The 2025 Legends of Cybersecurity celebrates industry leaders who paved the path in modern threat detection and response. These innovators were among the first to use AI-driven intelligence and automation to outpace attackers, transform SOC operations, and set new standards for protecting hybrid networks.
We’re proud to honor these trailblazers for pushing the boundaries of cybersecurity and shaping the future of threat defense.
In healthcare, cybersecurity isn’t just about protecting data, it’s about protecting people. Wes understands that responsibility deeply and brings thoughtful leadership to the Harris Center for Mental Health every step of the way.
Andrea Licciardi has always approached cybersecurity with both technical rigor and a clear sense of purpose. At MAIRE Group, he was quick to recognize the role Network Detection and Response could play in strengthening defenses and driving smarter decision-making. A leader who saw the value early and never looked back.
Seb brings deep expertise to every conversation — from threat hunting to building smarter security operations. As Head of Operations & Security Expertise at Advens, he’s been a trusted voice in driving adoption of NDR and helping customers act with greater precision.
With a strong belief in doing what’s right for both patients and practitioners, Chief Information Security Officer Connie Barrera has helped Jackson Health System build a more secure future. Her early support for NDR reflects a thoughtful approach to protecting patient care while minimizing disruption to those delivering it. Not to mention, she's one of the kindest professionals we've come to get to know!
Jakob Premrn brings sharp insight and hands-on expertise to the complexities of the modern network. At a Fortune 500 company, he’s helping build more resilient defenses while pushing cybersecurity strategy forward. Through his blog, he shares lessons and perspective drawn from the field.
Anton Reynaldo Bonifacio is the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at Globe Telecom, one of the largest mobile network providers in the Philippines. He’s redefined what it means to lead in cybersecurity and AI, guiding strategy on both fronts and building one of the most integrated security and privacy teams in the industry.
Doug's path into cybersecurity wasn’t linear, and that’s part of what makes him a standout. After a personal breach sparked his interest, he transitioned from graphic design to the SOC, where he now leads analyst teams at Lumifi Cyber. His work strengthens customer defenses and keeps threats from slipping through unnoticed.
Jean-Yves Poichotte is Global Head of Cybersecurity at Sanofi, a biopharma company driven by research and committed to improving lives worldwide. He leads programs that protect sensitive operations and ensure global compliance, building on years of experience securing complex, highly regulated environments and advancing cyber resilience at scale.
As Senior Vice President of Cybersecurity at NTT, Stefaan is shaping how global organizations approach security. With more than three decades in the field, he brings a blend of technical depth and business focus that helps translate complexity into real-world outcomes.
Eduardo Ortiz leads global cybersecurity at TTI, a worldwide leader in power tools and outdoor equipment. With two decades of experience, he’s led security transformation efforts that prioritize clarity, continuity, and growth across a fast-moving enterprise.
Henrik Smit is Director of Cyber Defense & Response at KPMG, where he focuses on security monitoring, incident response, digital identity, and zero trust. His work empowers organizations to rethink their approach to defense and build security programs that are agile, practical, and future-ready.
Maria Fladung serves as the IT Security Officer at EDAG, a global engineering partner to the automotive industry with more than 80 locations. She takes a grounded approach to enterprise security, combining early hands-on experience in network security with a strong foundation in business informatics to lead cybersecurity efforts across the organization.
Richard Webster oversees Sanofi’s Security Operations Center, applying a creative mindset to real-world security challenges. His global experience and hands-on expertise allow him to shape practical defenses that support the business without adding unnecessary complexity.
Scott Scheppers is the Chief Experience Officer at LevelBlue, a cybersecurity company that provides managed security services, consulting, and threat intelligence. Before joining LevelBlue, he had a distinguished 30-year career in the US Air Force. In his last assignment, he served as the Chief Operating Officer of the National Security Agency's (NSA) Cybersecurity Operations Group, where he led a diverse workforce in executing national cyber defense missions, including discovering and characterizing cyber threats and developing countermeasures.
As Head of IT Operations and Infrastructure at Tallink — a leading ferry and cargo provider in Northern Europe — Kalev Noor combines hands-on operational expertise with strategic vision to ensure the systems behind Tallink’s business run smoothly and support its long-term goals.
As SVP, Chief Information Security Officer at ATI Physical Therapy, Michael Smith led a highly successful multi-year cybersecurity transformation including the use of network detection and response (NDR). He is a trusted voice and leader, and he continues to innovate and to bring senior technology leaders together to collaborate.
Keith Blackler, Head of Cyber Security at Related Companies, blends respected, timetested practices with a genuine curiosity for today’s evolving threats to safeguard the firm’s digital infrastructure. Having served his country as a U.S. Marine, he anchors every security measure in discipline and proven principles while steadily integrating the latest threathunting techniques. Keith truly enjoys and commits himself to learning as much as he can within the vast field, ensuring Related Companies remains resilient against emerging cyber risks. His deep technical expertise, dedication to continuous growth, and collaborative approach make him an essential guardian of the company’s most critical assets.