Theresa Payton: AI Strategist

Highlights:
  • First female Chief Information Officer at the White House​s
  • Founder and CEO of Fortalice Solutions​
  • Author of “Manipulated: Inside the Cyberwar to Hijack Elections and Distort the Truth”​cyber-security
  • She’s recognized as one of the world’s top advisors on secured digital transformation, AI and privacy, consulting Fortune 500 boards, CEOs, and
  • technology executives to safeguard critical assets and navigate complex digital challenges.

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  • Travels from: Charlotte, North Carolina
  • **Fee range: $20,001 - $35,000

Keynote Topics

Navigating the Promise and Perils of Artificial Intelligence

Few technological developments of the last century have fueled as much curiosity, misinformation and fear as AI. In this highly-engaging, jargon-free presentation, Theresa unpacks AI’s transformative power while exposing its looming risks, then demonstrates how our businesses, security and individual daily lives are being impacted by them.

With anonymized stories from law enforcement’s front lines and stunning live demonstrations that reveal the tradecraft of modern cybercriminals, Theresa will equip you with practical actions to harness AI’s vast potential while protecting yourself, your clients and your organization. 

Innovating Without Compromising Trust

Balancing innovation and security in a rapidly evolving digital world requires know-how, sensitivity and constant vigilance. From streamlining operations to enhancing customer experiences, Theresa shares strategies for driving transformation while safeguarding your organization’s critical assets.

With compelling case studies and easily-understood, actionable takeaways, Theresa will show you how to future-proof your organization and lead confidently in the age of relentless cyber threats. 

Thriving in Every Role

Theresa shares her amazing journey of faith, resilience, and determination as a business professional, wife and mom of three that led her to the most visible position in the tech world, White House CIO. And that’s before she became a CEO, one of the media world’s leading voices on technology and cybersecurity and star of the hit CBS TV series, “Hunted.” 

Drawing from her experiences leading in high-stakes environments, she reveals how faith and purpose have been her guiding lights in balancing family, career, and service. Theresa’s uplifting message will inspire you to lead boldly, embrace challenges with grace, and thrive in every role you’re called to fulfill.

Theresa Payton stands at the forefront of this mission, renowned as the first female Chief Information Officer (CIO) at the White House. Her pioneering efforts in cybersecurity have cemented her status as a leading authority in the field. As the founder and CEO of Fortalice Solutions, a premier cybersecurity consulting firm, Theresa combines her extensive experience with a profound commitment to protecting organizations against emerging cyber threats.

Theresa’s journey from banking executive to White House CIO showcases her dedication to technological advancement and security. Her insights into the complexities of cybercrime, coupled with her hands-on experience in both public and private sectors, make her an invaluable asset to any organization seeking to fortify its digital defenses.

Theresa Payton’s career is a testament to her expertise and leadership in cybersecurity. Before her historic appointment as the first female CIO at the White House under President George W. Bush, she honed her skills in the financial sector, holding executive roles at Bank of America and Wells Fargo. These positions allowed her to develop a deep understanding of the technological challenges and security risks inherent in large financial institutions.

In 2008, Theresa founded Fortalice Solutions, where she leads a team of cybercrime fighters dedicated to protecting businesses and governments from risk and fraud. Her firm is recognized as one of the top cybersecurity consulting companies, known for its innovative approaches to combating cyber threats.

Theresa Payton’s unique blend of frontline experience, strategic insight, and engaging communication skills makes her an exceptional choice for any event focused on cybersecurity, technology, or leadership. Her presentations are enriched with real-world anecdotes and actionable takeaways, providing audiences with a deeper understanding of the cyber landscape and practical strategies to enhance their security posture.​

Event planners can trust Theresa’s professionalism and ability to connect with diverse audiences, ensuring that her message resonates and inspires action. Her track record of successful engagements with organizations across various industries attests to her versatility and effectiveness as a speaker.​

Theresa Payton’s distinguished career, from breaking barriers as the first female White House CIO to leading a top-tier cybersecurity firm, exemplifies her commitment to protecting and advancing our digital world. Her expertise, coupled with her engaging speaking style, offers audiences invaluable insights into cybersecurity challenges and solutions. Booking Theresa for your event ensures a compelling and informative experience that will empower attendees to navigate the complexities of today’s cyber environment confidently.​

Hashtags: #Cybersecurity #Leadership #WomenInTech #DigitalTransformation #InformationSecurity

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