Francisco P.

About Francisco P.

As a dynamic and people-centric technology leader, I bring 25+ years of working knowledge…

Experience

1. Chief Information Security Officer

   San Diego County Water Authority

   Jul 2023 — Present · US

   First 60 days - Cybersecurity stack assessed, in conjunction with threat mitigation and managing risk tolerance. Began calibrating program against framework(s) while surveying business needs and enterprise workflow. Analyzed security challenges and trends unique to the Water sector alongside relevant proven practices. Project initiatives were prioritized based on those findings, including but in no way limited to: prompt implementation of Next Gen Email Security, Identity Protection and Response, revamping organization-wide Security Awareness Training and remediating redundancy toolsets causing digital friction among users. Positive outcomes include: progress toward compliancy, enhancing the security culture and vast improvements to employee’s digital experience.Forward-thinking in OT / SCADA digital transformation. Water utilities evolving threat landscape implores OT and IT convergence. I discuss this strategy, its challenges and leveraging available resources in a May 2024 CCOE audio podcast, “Cybersecurity in Water Infrastructure” (available on Spotify, see link below). Innovative, proactive technologies are part of my blueprint for cyber resiliency at the Water Authority.Purposeful development of talent - investing time in people. My leadership style empowers employees to progressively handle greater responsibilities. I encourage critical thinking, fostering growth through hands-on experience. Team members hone their skills in a supportive environment. After just 9 months of management at SDCWA, security engineers have received CISSP certification and continue to mature professionally.Seasoned negotiator with strong vendor relations. Exceptional track record securing contracts with both well-established and emerging vendors, complemented by an eye for trendsetting technologies. My extensive knowledge, attention to detail and respectful dialogue with provider representatives enable me to link together cohesive solutions like the pieces of a puzzle.

Education

• Coleman University

  Computer Science - Computer Applications and Networks