In an era where cybersecurity stands at the forefront of digital transformation, New York City’s cybersecurity leaders are making their mark on the global stage. As a nexus of finance, technology, and innovation, NYC has become home to some of the most influential Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) in the industry. LinkedIn has emerged as the premier platform where these security veterans share their expertise, influence industry trends, and build meaningful connections across Wall Street, Silicon Alley, and beyond.
Join us as we spotlight New York’s Top 10 Most-Followed CISOs who are not just safeguarding their organizations but are actively shaping the cybersecurity landscape through their thought leadership and invaluable insights on LinkedIn.
1. Phil Venables – CISO, Google Cloud
He is a seasoned specialist in information and cybersecurity, cloud services, enterprise risk, technology risk, and business resilience, with extensive experience spanning multiple industries and geographies. From hands-on engineering to strategic board-level management, he brings a unique blend of technical expertise and leadership skills, enabling organizations to navigate complex challenges while strengthening their resilience and safeguarding their digital assets.
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philvenables/
2. Ariel Litvin – CISO, First Quality Enterprises
He is a security executive with over 25 years of experience in addressing information risk and cybersecurity challenges impacting businesses worldwide. As the CISO of First Quality, a global multi-billion-dollar enterprise with over 5,000 employees, he leads efforts to tackle complex business and compliance issues, ensuring the resilience and security of its diverse operations across absorbent hygiene, tissue, and industrial materials. He also serves as a certification board member for the Cloud Security Alliance’s Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge, reflecting his commitment to advancing cloud security standards and practices.
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariel/
3. David Cass – Managing Director, CISO, GSR
He is a cybersecurity and digital assets leader, currently serving as President of CISOs Connect, where he fosters collaboration and innovation among Chief Information Security Officers. As Global CISO at GSR, a leading crypto market maker, he drives strategies to enhance security and privacy in the digital asset space. With prior roles as a lead regulator at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, CISO & Global Partner for IBM’s Cloud Security Service Unit, and SVP & CISO at Elsevier, he has deep expertise in risk management, regulatory compliance, and blockchain initiatives. He holds advanced degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and MIT, is a faculty member at Harvard and Rutgers Law School, and serves on multiple advisory boards.
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcass001/
4. Matthew Webster – CISO, Cyvergence
With over 25 years of experience in IT and security, he is passionate about advancing information security by helping organizations transform their practices. His expertise spans all major disciplines of information security, enabling him to develop comprehensive programs that provide actionable insights for better security. A former CISO, he has a deep understanding of aligning frameworks like FISMA, HIPAA, PCI, and HITRUST with business and technology needs. He is highly skilled in risk assessments, compliance, and cost-effective mitigation strategies and is known for his strong communication skills, effectively engaging with executives, boards, and partners. As a frequent speaker at industry events and an active member of organizations like ISC2 and ISACA, he continues to contribute to the cybersecurity community.
Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-webster-2087a3/
5. David Schwed – CISO, Brokerage & Money, Robinhood
Currently serving as the CISO for Brokerage at Robinhood, he has a rich background in cybersecurity, digital assets, and blockchain security, with previous roles as COO at Halborn, Global Head of Digital Assets Technology at BNY Mellon, and CISO at Galaxy Digital. His experience spans across technology, law, and security, exemplified by his tenure as Co-Founder, General Counsel, and CIO of MASS Communications, which was later acquired by Windstream Enterprise. He also shaped the next generation of cybersecurity professionals as the Founding Director of the Cybersecurity Master’s Program at Katz School of Science and Health. Holding a magna cum laude J.D. from Hofstra University, he is an active investor and advisor in blockchain and fintech startups and serves as an expert witness specializing in computer forensics and cybersecurity.
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidschwed/
6. John Cadavid – CISO – Global Functions & Americas, UBS
A dynamic senior executive with extensive leadership experience, he excels in Information Security, Cybersecurity, Cyber Defense, Threat Intelligence, Cyber Fraud, Operational Risk Management, Physical Security, Resilience, Crisis Management, and Technology Management. His multifaceted expertise has allowed him to lead and innovate across these critical areas, ensuring the security and operational integrity of organizations while managing risk and responding effectively to crises. With a proven track record in navigating complex security landscapes, he has played a pivotal role in shaping and strengthening the security frameworks of various enterprises.
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcadavid/
7. Henry Jiang – CISO, Therapy Brands
With over 20 years of experience in IT and cybersecurity, he specializes in risk management and technology leadership. He defines and develops KPIs and KRIs to communicate the effectiveness of cybersecurity programs, reporting to executive committees and regulatory bodies. He excels at identifying risks, leading remediation efforts, and empowering teams in fast-paced environments. As a strategic decision-maker, I bring expertise in cybersecurity frameworks, risk assessment, and secure software development. An active speaker, author, and mentor, he is deeply involved in the cybersecurity community and skilled in areas like SIEM, IAM, endpoint security, DDoS remediation, and cloud security.
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henry-jiang-us/
8. Yonesy Núñez – CISO, The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC)
He is a results-driven professional with extensive experience in IT risk, cybersecurity, and information security. He excels in optimizing system stability, functionality, and interoperability while ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. Known for his problem-solving philosophy of “fixing the problem, not placing blame,” he has a proven track record of streamlining operations to boost efficiency and achieve organizational goals. With a doctorate in computing, information assurance, and security, he is skilled in identifying and mitigating security risks. A respected leader and mentor, he is dedicated to delivering impactful results and building high-performing teams.
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yonesy-nunez/
9. Todd Mesick – CISO, The Lubrizol Corporation
He is a highly experienced security executive with over 20 years in information security, specializing in cybersecurity, enterprise risk management, and compliance. Known for building and leading security organizations to achieve and exceed objectives, he has a strong background in developing and implementing solutions that drive business goals. With expertise in managing major security programs from concept to successful execution, he ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with strategic targets. Proficient in compliance standards such as HIPAA, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, and CMMC, he also possesses a strong infrastructure background supported by hands-on IT experience.
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-mesick-86a3331b/
10. Ankur Ahuja – CISO, Billtrust
A passionate cybersecurity leader with a global perspective, he draws on over a decade of international experience across North America, Asia, and Africa, coupled with a tenure at a Big 4 firm, to navigate the dynamic cybersecurity landscape. Renowned as an award-winning CISO, he excels at crafting innovative strategies, identifying overlooked opportunities, and fostering strong partnerships. With a deep understanding of cultural nuances influencing cybersecurity practices, he thrives on calculated risk-taking and visionary thinking. As a speaker, startup investor, and security evangelist, he provides a comprehensive market view, empowering organizations to drive innovation and secure emerging technologies.
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ankurahuja/
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is based on research conducted by CXO Junction using keywords such as “Most followed CISOs in New York” The primary source of this research is LinkedIn. The information provided is intended for informational purposes only and reflects the data available at the time of the research. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy. Source: LinkedIn
