EP 17 – Highmark Health CISO on the Power of Storytelling

Too often when we think of the human element in cybersecurity it’s the insider threats. But more often it’s the hardworking protectors inside the organization who, while passionate about their jobs, would rather work to live rather than live to work. Although that reality can easily flip due to the nature of the cyber world. That’s where today’s guest Omar Khawaja, who’s been the CISO at Highmark Health for nine years, comes into the picture. As you’ll hear, Khawaja’s been on the cutting edge of cultivating talent and creating a cyber culture that empowers the human element of an organization with more than 37,000 employees. What you’ll learn: How the power of language, relationships and story can be used to effectively communicate cybersecurity strategies and best practices with partners outside of the space. And how the benefits of this can lead to better culture, retention of talent and business growth.