Michael Lashlee, CISSP

Mission First, People Always. That’s the mindset we bring to security at Mastercard, where as Chief Security Officer, I lead global efforts to protect our people, data, and systems—empowering the business to move forward with confidence in an increasingly complex world. Security today is more than defense; it’s a strategic advantage. From cyber threats and geopolitical risks to the fast-moving impact of AI, the landscape is evolving rapidly. I’m energized by how innovation and intelligence can help us stay ahead, but I never lose sight of the human side of the mission. The best solutions start with strong teams and trusted partnerships. Before joining Mastercard, I spent 25 years with the U.S. Secret Service, serving on presidential protective details and leading global investigations. That experience instilled in me a deep belief in mission focus, adaptability and service—lessons I carry with me every day. I’m passionate about mentoring others, building resilient ecosystems, and helping security evolve as a leadership discipline. At the end of the day, it’s about people—and that’s what keeps me motivated.