2025-08-05 –, Florentine B
Join us for “Root to CISO or Not”—because not everyone dreams of being a CISO (some of us like sleep). In this lively panel, two CISOs and a cybersecurity recruiter will share war stories, career detours, and the surprising paths that lead through (or around) the corner office. Whether you’re eyeing the top job or just trying to avoid burnout, you’ll leave with practical advice—and maybe a few laughs—on how to navigate your cybersecurity career.
“Root to CISO or Not”
Not everyone dreams of becoming a CISO—some of us are just trying to avoid pager fatigue… and federal indictments. Join us for a fun and insightful panel featuring two experienced CISOs and a cybersecurity recruiter as they explore the many career paths in cybersecurity, from hands-on technical roles to leadership positions.
This session will highlight how professionals can grow within the field, pivot between specialties, and decide whether the CISO track is the right fit—or if life might be better without the liability insurance. You’ll hear real-world career lessons, practical guidance, and a few laughs about the highs, lows, and unexpected twists of navigating a cybersecurity career.
Whether you’re aiming for the big chair or just trying to figure out your next move, this panel will offer clarity, encouragement, and the kind of candid advice you won’t get from a job description.
Kris Rides is the CEO and Founder of Tiro Security - a Cybersecurity professional services and staffing firm. He is one of the original founding Board Members of the Southern California Cloud Security Alliance Chapter, the previous President, and an honorary board member. He chairs the industry advisory board for the National Cybersecurity Training & Education Center (NCYTE) and is an advisory board member to The Cyber Helpline, Washington States Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence, as well as for the non-profit; GRC for Intelligent Ecosystems (GRCIE).
Kris is committed to using his expertise to make a difference in the cybersecurity Industry.
Experienced cybersecurity leader and CISO with a global career spanning consulting, advisory, and executive roles. I've helped startups scale and enterprises mature their security programs from zero to hero in compliance, incident response, and beyond.