Theresa Payton: AI Strategist

  • 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.

Travel & Fee Range:**

  • 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 […]

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

Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

Theresa Payton

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

Talent resources available for download

In order to view the below you must be logged in.

  • Powerpoint Slide – For meeting and event planners
  • Gallery Images
  • High Resolution Images
  • PDF Files
  • Books and Magazine Links
  • Music List
  • Podcast Shows
  • Courses
  • + more

View further speakers

  • (30)
Rohit Talwar

Rohit Talwar is a global futurist, award-winning and thought-provoking speaker, strategic advisor, author, entrepreneur, and the CEO of Fast Future. He delivers keynote speeches, executive education, consultancy, research, and future-focused leadership mentoring to clients internationally. He works with major corporations, governments, professional services, investors, associations, business schools, and NGOs to help them anticipate, prepare for […]

  • Travels from: London, UK
  • Futurists Speakers
  • (45)
  • (7)

As the former Head of Innovation and Creativity at The Walt Disney Company, Duncan Wardle is a globally recognized expert in creative leadership and innovation. His extensive experience at one of the world’s most iconic brands has earned him a reputation as a thought leader in fostering a culture of innovation, design thinking, and disruptive […]

  • Travels from: Orlando, FL
  • Innovation Speakers
  • (40)
John Kippen 6

John Kippen is a Magician , Mentalist , Corporate Speaker and a master storyteller. He not only entertains, but inspires audiences. John suffered partial facial paralysis after a successful brain tumor removal surgery in 2002. He demonstrates how performing Magic allowed him to regain his self confidence after his surgery. As you watch him perform, […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (28)
Rachel Rodgers

Rachel Rodgers is the visionary force behind Hello Seven, a thriving enterprise dedicated to empowering women to redefine their relationship with money. As the founder of this multi-million dollar company, Rachel has emerged as a prominent figure in the realm of entrepreneurship and financial empowerment. Her accolades extend beyond the business world, as she has […]

  • Travels from: Greensboro, NC
  • Business Speakers
  • (48)
Chris Steely

As a top rated business facilitator, NCAA national rowing champion, U.S. Marine Corps Officer, corporate vice-president, business owner, MBA, world traveler, inspirational author, renowned global business coach, and devoted husband, Chris Steely has a vast array of life and leadership experience. As the Director of Coaching for the world’s top business coaching company, Chris has […]

  • Travels from: San Diego, CA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (39)
  • (2)
Clint Pulver

Clint Pulver is an award-winning keynote speaker, author, and mentor, renowned for his dynamic and impactful presentations that inspire organizations to retain, engage, and lead their people more effectively. With a message that blends storytelling, humor, and real-world research, Clint is not only a motivational speaker but a workplace advocate, addressing critical issues in employee […]

  • Travels from: Pleasant Grove, UT
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (21)
Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P Henson is a powerhouse in Hollywood and beyond, known not only for her award-winning performances but also for her remarkable work as a mental health advocate and social activist. A celebrated actress with roles in acclaimed films like Hidden Figures and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Henson has used her platform to […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Celebrity Speakers
  • (41)
  • (3)

Commander Rorke Denver is a distinguished figure in the realm of military leadership, renowned for his extensive experience and remarkable achievements in the U.S. Navy SEALs. With a career spanning numerous continents and high-stakes missions, he embodies the epitome of courage, resilience, and strategic prowess. As a speaker, Commander Denver brings forth a wealth of […]

  • Travels from: Denver, CO
  • Motivational Speakers
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2025.  Designed using Voxel