to sharing his insights with you as a panel member.
Jason Popillion
Director of Automotive Aftermarket
SPS Commerce
A 31-year veteran of information technology software development, Jason brings a broad array of experience in software and infrastructure development as well as IT management and cybersecurity. Jason has served for 17 years as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of a SaaS company that SPS Commerce recently purchased. He also served as a Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (VCISO) for five years, assisting organizations worldwide on their SOC 2 Type 1 and SOC 2 Type 2 Attestations. He now leads enterprise artificial intelligence initiatives at SPS Commerce.
Jason is also the co-host of the “Cyber Distortion Podcast”. This podcast was created with the belief that, as a CISSP, it is important to give back and educate everyone possible on cybersecurity issues. The podcast features guests and topics covering all areas of cybersecurity. It has been endorsed by several cybersecurity professionals and is helping to “dispel the noise” by adding clarity to the topics.
Jason recently partnered with two other cybersecurity content creators, to form the Cyber Circus Network (CCN). The CCN is designed to leverage the collective expertise, innovative thinking, and extensive network within the cybersecurity industry to empower professionals, organizations, and enthusiasts through live podcasting events that educate, enlighten, and engage.
Ben Schmitt
Chief Information Security Officer
Mary Greeley Medical Center
Ben Schmitt serves as the Chief Information Security Officer at Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames, IA, with a focus on protecting data and identities through a product management lens. Prior to Mary Greeley Medical Center, Ben served as the VP of Product and Information Security at Dwolla, Global Director of IT Security and Compliance at Danfoss and Security Architect at TDS Telecom. Ben is a certified forensic investigator (GCFA) and Windows security administrator (GCWN).
Moderator
Ryan Schaap
Chief Information Officer
Wells Enterprises
Ryan Schaap joined Wells Enterprises in March 2015 as the Chief Information Officer, bringing over 20 years of experience in technology, cybersecurity, and merger and acquisition integrations. Ryan is a member of the executive leadership team at Wells and heads all of the technology organization, including infrastructure, applications and cybersecurity. He also directs the Wells Shared Services team, which includes many financial processing functions and the Robotic Process Automation group. Ryan also serves as a business leader who helps drive the company’s efforts related to eCommerce and acquisition integration efforts.
Prior to Wells, Ryan spent the majority of his career working in the energy industry. He worked for MidAmerican Energy and Berkshire Hathaway Energy for more than 18 years and served as their VP-IT. Ryan currently serves on several community boards, including membership on the Board of Directors for the Technology Association of Iowa where he is a past Board Chair. Ryan is also the Deputy member representative for Wells Enterprises on the Iowa Business Council and serves on advisory boards for several other technology services organizations. Ryan received his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Management Information Systems from Dordt College in Sioux Center, Iowa.
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