Brian Palmer
Director, IT Security & Infrastructure (CISO)
Ventas
I have worked in IT for over 20 years. I started as a developer, transitioned to operations, then infrastructure, and most recently to cyber. Having worked in multiple aspects of technology has given me an excellent background to understand today’s cyber security challenges.
A fun fact about me, I have climbed 6 of the 7 summits and attempted Everest a few years ago.
Learn more about the Chicago CISO community here.
Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.
I have been leading infrastructure teams for many years. At a previous job, I was in charge of infrastructure and when I started there was no full-time cybersecurity team. Recognizing this gap, I hired our first full time cyber security associate and built out our cyber security team. That experience led me to where I am today, leading infrastructure and cyber security teams.
What is one of your guiding leadership principles?
No matter how difficult things may look, you can always take one small step. If you keep taking one small step after another, you will eventually get to where you need to be.
What is the greatest challenge CISOs face today, and how are you addressing it?
Keeping up with the ever-increasing amount of threats, especially with the advancements of Artificial Intelligence. We are spending an increasing amount of time on improving our user education and finding more ways to better develop our corporate cyber awareness culture.
What is the key to success for someone just starting out as a CISO?
Be adaptable. Recognize that technology is constantly changing and you need to change with it. Make sure you understand the business you are in and your company's risk tolerance.
How do you measure success as a leader?
Growing my employees. Keeping our systems available.
What is the value of being a member of Gartner C-level Communities?
Networking and learning from regional CISOs in the Chicago area is invaluable.
Gartner C-level Communities Governing Body members share their insights and leadership perspectives to shape the agendas and topics that address the top priorities impacting business leaders today.
By CISOs, For CISOs®
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