This year, for Black History Month, I wanted to highlight an active leader within IT security. Representation matters, and having strong Black leaders in tech not only paves the way for the next generation but also ensures diverse perspectives in tackling security challenges. As I’ve made my transition from risk and insurance to the world of IT and security, some of the most valuable learnings I’ve come away with have come from engaging with leaders like Cicero Chimbanda. His journey is a testament to the power of mentorship and the importance of community support in professional growth.

My first mentor during my years with the JA Fellows shared a quote that stuck with me to this day:

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

Cicero is the SVP of Technology and CyberRisk at Loop Capital Markets. He recently was the keynote speaker at FutureCon Chicago. You can check out his session here.

Here are a few of the questions I posed to Cicero:

Q1: When you find yourself stuck on a project, what are the first three steps you take to address it and move towards a resolution?

1. Begin with the end in mind: What is the initial objective and stated outcome by the primary stakeholder? Wherever there is a deviation, get back on track!
2. 360 DEGREES: Communication Feedback & Insight: reach UP (Sponsors); reach SIDEWAYS (Team, Peers); reach DOWN (customer, client)
3. DON’T Reinvent the wheel: Look for best practice intelligence (Knowledge Share, Professionals & Community SME Subject Matter Expertise)

Q2: When working with a lean team or teams where everyone wears multiple hats, how do you assess what can be done by your team vs. when the team is being stretched thin?

Roles & Responsibilities within the SDLC Framework (Planning, Design, Validation & Deployment). Find out where your team is best and outsource the rest.

Q3: What is the most invaluable advice a peer or mentor has given you?

Work/Life Balance & God is my CEO.

Q4: What is the most invaluable resource you’ve utilized in your capacity as an IT leader?

STS Model: Strategic = Security, Trust & Stability (https://www.infosecinstitute.com/skills/learning-paths/cybersecurity-leadership-and-management/)

The Power of Representation in Cybersecurity

Communities like 3 Tree Tech benefit greatly from leaders who can equip us with the knowledge before we need to apply it.

While experience is an amazing teacher, knowing where—or whom—to seek guidance from preemptively is just as invaluable. Leaders like Cicero not only offer technical expertise but also serve as role models, showing that success in cybersecurity is achievable for professionals at all levels.

A huge thank you to Cicero for his thoughtful insights and for the impactful work he does in representing the Black community. Your commitment to enabling, developing, and mentoring the cybersecurity professionals and leaders of the future does not go unnoticed. As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s continue to recognize and uplift the voices that drive meaningful change in our industry and beyond.