Tobias Beer
Vice President CISO & Group CIO (interim)
B. Braun Group
Since May 2023, I've had the privilege of serving as the Global Chief Information Security Officer at B. Braun SE. Upon starting, I was tasked with transforming the Information Security Office into a more proactive entity, focused on actively protecting B.Braun rather than merely drafting policies. With the collaboration of our strong leadership team across the technology departments, I drive change alongside the Head of IT, the Head of OT, and the CDO.
Our efforts are concentrated on four key areas: adhering to global regulations and customer requirements, emphasizing the importance of the Identity in information security, designing secure solutions from the outset, and monitoring and protecting our assets end-to-end. On a lighter note, I have a penchant for automating everything I can, both at work and at home!
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Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.
My professional journey was significantly influenced by my dad, who used to take me to big data centers when I was just a kid. This early exposure sparked my interest in security architecture, which eventually led me to build a team as the Head of IT-Security and become a CISO for the first time five years ago.
My career has spanned across diverse verticals, including aviation, finance, automotive, MedTech and Life Sciences. Additionally, I spent three years as the regional CIO for NAFTA at my previous employer, which provided me with valuable insights into the challenges faced "on the other side."
What is one of your guiding leadership principles?
When it comes to guiding leadership principles, I firmly believe in the mantra: "Think big, start small, move fast!”
What is the greatest challenge you are facing today, and how are you addressing it?
In my current role, one of the greatest challenges I face is finding a balance between addressing legacy technology and mindsets present in many companies and driving the digitalization necessary to remain competitive. Transparency about the status quo and a solid strategy to adapt new technology in a safe way from the beginning is key.
What is the key to success for someone just starting out as a CISO?
For those just starting out in a C-level role, I would emphasize the importance of partnering with relevant peers within your organization and establishing risk-based communication. Your goal is to become the translator who bridges the gap between the threats identified by your team and the board's perspective on risks and opportunities.
How do you measure success as a leader?
As a leader, I measure success by my ability to help everyone individually become the best version of themselves.
What is the value of being a member of Gartner C-level Communities?
I always took great value out of communities of likeminded people. The challenges we face often overlap, and it's crucial to exchange ideas and expertise.
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.
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