Vermont Business Magazine Today Denise Reilly-Hughes, Vermont’s Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Secretary of the Agency of Digital Services, announced the appointment of John Toney as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for the State of Vermont.
“Effective security is more than an IT responsibility, it’s a team effort,” said Secretary Reilly-Hughes. “We are fortunate to have John help in advancing Vermont’s security priorities of protecting state services and Vermonters.”
As a seasoned Global Chief Information Security Officer, John Toney brings more than two decades of expertise. He served as the first CISO of an enterprise spanning eight countries, specializing in incident response, threat intelligence, and security operations. He has been instrumental in architecting and building global security teams across five continents.
Toney also develops strategies to integrate emerging technologies including artificial intelligence into the business framework, and with an eye toward future trends and their implications.
He honorably served as a Special Agent with the U.S. Secret Service, specializing in network intrusion crimes and critical systems protection. He also served on multiple protection details at The White House, US Naval Observatory, and DHS Headquarters. He has demonstrated expertise in protecting information and operations technology environments through specialized onsite training at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) through the Department of Homeland Security.
“It’s no secret that everyone is facing increasing cyber security threats, including state government,” said Governor Scott. “It’s critical we are vigilant and prepared, and John brings a wealth of experience to help lead our efforts.”
In the contemporary landscape of cyber threats, characterized by their sophistication and ever-evolving nature, the CISO serves as the vanguard against potential breaches and attacks in Vermont. The confidentiality of sensitive information, integrity of crucial data, and seamless availability of digital resources are paramount concerns that directly impact the trust and confidence Vermont residents place in their government.
The appointment positions the state to secure a professional of unparalleled caliber, ultimately safeguarding our digital assets, and preserving the trust of our constituents.
Source: 4.8.2024. Montpelier, vermont.gov
