In a pressing development in the cybersecurity landscape, Ray Umerley has been appointed as the Field Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Coveware, a firm recognized for its expertise in ransomware recovery and incident response. With over two decades of extensive experience across various security functions within enterprise environments, Umerley is poised to enhance the security programs of Coveware’s clients by utilizing his significant knowledge and insights gained from his lengthy career.
Before joining Coveware, Umerley held the position of Chief Information Risk Officer at a Fortune 500 company, where he spearheaded global initiatives in cybersecurity risk management, data privacy, and crisis management. His ability to navigate complex security challenges has not only established him as a leader in the field but also as an influential voice in cybersecurity discussions.
Umerley’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed in the industry. He has been recognized multiple times as one of the Top 100 CISOs by Security Current and CISOs Connect, as well as being named a Top Global CISO by Cyber Defense Magazine. Additionally, he is a sought-after speaker at major industry events, including the prestigious RSA Conference, where he shares his expertise on pressing issues related to cybersecurity and data protection.
Having earned a Master’s degree in Computer Information Systems from Boston University, Umerley also holds several key industry certifications, including the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) designation from (ISC)². His professional credentials are further bolstered by his status as a Fellow of Information Privacy (FIP) with the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), underscoring his commitment to advancing privacy and security practices.
As Coveware continues to address the mounting challenges associated with cybersecurity incidents, Umerley’s leadership is expected to bring about transformative strategies for defending against emerging threats. The cyber landscape has increasingly become fraught with risks, making the role of a CISO vital in safeguarding organizational data and maintaining operational integrity.
In light of recent attacks that have targeted organizations globally, understanding the underlying tactics employed by adversaries remains critical. The MITRE ATT&CK framework serves as a valuable resource for deciphering these attacks, providing insights into potential adversary tactics such as initial access, persistence, and privilege escalation, which could have been leveraged in recent incidents. Umerley’s expertise will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in utilizing these frameworks to enhance Coveware’s response strategies.
As businesses grapple with the implications of data breaches and heightened vulnerabilities, the demand for knowledgeable leadership in cybersecurity grows. Umerley’s background and proven track record position him as a key figure in navigating this critical juncture, where proactive measures and informed strategies are essential for organizational resilience. Cybersecurity remains an ever-evolving challenge, and with experts like Umerley at the helm, Coveware aims to fortify its clients’ defenses against potential cyber threats as they emerge.
