Daniel Marcotte
CTIO, CISO
Indigo Books & Music
Daniel has more than 27 years of experience in Information Technology, with 18 years leading IT Security across various industries. Specialized in Risk and Compliance, he worked for the United Nations in Switzerland before taking charge of the security practices for well-established Canadian and American companies in the retail and legal sector. A graduate from McGill University, his approach is to combine Information Technology and business needs while strategically handling security risks.
Learn more about the Toronto CISO community here.
Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.
After graduating with a degree in Computer Science, I started my career as a DBA while managing projects. As sensitive/confidential data are often found in databases, I was exposed to the different frameworks and regulations leading to my obtaining my certifications to then become a leader in the IT security space.
I have experience managing cyber security leads to exposure to all spheres of IT. With more than 15 years in the retail sector and given the growing importance of IT Security, over the years I became a perfect candidate for the positions of CTIO and CISO.
What is one of your guiding leadership principles?
I have a few that I believe in very strongly: take responsibility, lead by example, work together, and show accountability. Ultimately a leader’s guidance reflects in the actions of employees and vice versa. So, it is important to establish the relationship of trust and engagement.
With disruption being a key theme of recent years, where do you see the CISO role going in the next 1-2 years?
With the trend towards digital, the new workforce generation and the high employee turnover rate, C-Level roles require more technical knowledge to manage teams and business expectations successfully. It is just as important to establish a network of connections to exchange ideas and share knowledge.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out as a CISO?
When you have a C-level role, you are expected to be everywhere. My advice is simple: “Develop your internal and external network as you cannot be successful without allies.”
Tell us three fun facts about yourself.
- I have a passion for Bonsais.
- I once played a hockey game with some ex-NHL players, Mike Bossy and Stephane Quintal, while being coached by Jacques Demers.
- Whenever we travel, I can easily fall asleep as soon as the plane takes off. It drives my wife mad!
What is the value of joining an Evanta community?
The Evanta community is composed of a select group of professionals sharing the same passion with a common goal, “expand our network.” Joining this community is exclusive as not only you, but also the company you represent, need to meet certain criteria. This makes Evanta even more appealing as it is a networking opportunity to exchange ideas with people experiencing similar challenges.
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.
by CISOs, for CISOs
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