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Tony Asher
Virtual CISO helping Life Science IT leaders build mature cybersecurity programs while gaining the approval of executive leadership.
Professional Background
Tony Asher is a seasoned cybersecurity expert with extensive experience in enhancing the cybersecurity posture of organizations across various sectors. As the founder and cybersecurity advisor at Asher Security, Tony has dedicated his career to assisting companies in maturing their cybersecurity programs and earning the trust and respect of their executive teams and boards of directors. With a strong focus on empowering technology leaders to effectively manage and communicate cybersecurity risks, his insights have proven invaluable in today’s technology-driven landscape.
Before establishing Asher Security, Tony held significant positions at prominent companies. He served as the Business Information Security Officer (BISO) at Target, where he aligned security strategies with corporate business objectives. His experience as an Information Security Officer at Piper Jaffray saw him oversee the development and execution of initiatives to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with industry standards. In addition, Tony has worked as a Global Outsourcing Security Analyst at Unisys, contributing to the design and implementation of robust security frameworks.
Tony’s career also includes leadership roles such as the President at Alcatraz Security and positions at Northrop Grumman as a Windows Business Analyst, and Network Guidance Company as a Computer Consultant. His early career included pivotal roles at the U.S. Postal Service, where he served as a Network Consultant and Network Support Specialist, gaining a strong foundation in cybersecurity operations and network management.
Education and Achievements
Tony Asher’s passion for cybersecurity is underpinned by his formal education at the National Education Institute (NEI), where he studied to deepen his expertise in information security principles and practices. Over the past several decades, he has accumulated numerous certifications and qualifications that enhance his ability to lead organizations through the complexities of cybersecurity threat management.
Tony’s commitment to helping organizations grow their cybersecurity maturity is reflected in the remarkable results he has achieved. Under his guidance, one company advanced its cybersecurity maturity score from a lowly 2.1 to an impressive 3.5 in just 12 months. Another organization that faced board pressure successfully improved its Gartner Cybersecurity Score from a ‘3-’ to a ‘4’ within the same time frame. Additionally, Tony has driven significant improvements in compliance scores, having increased NIST CSF scores by over 30% within a mere 9 months, proving his ability to deliver results under pressure.
Achievements
- Founder & Cybersecurity Advisor, Asher Security: Established a consultancy focused on aiding technology leaders in improving cybersecurity strategies and practices.
- Former BISO, Target: Played a vital role in aligning cybersecurity initiatives with business objectives and enhancing organizational security practices.
- Former InfoSec Officer, Piper Jaffray: Directed comprehensive security programs safeguarding sensitive financial data and adhering to regulatory frameworks.
- Global Outsourcing Security Analyst, Unisys: Developed and implemented security measures for outsourced services, demonstrating a strong understanding of global security standards.
- President, Alcatraz Security: Led a team focused on innovative security solutions, emphasizing risk management and threat mitigation technologies.
- Multiple Roles at Northrop Grumman and U.S. Postal Service: Gained foundational experience in network management and cybersecurity operations.
Tony is also recognized for his approachable demeanor and his commitment to demystifying cybersecurity for executives and technical leaders alike. Through his unique Cybersecurity Maturity Index, he provides a practical framework that enables technology leaders to present security status confidently to their boards and stakeholders. This index not only serves as a tool for measurement but also as a roadmap for future improvement, resource allocation, and strategic planning. By utilizing this innovative resource, leaders can effectively communicate their cybersecurity posture and receive the necessary support to enhance their security initiatives.
In summary, Tony Asher is a highly skilled cybersecurity professional committed to transforming the way organizations perceive and address their cybersecurity programs. His wealth of knowledge, practical experience, and proven achievements have positioned him as a leader and trusted advisor in the cybersecurity field.
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