Top 10 CISOs - 2025

Mark McNamara is the President of Five Nines Consulting, a technology firm delivering IT strategy, cloud services, and cybersecurity solutions to small and mid-sized businesses. With deep expertise in digital transformation, he’s also a Forbes Technology Council member, regularly contributing thought leadership on innovation, infrastructure modernization, and emerging tech trends.

Anthony Vitello is a retired senior military officer with more than two decades of leadership experience in cyber operations, intelligence, and strategic planning across global conflict zones including Iraq, Afghanistan, and Korea. He excels in executive leadership, enterprise cybersecurity, IT risk management, and aligning strategic vision with operational execution.

David Ramirez is the Chief Information Security Officer at DRW, a global trading firm, where he leads comprehensive cybersecurity strategy and governance. With deep expertise in data security, risk management, and digital forensics, he is also an author, patent applicant, and certified leader advancing cybersecurity innovation and education.

Christopher Ward is a certified senior-level information security professional with a Master’s degree and extensive experience in designing and leading enterprise security programs. He specializes in security architecture, ISO27001, NIST, PCI, HIPAA, GDPR compliance, and threat mitigation, safeguarding Fortune 500 companies from advanced cyberattacks and insider threats.

Mark Fair serves as Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer at Five Below, a high-growth specialty retailer. He is known for fostering a positive and engaging work culture, emphasizing coaching, clear communication, accountability, and work-life balance to empower teams. His leadership philosophy centers on clarity, collaboration, and cultivating an environment where people thrive and perform at their best.

Sam Merrell is the CISO at Kennametal, leading global cybersecurity and compliance initiatives. With 20+ years’ experience, he established Kennametal’s first Security Operations Center and drives ISO 27001 and CMMC compliance. A published author and former Carnegie Mellon adjunct faculty, he’s committed to advancing organizational cyber resilience.

Tyron Fitzgerald is a strategic Chief Information Security Officer with a business-focused, risk-based approach to protecting assets across manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, forestry, banking, and aerospace. Holding a Master’s in Engineering Management, he combines technical expertise and leadership to drive organizational success in complex, regulated industries.

Keith Anderson is an accomplished Chief Information Security Officer with a strong track record of developing global cybersecurity programs for leading organizations across various industries. Known for his practical approach and high emotional intelligence, he skillfully balances risk management with business enablement, driving secure and effective operations through collaborative leadership.

Juan C. Rodriguez is an experienced Chief Information Security Officer and audit-risk manager with a strong record of creating and executing risk and security strategies. He is a results-driven leader in financial services, healthcare, insurance, and government sectors, with extensive international collaboration across Asia, Europe, Australia, and Latin America.

Thomas Dager serves as Chief Information Security Officer at Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), overseeing global information and cybersecurity. With over 20 years of experience, including military and law enforcement backgrounds, he expertly crafts and implements security strategies that align with business objectives and meet rigorous regulatory standards.