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Steve Gentry
Chief Security Officer at Clari
Professional Background
Steve Gentry is a seasoned professional with an impressive career trajectory in the field of cybersecurity and privacy. With nearly three decades of experience, Steve has cultivated a dynamic and multifaceted career that encapsulates leadership roles and thought leadership across various organizations. As the Chief Security Officer at Clari, he leads the charge in establishing robust security frameworks that align with business objectives and safeguard sensitive data.
His passion for data protection ignited in the 1990s, evolving from a curious observer of IT controls to a dedicated advocate for security education. Steve's journey has been driven by an intrinsic desire to understand human behavior within the realm of technology. This foundational belief—that security is not purely a technological issue but rather a human one—has guided his professional philosophy.
Before taking on his current role, Steve held several esteemed positions that enriched his expertise. He served as the Chief Security & Privacy Officer at Workfront, where he was pivotal in navigating complex data protection landscapes, fulfilling corporate compliance needs while fostering a culture of security within the organization. His tenure at Adobe in Information Security Leadership saw him innovate security measures that were both effective and sustainable. Additionally, Steve's role as Director of Cloud Security and Interim CISO at VMware further solidified his standing in the cybersecurity space, where he was integral to overseeing cloud security initiatives that protected vital assets and information.
Steve's commitment to education and mentorship is palpable. He has established a strong presence in professional communities, previously serving on the Leadership Board of the Utah CyberSecurity Exchange at the Cybersecurity Collaboration Forum. His ongoing dedication involves both teaching budding security professionals and leading public speaking engagements, where he shares insights and lessons learned throughout his career. This desire to educate others sets him apart, reinforcing his belief that security practitioners should be business-oriented first and foremost.
Education and Achievements
Steve Gentry earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Canterbury University, which laid the foundation for his extensive expertise in technology and security. While formal education was a significant stepping stone, his real-world experiences and lifetime learning have been crucial in shaping his approach to cybersecurity and data protection. The knowledge he gained through both his studies and practical engagements has equipped him with a toolkit necessary to navigate today’s complex security challenges within organizations.
Over the course of his career, Steve has gained invaluable experiences from various positions that have not only allowed him to hone his skills but have also provided a platform for him to influence and effectuate change. His role as vCISO/CSO/CPO at Slandail Consulting allowed him to leverage his wealth of knowledge to help multiple organizations implement sound security practices tailored to their unique business objectives. This consultancy role showcases Steve’s versatility and highlights his commitment to helping others enhance their security posture without the need to start from scratch.
Moreover, his early career as a Directory Support Engineer at Novell provided him with a firm understanding of IT systems, networks, and user behavior—an expertise that continues to inform his decisions as a security leader today.
Achievements
Steve's remarkable contributions to the field of cybersecurity are evident in his trajectory across multiple reputable organizations. From leadership roles to collaborative efforts within cybersecurity forums, he has consistently prioritized not only implementing security measures but also championing a cultural shift towards understanding the importance of data protection in business environments.
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Chief Security Officer at Clari: Spearheading innovative security and privacy initiatives that align with organizational goals.
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Leadership in Cybersecurity Forums: Engaging actively in initiatives that foster collaboration among cybersecurity professionals, particularly during his time with the Utah CyberSecurity Exchange.
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Contribution to Educational Outreach: Delivering public speaking engagements that educate others in the cybersecurity space, reflecting his belief in the importance of mentorship.
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Implementation of Security Frameworks: As Chief Security & Privacy Officer at Workfront, he played a key role in establishing frameworks that not only protect data but also align with corporate objectives.
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Consultancy Excellence: Through his consultancy work at Slandail Consulting, helping organizations implement effective security measures by leveraging his vast experience, ensuring businesses do not have to reinvent the wheel when it comes to cybersecurity best practices.
With a fertile career blooming with achievements, educational contributions, and a deeply ingrained passion for teaching, Steve Gentry is a prominent figure in the field of cybersecurity and privacy. His journey serves not only as an example of professional growth but also as a template for future generations of security professionals, demonstrating the importance of integrating business objectives with effective security practices.
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