CISOs Connect has announced the winners of its second edition of the CISOs Top 100 Accelerated CISOs Awards (A100), a recognition aimed at highlighting emerging cybersecurity leaders who are shaping the future of digital protection. With less than five years in the role, the awardees represent a generation of security professionals that combines technical talent, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to collaboration.
A New Wave of Leadership for Uncertain Times
The world of cybersecurity is changing at a breakneck pace. In just two years, the increase in attack surfaces—driven by digital transformation, remote work, and the rise of connected devices—has forced security leaders to reinvent themselves. Against this backdrop, the A100 of 2025 honors those who have adapted, innovated, and made a difference, even amid highly volatile scenarios.
“These professionals have not only risen to the occasion, but they also lead with a service mindset, sharing knowledge and fostering cooperation in an industry where threats are global,” highlighted Erika Voss, CISO of Blue Yonder and a jury member.
Selection Criteria: Beyond the Resume
The selection process was completely transparent, based solely on merit and free of any commercial implications. To be considered, candidates needed to meet three key conditions:
- Have less than five years as a CISO or in an equivalent role.
- Actively participate in professional organizations.
- Show commitment to the community through mentoring, volunteering, or awareness initiatives.
Among the evaluators were industry veterans like Michael Palmer (Hearst), Bob Turner (Penn State), Erika Voss (Blue Yonder), and Dan Meacham (Legendary Entertainment), who assessed each profile for vision, innovation, and cross-functional leadership capabilities.
Recognition That Drives Careers and Community
According to David Cass, president of CISOs Connect, the goal of this award is not only to honor individual trajectories but also to strengthen the global cybersecurity ecosystem:
“In such an interconnected sector, the impact of a good CISO extends beyond their company. It reaches the entire community through best practice sharing, collaboration against threats, and building collective capabilities.”
For many of the awardees, this honor marks a turning point. It not only validates their journey at an early stage but also positions them as role models in an industry eager for young talent with fresh ideas and renewed energy.
Institutional Support and Global Perspective
The A100 award is backed by CyberAlliance, an organization that works on raising visibility for leadership in cybersecurity and developing training programs.
“In a world where security equals success, these CISOs represent the forefront. Their work protects everything from banking systems to critical infrastructure. Recognizing their contributions is essential,” stated Kendrall Felder, CEO of CyberAlliance.
CISOs Connect, the organization driving this initiative, is defined as an exclusive professional community composed of cybersecurity leaders and technical experts. Founded in North America, it is expanding its presence to Europe, the Middle East, and Australia, creating a global space for experience exchange and collaborative leadership.
A Look to the Future
The A100 award arrives at a pivotal moment. Cybersecurity has become a priority issue at both corporate and government levels. In the face of increasingly sophisticated attacks, companies need leaders with technical capabilities, business acumen, and above all, a profound sense of social responsibility.
With these awards, CISOs Connect not only recognizes the best emerging talents in the field but also sends a clear message: the future of cybersecurity is in the hands of those who, in addition to mastering technology, are willing to lead with empathy, intelligence, and purpose.