2023 SC Awards Finalists: Security Executive of the Year  

Bryan Palma, CEO of Trellix, has been named a finalist for Security Executive of the Year. Palma leads a team of nearly 5,000 employees delivering cybersecurity solutions to 40,000 global customers. Under his leadership, Trellix merged the McAfee and FireEye teams, prioritizing product development and threat research. Palma is a champion for diversity and has initiated the “Soulful Work” mission to close the talent gap in cybersecurity. With a background as a special agent in the U.S. Secret Service, Palma has become an influential figure in the cybersecurity community. He has implemented the Objective Key Results methodology across the organization, fostering a culture of innovation and goal-oriented thinking. Palma has also worked to strengthen end-user and customer awareness of IT security threats, introducing customers to the concept of “living security.”

George Gerchow, Chief Security Officer and Senior Vice President of IT at Sumo Logic, has been named a finalist for Security Executive of the Year. Gerchow’s experience includes security operations, cloud computing, threat management, and risk remediation. He leads a strong IT development team, gains support from leadership, and increases his influence in the cybersecurity community. Passionate about diversity and inclusion, Gerchow focuses on professional development to reduce burnout and improve retention. He educates the broader security community by speaking at conferences and participating in podcasts, addressing topics like MFA fatigue, breaches, and the cybersecurity talent gap. Gerchow promotes a respectful and inclusive work culture, focusing on the human element. He strengthens end-user and customer awareness of IT security threats and safeguards by responding to vulnerabilities like Log4Shell and keeping employees up-to-date on cyber threats.

Kevin Lynch, CEO of Optiv, has been named a finalist for Security Executive of the Year. Lynch has focused on fostering cyber resilience by implementing a Zero Trust mindset and architecture within the company. Under his leadership, Optiv has become a premier destination for cybersecurity talent, with significant increases in diversity and a strong emphasis on culture. Lynch has used his position to influence the cybersecurity industry, serving on advisory boards and working to establish a National Cyber Corps to fill critical cybersecurity jobs. He has empowered employees by recognizing their leadership potential and promoting professional development, while also emphasizing the importance of work-life balance.

CrowdStrike President Michael Sentonas has been named a finalist for Security Executive of the Year. Sentonas, who has been with CrowdStrike since 2016, was promoted to CTO in 2020 and has played a crucial role in the company’s growth as a market leader in endpoint security. His focus on customer needs and product excellence has earned him respect among the leadership team, as well as customers, employees, partners, analysts, and investors. With over 20 years of experience in cybersecurity, Sentonas is a trusted source for understanding the current cyber landscape and future trends. He prioritizes customer needs and empowers his colleagues to exceed goals by setting an example of commitment and ensuring that all technical decisions are made with the customer in mind.

Rita Gurevich, CEO and Founder of SPHERE Technology Solutions, has been named a finalist for Security Executive of the Year. Gurevich established SPHERE in 2010, focusing on access and governance through a client-centered approach. The company was recognized as a top distinguished vendor in TAG Cyber’s Q2 Quarterly Report and recently completed a Series B funding round, raising $31M with a company valuation exceeding $100M. Gurevich promotes diversity and inclusion within the company and launched SP(HER)E, an interactive channel highlighting female leadership in cybersecurity. She also advocates for neurodiversity and mentorship for the next generation of diverse individuals in the industry. Under Gurevich’s leadership, SPHERE has released multiple versions of its flagship product, SPHEREboard, and regularly organizes educational forums for CISOs and executive decision-makers.