Shaping the Cybersecurity Program: Top Priorities and the Power of Mentorship with Michael Smith

Cyber Talks

In this episode, we explore Michael Smith's journey from an Air Force IT Manager to VP of Infrastructure and Operations at Trinity Industries, Inc., highlighting his pivotal roles and the cybersecurity landscape within the architecture, engineering, and construction sectors.

Michael shares insights on outsourcing cybersecurity teams, the strategic decision-making behind these choices, the evolving role of the CISO, and the importance of strategic positioning within an organization.

Michael emphasizes the strategic value of leadership positions and how the role that mentorship played in his transition from CISO to CIO while at Jacobs. The discussion also covers Michael's philosophy on leadership, focusing on extreme ownership and servant leadership, and how this influences his approach to new operational challenges.

Key takeaways include:

• The importance of adaptability and strategic thinking in advancing from technical roles to executive leadership in cybersecurity.
• Why mentorship and leadership development are critical for building resilient cybersecurity teams and fostering innovation.
• Strategic outsourcing vs. in-house team development: considerations for effective cybersecurity management.
• The evolving role of the CISO in organizational structures and the importance of C-level accountability and board engagement in cybersecurity.

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About Cyber Talks

From ransomware attacks to supply chain compromises, eSentire’s Cyber Talks podcast will delve into the world of the latest cyber threats that are impacting businesses globally. Join our team of security experts as we speak with C-level executives and security practitioners about the cyber risks affecting their business and how they’re addressing these challenges.

About eSentire

eSentire, Inc., the Authority in Managed Detection and Response (MDR), protects the critical data and applications of 2000+ organizations in 80+ countries, across 35 industries from known and unknown cyber threats by providing Exposure Management, Managed Detection and Response and Incident Response services designed to build an organization’s cyber resilience & prevent business disruption. Founded in 2001, eSentire protects the world’s most targeted organizations with 65% of its global base recognized as critical infrastructure, vital to economic health and stability. By combining open XDR platform technology, 24/7 threat hunting, and proven security operations leadership, eSentire's award-winning MDR services and team of experts help organizations anticipate, withstand and recover from cyberattacks. For more information, visit ⁠⁠⁠www.esentire.com⁠⁠⁠ and follow ⁠⁠⁠@eSentire⁠⁠⁠.