Cybersecurity Day

Panelist – Jeff Kirby

Jeff Kirby is a dynamic cybersecurity leader with a proven track record of building robust security teams and programs from the ground up. With expertise in developing comprehensive systems, standards, and processes, Jeff successfully reduced the attack surface of his organization by implementing industry-standard tools and practices, ensuring full-spectrum Security Operations coverage.

In addition to establishing a world-class Cybersecurity Awareness program and training employees to build a resilient human firewall, Jeff created a company-wide IT and Cyber Risk program that encompasses both cybersecurity and IT. He also spearheaded the development of a PCI compliance program, earning PCI certification as a certified PCI-ISA.

Jeff has held multiple board positions, including on the boards of Elevate Exchange, FutureCon LLC, Cyber Risk Alliance Dallas, Evanta CISO, and The CISO Society. He also actively contributes to Club Captive Eight and as a Distinguished Toastmaster since 2009, Jeff supports new speakers and ESL upcoming professionals through Toastmasters International.

In recognition of his work, Jeff was a finalist for the 2024 Dallas CISO ORBIE award and earned the prestigious CISO’s Connect Top 100 CISO (C100) award. Jeff credits his success to his team, cultivating a “family of choice” culture that emphasizes growth, trust, and shared purpose through daily leadership and intentional touchpoints.

Panelist – Peeyush Patel

Peeyush has built a reputation as a visionary, transformational leader, and digital enabler. He is a respected, collaborative, and accomplished technology executive with over 20 years of Cyber and technology expertise. His career experiences and impactful contributions have quickly elevated him to leadership responsibilities in the organizations in which he serves or has served. He is a battle tested transformation leader able to create shareholder value and build a security aware culture. In his current role as the Global CISO of XPO Peeyush has transformed the Global Security Office by maturing the overall program structure. Peeyush has advanced and expanded the security program with a primary focus on the integration of Information Technology and Information Security through unified risk management solutions significantly reducing the attack surface and facilitating the transition to cloud-based solutions. Previously, as the CIO and CISO at Careem (an Uber Subsidiary) and in leadership roles at McKesson, Experian and Blackrock, Peeyush has demonstrated his expertise in enhancing cybersecurity measures while enabling business growth. He is a respected speaker at industry conferences and serves as an advisor for leading technology firms. Peeyush holds an MBA from the University of Michigan and resides in Dallas, Texas.

Panelist – Bryce Carter

Bryce Carter is a nationally-recognized leader known for his transformative impact on organizational culture and his ability drive cybersecurity as a key business enabler. Bryce has not only developed groundbreaking security strategies that safeguard data, but has also focused on the broader welfare of communities. His visionary approach has earned him positions on multiple advisory boards, where he helps shapes next-generation policies and technologies. In addition, Bryce contributes to the growth of future leaders by mentoring upcoming executives and technology professionals. His achievements have helped lay the groundwork for a more innovative, resilient, and inclusive future.

Panelist – Nate Howe

Nate Howe began his professional career in IT Audit, serving Arthur Andersen, Nasdaq, and Ameriquest Mortgage. Nate then served Western Federal Credit Union (WFCU) as Vice President of Risk Management, leading information security, internal audit, compliance, insurance, physical security, and facilities teams.

Currently, Nate serves The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) in the dual role of Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and Adjunct Professor. Through his university work, Nate encourages a culture of accountability and resilience to protect information assets.

Nate is a graduate of Boston University and the University of California at Irvine, who also completed 12 industry certifications.