Michael Dent, the chief information security officer for Fairfax County, Virginia, has been making waves in cybersecurity for over three decades. Known for his exceptional leadership and innovative approach, he has developed a robust IT security programme that protects critical government services. A military veteran and CISO for over 23 years, Dent shares his insights on public service, the challenges of cybersecurity today, and his strategies for success.
Key Points
- Michael Dent has over 30 years of public-sector information security experience, with over 23 years as CISO of Fairfax County.
- He emphasises the importance of building relationships and trust within teams to succeed in cybersecurity.
- Over the years, he has led the Annual Security Awareness Day, fostering collaboration across public and private sectors.
- Dent’s strategic focus during the COVID-19 pandemic was on remote workforce security and resilient service continuity.
- He advocates for local governments to have direct access to cybersecurity resources and tailored vendor solutions.
Why should I read this?
If you’re keen on understanding how strong leadership shapes the landscape of cybersecurity in local government, this article is a must-read. Michael Dent’s insights are crucial for anyone involved in public service or cybersecurity, offering valuable lessons that could improve practices in your own organisation. Plus, you’ll save yourself hours of digging for cues on effective cyber strategies!
