Arsen Shirokov
National Director, Information Technology / CIO
McMillan
Arsen Shirokov leads the firm’s Information Security & Governance program. In this role, he oversees the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of client information and ensures efficient digital and paper records management. As a senior risk management professional, Arsen focuses on information security, cybersecurity, technology risk, and fraud management.
Before joining McMillan, Arsen worked as the Director, Information Security Strategy at the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. Over his career, he has collaborated extensively on operational and strategic matters with industry associations and regulatory bodies as well as law enforcement and government entities.
An active member of the Canadian and international security communities, Arsen has presented at industry events hosted by the Canadian Bankers Association (CBA), the International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators (IAFCA), and the Information Security Forum (ISF). He is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).
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Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.
My security career started in cryptography, and over the last 20 years, evolved to cover most aspects of Information and Cyber Security and Risk Management.
What is one of your guiding leadership principles?
I see collaboration and communication as some of the most important leadership principles.
With disruption being a key theme of the past year, where do you see your role as a CISO leader going in the next 1-2 years?
As the world is undergoing significant and rapid changes, I think balancing risk and reward, and managing priorities is becoming an especially critical part of the CISO role.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the role?
I’d suggest building relationships early and maintaining alignment on key risks and priorities with key stakeholders.
Tell us 3 fun facts about yourself.
- I love learning and understanding the business I’m protecting as a CISO.
- Flying hot air balloons has been one of my passions for over 20 years.
- Lifelong learning is one of the most important skills I’m teaching my kids.
What is the value of participating in a professional community through Evanta?
As part of the Evanta community, members get to discuss risk trends, strategies, and solutions. These peer discussions help navigate the leadership and technical challenges faced by today’s CISOs.
Evanta Governing Body members share their insights and leadership perspectives to shape the agendas and topics that address the top priorities impacting business leaders today.
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