The finalists for WashingtonExec’s Chief Officer Awards were announced March 28, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person May 10.
Next is Roger Ouellette, chief information security officer at V2X, and finalist in the Private and Public Chief Information Security Officer category. Here, he shares key achievements, focus areas going forward, career advice and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2023?
The main achievement in 2023 was the establishment of the CISO function with the organization which was driven out of our M&A activity in 2022 forming the V2X company. Additionally, I achieved the integration of cybersecurity and risk management through the office of General Council with the publishing of cybersecurity within the ESG report for the company. In addition, I crafted the incident response plan to include the new SEC cybersecurity reporting rule, establishing a methodology for determining materiality impacts for any future incidents.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
My focus areas for this year and moving out are to formalize the information security architecture for the organization along with awareness and training across the organization based on the changes experienced from the various M&A actions. Finally, solidify the risk management framework based on threats to the organization.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
My best career advice is to thoroughly learn your job, understanding it from top to bottom and across all related areas. Additionally, it’s crucial to grasp how your function interacts with and is affected by adjacent functions. This knowledge enables you to collaborate effectively with your peers rather than resorting to pointing fingers or assuming that work isn’t being done. This approach fosters a more cooperative and productive work environment.
Fun Fact: What is something about you that most people do not know?
I have a passion for research, and in college I conducted and reported out on toxicology impacts on lungs for ingestion of various chemicals and how the lung is able to clear particles. (Yes, I have degrees in biology and chemistry).