After almost two decades in IT and Tech Support Operations for Silicon Valley startups and enterprises, I discovered my love for cybersecurity after taking over the customer-facing communities for a popular security vendor in 2014. Over the next three years, I helped hundreds of security teams across the globe solve hardware, networking, product and security issues.
After completing my Masters in Information and Knowledge Strategy, I practically stumbled into vCISO work. Since 2019, I’ve brought my deep history in knowledge strategy, collaboration and culture to securing small and mid-sized businesses. I have served on the Board of Directors for The Diana Initiative, a group committed to fostering diversity in cybersecurity, and as a contributor/mentor to the Women’s Society of Cyberjutsu.
As a digital nomad running a small consulting firm, I deeply feel the needs of smaller business owners trying to protect their company and customer data.
A results-driven Security & Compliance Executive, I bring over a decade of cross-industry leadership in shaping and executing enterprise risk, compliance, and information security strategies. Recognized for my ability to turn complex regulatory landscapes into competitive advantages, I specialize in aligning cybersecurity and compliance frameworks with business objectives to drive resilience, growth, and trust.
My career has been defined by a passion for solving challenges at scale—building scalable programs, guiding high-stakes transformations, and delivering best-in-class solutions that support global operations. From leading strategic risk initiatives to enhancing governance structures, I consistently deliver outcomes that strengthen security posture and ensure organizational readiness in a dynamic threat environment.
Trusted by stakeholders across industries, I serve as a key advisor at the intersection of technology, compliance, and business performance.
As an advising member of Pocket CISO, John brings his extensive leadership experience and strategic vision to ensuring Pocket CISO can best help organizations navigate the complex world of technology, security, and compliance.
John is an enthusiastic member of the global Cybersecurity community; volunteering, mentoring, and participating in events around the globe. He is a long time member and distinguished fellow with ISSA International, past-president of the Silicon Valley chapter of ISSA, founding member of ISLF.foundation, and SVC.io. He has made appearances at events such as BSidesSF, the LATAM regional World Startup Cup, Cornerstones of Trust, and other conferences and private events. Come see John this year at DEFCON’s Packet Hacking Village – home of the infamous Wall of Sheep.
Currently, John is the full time Head of Security, IT, and Compliance at ZEDEDA and advises Pocket CISO when needed."
