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Patrick Ford
Chief Information Security Officer, Americas Region
Professional Background
Patrick Ford is a seasoned professional in the Information Security industry with extensive experience spanning several key areas, including Physical Security, business continuity, crisis management, and Law Enforcement. Currently serving as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for the Americas Region at Schneider Electric, Patrick plays a crucial role in safeguarding the organization's digital and physical assets while ensuring compliance with various security protocols and regulations. His profound insights into the complexities of information security have allowed him to develop and implement robust security strategies that resonate with industry best practices.
Before stepping into his current role, Patrick held various significant positions that contributed to his extensive knowledge and expertise in security management. Notably, he served as the Vice President of Corporate Security and Chief Security Officer (CSO) at Aetna, Inc., where he was responsible for overseeing the company’s security strategy and execution across multiple divisions. Additionally, Patrick was the Senior Director of Global Security for the Americas Region at Pfizer, Inc., where he led initiatives that enhanced the safety and security protocols in one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies. His foundation in security began as a Supervisory Special Agent at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), where he honed his investigative skills and gained valuable insights into security threats and intelligence gathering.
Education and Achievements
Patrick Ford earned his Bachelor's Degree in Accounting from the University of Baltimore. This educational background provided him with a solid understanding of fiscal responsibility, which is essential in managing budgets and resources effectively in his roles throughout his career. Patrick's pursuit of continuous learning and development led him to acquire a multitude of industry-recognized certifications that highlight his commitment to professional excellence. Currently, he holds several prestigious certifications, including:
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
- ISACA Advanced Certified Fraud Examiner (ACFE)
- SANS GIAC Security Practitioner
- ISO 22301 Lead Auditor Certification
In addition to his certifications, Patrick maintains a current TS/SCI Fraud Investigations clearance, alongside an active FBI background check. This level of clearance is a testament to his trustworthiness and capability to handle sensitive information, further solidifying his position as a leader in the realm of Information Security.
Notable Achievements
Throughout his career, Patrick Ford has witnessed and adeptly maneuvered through the evolving landscape of information security. His strategic contributions have been pivotal in mitigating risks and ensuring business continuity in multiple high-stake environments. Some of his notable achievements include:
- Developed and implemented comprehensive security protocols at Schneider Electric that have significantly reduced security incidents within the organization.
- Spearheaded numerous business continuity initiatives at Aetna, enhancing resilience against unforeseen events and ensuring operational stability.
- Led cross-functional security investigations at Pfizer that improved the organization’s overall threat response capabilities.
- Actively collaborated with Law Enforcement agencies during his tenure with the FBI, strengthening public-private partnerships in combating crime and enhancing community safety.
Patrick’s career herculean efforts have not only contributed to the success of the organizations he has represented but also demonstrated a commitment to the greater good of the communities he has served. His expertise and leadership in information security make him a respected figure in the industry, as he continues to shape the future of security management across various sectors.
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