In the realm of data protection and cybersecurity, few have as comprehensive an understanding as Vernon Yai. With a track record that spans risk management and the formulation of cutting-edge data protection strategies, Yai has positioned himself as a leading voice in the industry. His vast experience gives him a unique perspective on safeguarding sensitive information. In this interview, he shares insights from his professional journey and offers valuable perspectives on cybersecurity and privacy protection.
Can you describe your early interest in technology and how it developed throughout your career?
My journey into technology started accidentally while I was deeply engaged in college football. I realized I wasn’t heading to the NFL, so I had to pivot. From a young age, I aspired to join the Secret Service, inspired by a family friend’s career. This ambition led me to join the Army, where I could combine technology with my career goals. There, I discovered my passion for technology and digital forensics, which has been central to my career ever since.
What inspired your decision to join the US Army, and how did it align with your goal of working for the Secret Service?
Joining the Army was a strategic decision influenced by advice from a family friend in the Secret Service. He emphasized the importance of military experience in pursuing my dream to work in the Secret Service. This move was fundamental as it provided me with unique skills and discipline, both of which were essential to later achieving my goal.
How did your role in the Army prepare you for your work in the Electronic Crimes Special Agent Program?
My time in the Army was invaluable, especially as a CID special agent where I engaged with forensic investigations. The experience honed my attention to detail and familiarity with digital evidence, making my transition to the Electronic Crimes Special Agent Program a natural progression. It laid a strong foundation for handling complex cyber investigations later in my career.
In the Secret Service, what specific skills did you develop while examining digital evidence?
While with the Secret Service, I refined my ability to analyze digital evidence critically. Working in the forensic lab was fundamental in supporting criminal investigations. The meticulous nature of the work taught me to dissect data, connect dots across different evidence types, and most importantly, translate findings into actionable insights for prosecutorial teams.
Can you discuss the investigations you participated in, particularly the high-profile cases like the one involving Albert Gonzalez?
Being part of the investigation involving Albert Gonzalez was a whirlwind of both challenge and opportunity. It was an unplanned involvement, answering a phone call that thrust me into a high-stakes situation. The case was significant due to its scale and complexity, and it reinforced the importance of comprehensive digital forensics in prosecuting cybercriminals.
What prompted your transition from the Secret Service to the private sector, and how did your wife’s diagnosis influence your decision?
The decision to shift to the private sector was difficult. My wife’s cancer diagnosis was a wake-up call; it necessitated a lifestyle change to ensure stability and family support. This personal challenge encouraged me to pursue opportunities that allowed me to be more present at home while still drawing on my professional skills.
How did your first role in the private sector at Walmart come about, and what challenges did you face in that transition?
Moving to Walmart was facilitated by connections with former colleagues. The transition was daunting; the corporate environment required a different mindset and approach, particularly in communicating risks and technical issues in a business context. Bridging that gap was crucial to my success in this new setting.
What was essential in translating your technical skills from the government to suit the business needs of private companies?
Translating technical skills involved learning the language of business. It was crucial to communicate cybersecurity and technical concepts in a way that resonated with business leaders. Building this bridge was essential to drive initiatives and innovations that aligned with organizational goals and enhanced security postures.
How did you come to take up your first CISO position, and what factors influenced your decision to join Costco?
My entry into the CISO role at Costco was unexpected yet timely. Initially consulting on candidate selections, I realized the transformation opportunity present at Costco was rare. Their commitment to changing their cyber practice and the chance to be part of a significant brand drew me in, despite initially thinking the CISO role wasn’t for me.
What are some of the key differences you noticed in the CISO role over your career concerning its business impact and recognition within the C-suite?
The evolution of the CISO role has been noticeable throughout my career. Early on, CISOs were more tactical, but now the role is truly integrated into executive strategy. This shift to a business-focused role has been vital in gaining recognition within the C-suite and ensuring cybersecurity aligns with business objectives.
Can you elaborate on how your CISO experience helped you in your current role at Axonius?
My CISO experience endowed me with a multifaceted view of cybersecurity challenges and customer needs. At Axonius, I’ve applied this knowledge to engage with customers effectively, inform product development, and represent our company in the marketplace. Each of these elements is rooted in my firsthand experience as a CISO.
What recurring concerns do you hear from other CISOs, particularly in building cyber-resilient organizations?
A major concern among CISOs is shifting the organizational mindset from prevention to resilience. The focus is on preparing for inevitable breaches and ensuring systems are robust enough to recover quickly. Educating stakeholders about this approach is vital to creating elastic and resilient business infrastructures.
How are CISOs addressing talent acquisition and retention amid budget constraints?
CISOs are navigating talent acquisition challenges by focusing on developing internal talent and creating adaptable teams. Amid budget constraints, many CISOs are innovating strategies to retain skilled professionals and ensure teams can perform efficiently under tighter financial conditions.
What impact might budget cuts to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) have on CISOs, and what do they hope will remain unchanged?
Budget cuts to CISA are troubling for many CISOs. While CISOs largely maintain self-sufficiency, they value public-private partnerships and information sharing. Continuing these elements is crucial, irrespective of budgetary constraints, to protect critical infrastructure and maintain security standards.
Could you share some insights into how you balance your responsibilities related to customer feedback, product development, and market representation in your current role?
Balancing these responsibilities involves maintaining open communication channels with customers, actively collaborating with product development teams, and consistently communicating our vision and capabilities to the market. This dynamic exchange ensures that we remain innovative, customer-focused, and ahead of industry demands.
Do you have any advice for our readers?
Stay curious, and never underestimate the power of cross-disciplinary learning. Whether transitioning between sectors or roles, the ability to adapt and translate your skills to newfound environments is invaluable. Additionally, keep building relationships—they are often the bridge to opportunities you haven’t yet considered.
