Rick Vadgama, CISSP
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) | Board Member | Security and Privacy Leader | Advisor
View LinkedIn ProfileExecutive Overview
I am a results-driven Global CISO and Cybersecurity & IT Operations Leader with a passion for leveraging technology to empower organizations in today's digital landscape. With over 20 years of global leadership experience, I have consistently driven transformative initiatives, built high-performing teams, and achieved significant cost savings through optimized investments. My expertise spans various areas, including data privacy, cloud computing, incident response, M&A, AI, and DevOps. Throughout my career, I've successfully navigated complex business challenges, providing strategic direction and ensuring compliance with industry standards such as PCI DSS, EU GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, SOX and SEC Cybersecurity disclosure. I excel at communicating technical concepts to C-level executives, bridging the gap between technology and business objectives. As a Certified CISSP, I bring a deep understanding of industry standards and best practices. I have served on advisory boards for prominent organizations like Crowdstrike, Tenable, Rad Security, and .406 Ventures, contributing to shaping the future of cybersecurity. Beyond my professional pursuits, I am deeply committed to championing diversity, social equity, and inclusion. I foster an inclusive and empowered workforce, believing in the transformative impact of diverse perspectives.
Career Timeline
- GEICOCurrentAug 2024–Present· 2 yrs 1 mo
- Chief Information Security OfficerCurrentAug 2024–Present
- .406 VenturesCurrentOct 2023–Present· 2 yrs 11 mos
- Cyber Executive CouncilCurrentOct 2023–Present
- Mar 2023–Present· 3 yrs 6 mos
- Executive Advisory CouncilCurrentMar 2023–Present
- TenableCurrentSep 2022–Present· 4 yrs
- Executive Advisory BoardCurrentSep 2022–Present
- RAD SecurityCurrentAug 2022–Present· 4 yrs 1 mo
- Advisory BoardCurrentAug 2022–Present
- 2022–Aug 2024· 2 yrs 7 mos
- Customer Advisory Board2022–Aug 2024
- Dec 2020–2024· 3 yrs 1 mo
- Curricular Advisor/Cyber Security Subject Matter ExpertDec 2020–2024
- Dec 2017–Dec 2024· 7 yrs
- Customer Advisory BoardDec 2017–Dec 2024
- 2017–Aug 2024· 7 yrs 7 mos
- Vice President, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)2017–Aug 2024
- Dec 2016–Sep 2024· 7 yrs 9 mos
- Customer Advisory BoardDec 2016–Sep 2024
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration - BBA
Finance and Operations Management
Isenberg School of Management, UMass Amherst